What Are Some Facts About Florida RV Accidents?

Accidents involving RVs can result in serious property damage and life-threatening injuries. An attorney can help you recover for medical bills and other damages caused by a negligent RV driver.

What Is A Recreational Vehicle (RV)?

If you’re driving in the State of Florida, chances are you will see an RV, or recreational vehicle, at some point. The definition for the term “RV” can vary based on the state you live in, but they are generally recognized as vehicles that offer some living accommodations, with conveniences like beds and appliances like stoves or air conditioners, depending on the model.  

Usually seen as tow-behind trailers or all-in-one vehicles, RVs can be fun to take along for camping and other wilderness activities. This explains their popularity across the U.S. and especially in warm-weather tourist destinations like Florida. 

RVs come in many different sizes and shapes that can range anywhere from about 10 to 40 feet long. Some common types of recreational vehicles that you can see out on Florida roads include:

• Camper vans
• Fifth wheel trailers
• Folding trailers
• Truck campers
• Motor homes (in Classes A, B, or C)
• Specialty RVs like toy haulers

There has been a surge of RV travel throughout the country in recent years. This trend may be due to younger generations discovering the benefits of buying or renting recreational vehicles while veteran campers like seniors and retirees are still going RVing as well. 

Are There Special Road Rules For RVs In Florida?

RVs can add an element of leisure to any outing, but based on their size and shape alone, you have to be careful while driving them. All RVs are required to undergo testing for rollovers and crashes under Federal law. This helps to ensure that they are safe by design. 

However, user error can make RVs a danger to others and lead to accidents and injuries. For example, drivers with little to no experience maneuvering an RV are more likely to make a mistake that results in a collision. 

Unfortunately, there are negligent drivers out there getting behind the wheels of these giant vehicles. And getting access to drive an RV is pretty easy in Florida, where there is no need to get any special training or licensing to operate one. 

Even though permits are not required in this state, people operating any kind of recreational vehicle should protect themselves and others by taking safety measures like buying insurance and driving with extra caution. No matter what RV you are driving or towing, it’s probably going to be larger than the average car, which can be difficult for some drivers. 

That’s why it’s important to allow space for clearance when reversing, changing lanes, coming to a stop, or turning an RV. Carrying out these kinds of tasks might take some maneuvering to make sure you are driving in a reasonable way.

What Are Some Common Causes of Accidents Involving RVs?

One way to lower your chances of getting into a crash is to learn about mistakes that can be easy to make while driving an RV. Some risky habits that can lead to accidents in these kinds of vehicles include: 

Speeding: going too fast can lower your ability to react to prevent an accident, especially in bad weather. Also, any vehicle at the height of around 10 feet will be targeted by winds that create a risk of rollover. At a lower speed, you have more control to withstand that kind of force. 

Driving drowsy and/or distracted: RVs are known for being able to cross huge distances. Many travelers will take them on road trips, which can mean long hours for drivers. Never get behind the wheel of an RV or hauling vehicle if you are sleepy or have to use your phone. It’s not worth the risk of an accident.

Drunk/Drugged driving: it’s not a good idea to operate something the size of an RV when you’re impaired. 

Sharp turns: RV drivers usually have to adjust for broad turns to accommodate the width of campers or trailers. A miscalculation while turning could be dangerous. 

Braking: it’s best to give yourself extra distance for braking to bring an RV to a complete stop. Failing to do this can force you to slam on the brakes, or worse, cause a rear end accident by hitting the car in front of you.

What Injuries Can Come From RV Crashes?

Getting into an accident with an RV can be an extremely traumatic and damaging event. If you were in an RV crash, you may have been left with serious injuries, like:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Neck or back injury, or
• Broken bones.

If you believe you may have been hurt in a collision, it is vital to visit a doctor right away. This medical visit will protect you and your chance to file an injury claim later, if you decide to do so. An experienced personal injury attorney can help guide you through these steps to maximize your compensation for treatment and other expenses. 

Where To Get Legal Help After An RV Collision

The aftermath of an RV collision can bring up some really difficult and emotional issues for anyone. Many victims of these accidents have come to us suffering from serious injuries and dealing with a lot of life challenges. 

We have experience securing fair compensation for people who have been hurt or lost loved-ones because of the negligence of others. Call Personal Injury Attorney Martin Hernandez at 813.755.9500 or go to our homepage for your free attorney consultation.