Living in Florida comes with its many perks — from the beautiful white sand beaches to the mild winters and fun outdoor activities. But like many other states, you’ll encounter a large number of motor vehicles on the road, and trucks are a key component. Due to their size and weight, truck accidents can be catastrophic, leading to serious injuries and significant property damage.
If you’re a motorist of any kind, it’s essential to understand Florida truck laws to ensure you’re driving safely and following all necessary laws. And if you’re a motorist involved in a truck accident, understanding how a truck accident lawyer can help is essential to ensuring your rights are protected under these laws.
In this article, we’re taking a close look at Florida truck laws, providing important information on vehicle size and weight limits, truck driver responsibilities, and the legal framework that governs commercial vehicles in the state.
Legal Definition of a Truck — What is Considered a Commercial Vehicle in Florida?
The Florida Statutes define trucks as any motor vehicle designed or used to transport goods with a net weight of over 5,000 pounds. If a truck’s weight exceeds 5,000 pounds, it’s classified as a “heavy truck” and subject to additional legal requirements. These vehicles, which include large semi-trucks and transport vehicles, are not only subject to unique laws but also higher license taxes.
Commercial vehicles, under Florida truck laws, can include everything from delivery trucks to tractor-trailers, as long as they meet certain weight and usage specifications. Understanding the classification of a vehicle is critical, as it determines the specific set of rules the driver must follow.
Key Florida Truck Laws Every Driver Should Know
Whether you’re a professional truck driver or a resident concerned about large trucks on the roads, knowing Florida truck laws can help ensure your safety and legal compliance.
1. License and Registration Requirements
In Florida, all motor vehicles, including trucks, must be registered under the name of the vehicle owner. Commercial trucks that weigh more than 26,001 pounds are required to display license plates both on the front and rear of the vehicle.
Additionally, truck drivers must carry a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), which has stricter requirements compared to regular driver’s licenses, especially when it comes to handling large commercial vehicles.
2. Size and Weight Restrictions for Trucks
Florida truck laws impose strict size and weight regulations to keep roads safe and prevent damage to infrastructure. According to Florida Statutes, Section 316.515, the following limits apply:
- Height: No truck should exceed 13 feet and 6 inches in height.
- Width: The maximum width of a truck is 102 inches, excluding safety devices like mirrors, which are allowed to extend as needed for safe operation.
- Weight: Trucks must adhere to weight limits to avoid damaging roads, bridges, and overpasses.
It’s crucial for truck operators to ensure they are within these limitations, as violations could lead to fines or other penalties.
3. Distance Between Vehicles and Following Rules
Truck drivers, along with vehicles towing another vehicle, are required to maintain a minimum following distance of at least 300 feet between their truck and the vehicle in front of them. This distance helps prevent accidents, especially in emergency situations.
Trucks and large vehicles require more time to stop, so keeping a safe distance is crucial for the safety of all drivers on the road.
4. Passing Other Vehicles
Truck drivers are only allowed to reduce the 300-foot following distance when passing another vehicle. When overtaking a vehicle, Florida truck laws permit passing only on the left side, except when there are two or more lanes in the same direction. Passing on the right is not allowed unless the lane is marked specifically for it.
This rule helps reduce the chances of accidents and ensures smoother traffic flow.
5. Truck Driving Hours and Rest Periods
Florida truck laws are strict when it comes to the hours a commercial driver can be on the road. According to Florida truck laws, truck drivers operating commercially within Florida cannot drive more than 12 consecutive hours without taking at least 10 hours off duty. This is in place to prevent fatigue, which is a significant factor in truck accidents.
Ensuring adequate rest is essential for truckers to stay alert and operate their vehicles safely.
6. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) for Truck Drivers
Florida has a stricter legal alcohol limit for truck drivers compared to other drivers. While the legal limit for regular drivers is 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC), truck drivers are held to a stricter standard. For those operating commercial vehicles, the legal limit is 0.04% BAC. This lower threshold reflects the increased risk associated with the size and weight of commercial trucks.
To avoid violations, truck drivers should consider using a breathalyzer if unsure about their BAC before getting behind the wheel.
7. DOT Inspections and Requirements for Trucks
Trucks in Florida are subject to periodic inspections conducted by the Department of Transportation (DOT). These inspections ensure that the trucks comply with safety standards and are roadworthy. The inspections focus on several critical areas, such as:
- Brakes and suspension systems
- Tires and wheels
- Lights and reflectors
- Cargo securement
- Driver logbooks and documentation
Failing a DOT inspection can lead to fines, delays, or even having the truck taken off the road until repairs are made. To prevent this, truck operators must regularly maintain their vehicles and ensure they meet all required standards.
8. Lane Restrictions for Trucks in Florida
Florida truck laws also impose certain lane restrictions on commercial vehicles. Trucks are often prohibited from traveling in the leftmost lanes of highways, especially in areas with high traffic volume. This is done to reduce congestion and allow faster-moving vehicles to pass.
In some areas, trucks must also use specific truck routes to avoid congested city streets or smaller roads that may not be suitable for large vehicles.
9. Distracted Driving and Trucking
Distracted driving is a major issue in Florida, and it’s especially dangerous when it involves large trucks. Florida truck laws are particularly strict regarding the use of mobile devices and other distractions while operating a commercial vehicle. Truck drivers are prohibited from texting while driving and must limit their use of electronic devices to essential tasks only.
Distracted driving increases the risk of accidents significantly, and it’s imperative for truck drivers to stay focused on the road at all times.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, navigating the aftermath can be complex, especially when dealing with large commercial companies and insurance policies. A truck accident lawyer who is experienced with Florida truck laws can help you in the following ways:
- Investigation of the accident: A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence to determine who is at fault, including potential violations of Florida truck laws.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Trucking companies and their insurance providers
- often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can fight for your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Legal representation in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can represent you in court, presenting your case and advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the legal complexities of a truck accident case is not easy, but an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.
Protecting Your Rights Under Florida’s Truck Laws
Understanding Florida truck laws is essential for anyone who drives a commercial vehicle or shares the road with trucks. Whether it’s knowing the weight and size restrictions, understanding the importance of DOT inspections, or being aware of distracted driving rules, staying informed can help keep Florida’s roads safer for everyone. If you’re ever involved in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to an attorney familiar with Florida truck laws to protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution.
By staying informed and following the rules set by Florida truck laws, truck drivers and other road users can contribute to a safer, more efficient driving environment across the state.
Contact Clark Hartpence Law Today for a Free Consultation
If you have been injured in a car or truck accident, meet with an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Contact Clark Hartpence Law today for a free consultation on your case. We are an experienced and knowledgeable legal team ready to support you during a difficult time.
If you or someone you love was involved in an accident, call us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.