Collier County Trucking Accidents – What to Do If You’re a Victim

Understanding Truck Crash Risks in Collier County & Southwest Florida

Collier County sees a significant share of trucking accidents each year, driven by heavy freight routes along I‑75, U.S. 41, and industrial corridors feeding the Port of Miami and Southwest Florida International Airport. In 2024, Collier County had 6,254 crashes overall, resulting in 3,605 injuries—many involving large trucks and commercial vehicles. These crashes reflect a broader regional pattern across Southwest Florida: combined crashes in Lee and Collier Counties exceeded 20,000 in 2024.

Fatal crashes in Collier County rose 12.8 % between 2018 and 2022, particularly on I‑75 and U.S. 41, underscoring the significant peril posed by tractor‑trailers on high‑speed roadways.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Southwest Florida

Driver Fatigue & Long Hours

Truckers facing tight schedules may drive while fatigued. Fatigue delays reaction time and often plays a major role in collisions.

Distracted or Impaired Driving

Use of phones, GPS devices, or drowsiness impairs focus. Impaired driving—including substance use—is also a notable factor.

Mechanical Failures & Poor Maintenance

Brake failures, worn tires, and suspension issues can lead to loss of control, especially with heavy loads.

Weather & Road Conditions

Heavy rainstorms, slippery roads, and construction zones in Southwest Florida frequently contribute to multi-vehicle crashes—including pile‑ups—when drivers can’t stop in time.

Unsafe Maneuvers & Speeding

Tailgating, improper lane changes, and speeding are typical risks, particularly on busy highways like I‑75 and U.S. 41.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Truck Crash

1. Prioritize Your Health

Call 911 immediately if there's any injury. Even seemingly minor injuries should be evaluated—internal trauma or soft tissue damage may surface later.

2. Document the Scene

Take photos of the vehicles, skid marks, weather conditions, damage to your vehicle, road signage, and visible injuries. This visual evidence is critical in truck accident injury claims.

3. Secure Witness Contacts

Speak to anyone who saw the accident and collect names and contact information—they can be invaluable for statements later.

4. Report the Crash

If safe, move off the road and report the incident to law enforcement. Request a copy of the accident report—this official documentation helps your claim.

5. Preserve Evidence

Keep all documents related to the crash: medical records, repair bills, correspondence with insurers, and any surveillance footage.

6. Avoid Early Settlement Offers

Insurance companies may rush to settle—don’t sign anything or accept any offer before consulting legal counsel.

7. Contact a Qualified Southwest Florida Truck Accident Lawyer

Engaging experienced representation early can help protect your rights, gather sufficient evidence, and ensure responsible parties are properly identified.

Legal Support from Pittman Law Firm, P.L.

Pittman Law Firm, P.L. specializes in truck accident and personal injury law throughout Southwest Florida—serving Collier County, Lee County, Charlotte County, and Naples. With offices in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, they offer legal representation across all counties of Southwest Florida, including Naples, Collier County, and beyond.

The firm brings deep familiarity with Florida’s highways, including high‑risk routes like I‑75 and U.S. 41, and understands the complex liability issues involved in commercial vehicle and trucking accident cases. Their attorneys assist victims with:

• Investigating truck operator records and maintenance logs
• Reconstructing multi‑vehicle chain collisions
• Negotiating with insurers, trucking companies, and regulators
• Pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death where applicable

Pittman Law Firm, P.L. provides free case consultation and operates on a no‑fee‑unless‑we‑win basis. Clients benefit from direct access to attorneys—not paralegals or case workers—ensuring attentive and tailored guidance.

Truck Crash Trends & Statistics for Collier County & Southwest Florida

• In 2024, Collier County reported 6,254 total crashes, with 3,605 injuries. This mirrors a sharp rise in accidents across Southwest Florida.
• Fatal crashes in Collier increased 12.8 % from 2018 to 2022, especially on I‑75 and US‑41 corridors.
• Region‑wide, Lee and Collier Counties together saw over 20,000 traffic crashes in 2024, illustrating the scope of risk to motorists and commercial drivers alike.
• Florida statewide trends show rising fatalities despite some recent decreases, with 2024 totaling 2,423 fatal accidents and 2,589 deaths, and 214,197 injured statewide.

These figures highlight why legal representation is essential when truck drivers, carriers, or related parties may be liable.

Why Collier County Victims Should Act Quickly

Time is of the essence after a trucking accident. Evidence degrades, memory fades, and the firm’s ability to interview witnesses or access professional records diminishes. Immediate action allows Pittman Law Firm, P.L. to lock in key evidence, advocate forcefully with insurers and trucking firms, and assert your rights within statutory timelines.

Contact Pittman Law Firm, P.L. – Serving All Southwest Florida Counties

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck or commercial vehicle crash in Collier County, Naples, Lee County, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, reach out to Pittman Law Firm, P.L. Their Naples, Fort Myers, and Bonita Springs offices are ready to help you secure justice and compensation for medical expenses, lost income, ongoing care, property damage, and more.