Eleven people died this week, including at least three from Georgia, in a tragic multi-car pileup on Interstate 75 near Gainesville, Florida.

The fatal accident occurred after a mix of thick fog and smoke from a nearby brush fire blinded drivers, reducing visibility to just a few feet. The road had been closed earlier, and was reopened just 39 minutes before the first vehicles collided.

All told, at least 12 cars, six semi-trucks and one motor home were involved in the crash.

Some victims died after their vehicles were crushed underneath the bellies of commercial trucks. Other vehicles exploded, ultimately setting most of the wreckage on fire. Many victims had to be identified using a combination of dental records and vehicle identification numbers.

Accident Puts Focus on Highway Safety

Truckers who drive through the southeastern United States are hoping to use the accident as an opportunity to remind other drivers of the need to behave safely around large trucks.

Their reminder may be necessary. Although negligent truckers do certainly exist, approximately 80 percent of fatal truck accidents are caused by the driver of a passenger vehicle.

Truckers want drivers to remember to give big rigs enough space on the highway. An 80,000 pound truck takes a long time to stop - a full 100 yards at highway speeds. Even if the trucker is being vigilant, he may not have enough time to safely avoid an accident if another vehicle comes into his lane.

Sudden stops can also cause a trailer to jackknife, making the truck more unstable and increasing the risk of a serious accident.

Truckers say some of the worst offenders are motor home and RV drivers. They wish these drivers would get some training on how to safely handle such a large vehicle before heading out on the open road.

Highway safety is everyone's responsibility. Next time you get behind the wheel, make sure you're being mindful of the other drivers on the road.

Source: Ocala Star-Banner, "In Aftermath of I-75 Tragedy, Truckers Defend Their Driving," Anthony Clark, Jan. 31, 2012.