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Truck accidents are among the most catastrophic types of vehicular crashes, often leading to severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, these collisions can have devastating consequences for victims. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Florida, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming.
A Florida truck accident attorney specializes in handling complex truck crash claims, ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Trucking companies and their insurance providers will do everything they can to minimize your claim. That’s why having a skilled lawyer on your side is crucial.
Understanding what leads to truck accidents can help you build a strong case. Below are some of the most common causes of trucking crashes in Florida:
Driver Fatigue Truck drivers often work long hours under strict deadlines, leading to exhaustion. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, many truckers exceed these limits, increasing the risk of accidents.
Distracted Driving Just like other motorists, truck drivers can become distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, or in-cabin controls, causing them to lose focus on the road.
Mechanical Failures Trucks require regular maintenance, but some companies neglect repairs to save money. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and transmission failures are common causes of accidents.
Improper Cargo Loading Overloading or improperly securing cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, leading to rollovers or cargo spills on the highway.
Speeding and Reckless Driving Some truck drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight delivery schedules, increasing stopping distances and making accidents more severe.
Poor Weather Conditions Rain, fog, and strong winds can make large trucks harder to control. Even experienced drivers can lose control when roads are slippery or visibility is reduced.
If you have been involved in a semi-truck accident in Florida, taking the right steps after the crash can significantly impact your claim. Here’s what you need to do:
Seek Medical Attention Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. A medical evaluation documents your injuries, which is crucial for your claim.
Gather Evidence If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their testimony can support your case.
Report the Accident Call law enforcement immediately. A police report provides an official record of the crash, which is essential for filing a claim.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Do not give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without speaking to a Florida truck accident attorney.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer An experienced Florida truck accident lawyer will guide you through the claims process, gather additional evidence, and negotiate with the trucking company’s insurance provider on your behalf.
Truck accident cases are complex because multiple parties may be liable for the crash. Your attorney will investigate to determine responsibility. Here are some potential defendants in a Florida truck accident lawsuit:
Truck Driver If the driver was distracted, fatigued, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they could be held responsible.
Trucking Company Employers can be liable if they failed to train their drivers properly, forced unrealistic schedules, or neglected vehicle maintenance.
Cargo Loaders If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the crash, the loading company could be responsible.
Truck Manufacturer If a defective truck part, such as faulty brakes or steering systems, caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held accountable.
Other Drivers In some cases, another motorist’s reckless behavior may have led to the truck accident.
Victims of Florida truck accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
Medical Expenses Covers hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care costs.
Lost Wages If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income and future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering Non-economic damages include emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.
Property Damage Covers vehicle repairs or replacement costs.
Punitive Damages If the truck driver or company engaged in gross negligence, such as driving under the influence or falsifying records, the court may award punitive damages.
Florida’s statute of limitations for truck accident lawsuits is typically four years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances, such as a wrongful death claim, may have different deadlines. Consulting a truck accident lawyer in Florida as soon as possible ensures you meet all legal deadlines.
Finding the best truck accident lawyer in Florida involves looking at several factors:
Experience in Truck Accident Cases Choose an attorney with a proven track record of handling semi-truck, 18-wheeler, and commercial truck accident claims.
Strong Case Results Look at past settlements and verdicts. A successful attorney should have experience securing high-value truck accident settlements.
Client Testimonials Reviews from past clients provide insight into an attorney’s communication, professionalism, and ability to win cases.
No-Win, No-Fee Guarantee Top truck accident lawyers offer contingency-based fees, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Florida Truck Accident? Settlement amounts vary based on the severity of injuries, liability, and insurance coverage. Truck accident settlements often range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars.
Can I Sue a Trucking Company for an Accident in Florida? Yes, if the trucking company was negligent in hiring, training, or maintaining their vehicles, they can be held liable.
What If the Insurance Company Offers a Low Settlement? Never accept a settlement without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies often lowball victims. A skilled attorney will negotiate for the maximum compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to take action. Our experienced Florida truck accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa today for a free consultation.
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