Commercial truck accidents are unfortunately common in Florida. According to 2022 statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation, 9,824 commercial truck accidents in Florida resulted in 3,397 injuries and 303 fatalities. Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be complex, and having legal representation can significantly enhance your chances of a fair and just outcome.
At Williams Law, P.A., we specialize in handling complex semi-truck accident cases. Our lawyers understand the unique challenges associated with these accidents, including federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry. We are familiar with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, state laws, and industry standards that may apply to your case.
Why Hire a Florida Semi-Truck or Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer?
If you've been involved in an accident with a semi-truck in Florida, hiring a lawyer can be crucial for several reasons:
Complexity of Trucking Regulations
Semi-trucks are subject to numerous federal and state regulations that govern their operation. An experienced truck accident attorney is familiar with these regulations and can assess whether any violations occurred, which may contribute to establishing liability.
Thorough Investigation
Truck accidents often require extensive investigation to gather evidence, such as accident reports, driver logs, maintenance records, and data from the truck's black. This technology may include:
- Dashcams
- GPS tracking
- On-board diagnostic sensors
The trucking company will have its investigators on the scene gathering evidence within hours. You will need your team of experts at the location to gather evidence and perform due diligence.
Determining Liability
Establishing liability in a truck accident can be challenging. Our lawyers can help identify responsible parties, including truck drivers, trucking companies, maintenance contractors, or manufacturers. Determining liability is crucial for seeking compensation. A commercial vehicle crash is much more complicated than when two ordinary vehicles collide.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies representing trucking companies are often well-equipped with legal teams to protect their interests. Our lawyers specialize in personal injury law and insurance, which levels the playing field. We handle all communication, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you are not pressured into accepting an inadequate settlement.
Maximizing Compensation
Truck accidents can result in severe injuries and substantial damage. If you were involved in a truck accident that caused severe injuries, our Florida truck accident lawyers assess all the factors and work to get the insurance company to compensate you for:
- Medical bills or expenses
- Future medical costs
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Lost wages and future lost income from an incapacity to work.
- Wrongful death
How Liability Works in Florida Semi-Truck and Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases
Truck driver negligence occurs when truck drivers breach this duty of care, fail to protect other drivers on the road, and this failure cause an accident. Truck drivers are held to high standards of liability put forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Florida Highway Patrol Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement. This is because truck accidents have a high risk of property damage, serious injuries, and fatalities.
Florida Modified Comparative Negligence
Governor Ron DeSantis enacted HB 837, Florida’s approach to shared fault in personal injury claims underwent a significant transformation. With the comparative negligence system, you won't qualify for compensation if you bear more than 50% of the blame for the accident. If your fault is determined to be 50% or less, you can still claim damages. However, your compensation will reduce proportionally to your fault percentage.
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Economic Damages: These are quantifiable losses, encompassing medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and other tangible expenses from the accident.
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Non-Economic Damages: More intangible; these cover emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and other similar non-monetary adversities.
If you've been involved in a truck accident in Florida, the road to recovery can be challenging. Our truck accident lawyers can be your advocate, helping you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don't face the complexities of a truck accident case alone – seek the assistance of our insurance lawyers to ensure your rights are protected and justice is served.
In Semi-Truck Accidents, Damages Are Often Much More Serious
Accidents involving 18-wheelers have the potential to cause catastrophic injury and death. Moreover, the value of truck accident cases varies depending on the extent of the injuries and the amount of property damage incurred due to the crash. Semi-tuck accidents often result in more severe damage than accidents involving smaller vehicles.
Size and Weight Disparities: Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. The sheer size and weight of trucks can lead to catastrophic damage in a collision with smaller vehicles. The impact force is much greater, resulting in more severe injuries and property damage.
Inertia and Momentum: The laws of physics dictate that objects in motion tend to stay in motion. Trucks, due to their mass, have substantial inertia and momentum. When a car collides, its energy can cause extensive damage to vehicles and the occupants.
Stopping Distance: Trucks require much longer distances than smaller vehicles to come to a complete stop. The consequences can be devastating if a truck driver cannot stop in time or lose control. The extended stopping distance can lead to more severe collisions.
Cargo and Hazmat Materials: Trucks often transport large quantities of freight, which can pose additional risks in an accident. Depending on the nature of the load, such as hazardous materials or heavy goods, the potential for more severe consequences increases.
Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road and demanding schedules can contribute to driver fatigue among truck drivers. Exhaustion impairs reaction times and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of accidents and making the consequences more severe.
Complex Maneuverability: Trucks have limited maneuverability compared to smaller vehicles. Negotiating turns, changing lanes, and reacting to sudden obstacles can be more challenging for truck drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Highways and Speeds: Trucks often travel on roads at higher speeds, and accidents at higher rates tend to result in more severe injuries and damages. The combination of speed and the size of the vehicles involved can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Multiple Impact Points: Due to their length and difficulty maneuvering, trucks may be involved in collisions with various vehicles. This increases the potential for widespread damage and injuries.
Have You Been Injured In Florida Truck Accident? Williams Law, P.A. Is Here To Help.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Florida truck accident, you should speak with an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Florida law office at 800.451.6786 to schedule your free consultation. We help Florida residents like you who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, slip and fall, or other accident resulting in an injury. Remember, we work on a contingent basis, meaning you don't pay us anything until we win your case.
