Florida Truck Accident Attorneys

Florida Truck Accident Attorneys

The U.S. sees approximately 317,000 collisions involving 18-wheelers in a year, according to the most recent data available. Accidents involving semi-trucks create a huge risk for injury, over and above what a regular-sized vehicle poses. If you or a loved one have been involved in a tractor-trailer accident where you were not at fault, you may be entitled to compensation under Florida law.

What Does Florida Law Say About Trucks?

Trucks traveling in and out of Florida must follow federal regulations. Trucks that only travel in-state follow state regulations, which in many cases are similar to the federal regulations. An experienced Florida truck accident lawyer can determine what set of regulations apply to your case.

These regulations are important because if a truck driver or company does not comply with them and is involved in an accident, such non-compliance can be evidence of fault, which would strengthen your case.

These federal and state regulations cover aspects of the trucking industry such as:

• How many hours a driver can drive in a day and in a week
• What type of training and licenses drivers must carry
• The size of the load a tractor-trailer can carry
• Inspection and maintenance of the trucks

Causes of Truck Accidents

• Poorly maintained trucks
• Overloaded trucks
• Distracted driving
• Speeding semi-trucks
• Fatigued or sleepy drivers
• Impaired driving

As you can see some of the causes of 18-wheeler collisions share some of the same causes as car accidents. Other causes are related to trucks only.

When something goes wrong, trucks have the capacity to rollover or to jackknife. Additionally, because trucks need more distance to come to a full stop, trucks are prone to rear ending the car in front of them. All of these accidents have the capacity to seriously damage other cars, motorists, and pedestrians.

What To Do at the Scene of a Truck Accident

If you have been in an accident, you should first look for injuries and make sure you can stand up. Then, call the police, and exchange information with other drivers and witnesses. Do not discuss the accident with them or admit fault. Fault should only be determined by professionals. Taking photos and videos of the scene can be beneficial.

How a Lawyer Can Help You

Accident claims involving trucks can be very complex and there can be multiple groups liable for your injuries. The truck driver, the truck fleet owner, and insurance carriers could all be potential parties in a lawsuit. Also, truck part manufacturers of parts like brakes and tires and their insurers could be liable.

If you are in an accident that is not your fault, you will likely be entitled to several types of money damages, including:

• Medical bills you have paid so far plus any bills anticipated in the future.
• Lost wages, past and future.
• Pain and suffering.
• Money to compensate for property damage.

Many people do not know how much these types of injuries are worth in his or her case. Each case is different and requires review by experienced Florida truck accident attorneys, such as the ones listed on this site. Call one of them for a free initial consultation.