West-Central Florida’s Truck Accident Lawyers
In Florida, the bustling roadways witness an alarming number of accidents each year. Large semi trucks, crucial for transporting goods, often play a role in these incidents. At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, in Clearwater, our dedicated team of truck accident lawyers is committed to advocating for the rights of victims who have suffered injuries in these catastrophic events.
What To Know About Trucking Accidents In Florida
Trucking accidents, while sharing similarities with regular car accidents, pose unique challenges due to the involvement of large vehicles. Over a recent five-year period, Florida saw over 1,300 truck accident fatalities. When these accidents involve massive trucks colliding with smaller vehicles, the consequences can be devastating.
Trucking Companies’ Responsibility
Trucking companies bear a significant responsibility for the safety of their drivers and compliance with regulations. Truck drivers undergo special training and licensing to operate these substantial vehicles safely. Despite these precautions, accidents can occur due to driver negligence, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Injuries Resulting From Truck Accidents
If you find yourself injured in a trucking accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation from a personal injury attorney immediately. Trucking companies and their insurance companies invest substantial resources to protect their interests, often dispatching representatives or attorneys to the accident scene. Their swift action aims to build a narrative in favor of the trucking company, potentially compromising your claim for compensation for your medical bills, property damage and other costs.
Importance Of Swift Legal Action
The quicker you consult with a truck accident attorney, the better your chances of countering the narrative crafted by the trucking company. Your attorney can secure crucial evidence, investigate the crash and build a compelling case on your behalf. Delaying legal action may result in the destruction or loss of crucial evidence, making it more challenging to present your case effectively or obtain maximum compensation.
The statute of limitations on truck accident claims is something else you must keep in mind. Essentially, a statute of limitations is a time limit on how long you can wait before filing a lawsuit. In Florida, the statute of limitations on truck accident claims generally is four years, starting from the date of the crash. If you try to file suit after the time limit tolls, the court will likely be forced to dismiss it, no matter how much the evidence is on your side.
Legal And Regulatory Guidelines
Trucking companies operate within Florida’s strict legal and regulatory guidelines and across state lines. Failure to adhere to these regulations can contribute to accidents. If a trucking company’s negligence in following these laws led to your injuries, it is essential to hold them accountable.
What Are Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Florida?
Truck accidents can result from various factors, including:
- Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s judgment and reaction time.
- Speeding: Excessive speed, especially given the size of commercial trucks, contributes to accidents.
- Distracted driving: Distractions, such as phone use, can lead to hazardous situations on the road.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a significant risk.
- Poorly maintained trucks: Neglected maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, contributing to accidents.
Understanding these common causes is crucial for assessing liability in truck accident claims.
What Makes Tractor-Trailer Accidents More Dangerous Than Car Accidents?
The sheer size and power of 18-wheelers can lead them to cause much more harm than the average passenger vehicle. A semi truck can weigh up to 80,000 lbs. fully loaded. The power needed to get such a huge vehicle up to highway speeds can cause terrible damage if the driver acts negligently. Thus, a collision with a semi truck is more likely to cause traumatic brain injuries and other lifelong disabilities, as well as fatal injuries. There is also the risk of getting caught beneath the truck’s trailer, which is not a factor in a collision with a car, pickup truck or SUV.
What Laws And Regulations Specific To The Trucking Industry May Play A Role In Your Case?
The trucking industry operates under specific laws and regulations that may impact your case. These include:
- Hours of service regulations: Limiting a driver’s time on the road to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
- Weight limits: Ensuring trucks adhere to weight restrictions to prevent accidents caused by overloading.
- Maintenance requirements: Mandating regular maintenance to prevent mechanical failures leading to accidents.
Understanding these regulations is vital for evaluating the trucking company’s compliance and determining liability.
Do You Need To Speak To The Semi Truck Driver’s Insurance Company After An Accident?
A claims adjuster from the insurance company will likely contact you soon after your accident and try to pressure you into accepting a settlement offer far below what you deserve. This is a common practice for dealing with personal injury claims.
Fortunately, your attorney can handle all communication with the insurance provider on your behalf. Our personal injury lawyers know the law and all the insurance industry’s tricks. We will explain what you are entitled to in compensation, negotiate with the insurance company and let you focus on healing from your injuries.
What Damages Can You Recover In A Florida Truck Accident?
Florida law allows you to seek compensation for several types of claims, which are broadly grouped into two categories: economic damages and noneconomic damages.
Economic damages include direct financial losses caused by the truck driver’s negligence, such as your medical expenses, lost past and future wages, and the cost of adapting your home to accommodate your disability. Noneconomic damages refer to things that are more complicated to put a dollar figure on, such as your pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
Another category, punitive damages, are rarely awarded. They exist to punish the defendant for gross negligence or intentionally harming you.
How Can A Truck Accident Attorney Help With Your Case?
Navigating the complexities of a truck accident case requires the experience of a seasoned legal team at a respected personal injury law firm. At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, our attorneys offer:
- In-depth investigation: Scrutinizing the accident details to uncover evidence crucial to your case.
- Experience in trucking industry regulations: Utilizing knowledge of industry-specific laws and regulations to establish liability.
- Aggressive advocacy: Pursuing justice and fair compensation on behalf of truck accident victims.
Reach Out To Us For Proven Legal Representation In Clearwater, St. Pete, Tampa And Throughout Florida
If you or a loved one has been involved in a Florida trucking accident, call 727-222-1570 or contact us online immediately. We are here to evaluate your case, secure evidence, and build a robust legal strategy to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.