Palm Bay Truck Accident Lawyers

The commercial trucking industry is an integral part of Florida's economy. Our area experiences heavy truck traffic. Commercial drivers use Palm Bay's north/south corridors as they travel across the state. Unfortunately, truck accidents often cause severe and catastrophic injuries due to their size. The law might entitle you to a settlement if you sustained injuries in a truck accident. This compensation could pay for your medical bills, lost income, car repair or replacement, and other damages. Protect your legal rights and fight out how much your injuries are worth. Contact a Palm Bay truck accident lawyer at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA, today to schedule your free consultation.

Why choose Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA?

We know there are numerous personal injury law firms in the Palm Bay area. You have likely seen their billboards or ads. Why choose us? Our experience, compassion, and resources set us apart.

We know firsthand what life is like after a car accident.

Our firm's founding partner, Matthew Dolman, was just a teenager when his father was in a severe car accident. Matthew's father chose his attorney based on a magazine advertisement. He unknowingly hired a settlement mill that was not interested in his well-being. The firm's goal was to process his case as fast as possible to earn a quick buck. Matthew never forgot how it felt for his family to be on the receiving end of this poor treatment. He is devoted his professional career to providing competent, caring, and responsive legal services to accident victims like you. Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, is a team of Palm Bay personal injury attorneys who are not afraid of litigation. Our pursuit is maximum compensation for you, not a fast dollar for us.

We connect you with medical care if you cannot afford to see a doctor.

Many Florida residents have high deductibles or do not have any health insurance at all. You cannot get better if finances are a roadblock to medical treatment. We can refer you to a nationwide network of doctors who can treat your truck accident injuries. These doctors do not require any upfront payments. They collect their fees out of your settlement. You can get on the path to recovery without going broke.

We have financial resources that many other firms do not.

Litigation and lengthy negotiations cost money for both sides of a legal case. Our attorneys can play the long game with insurance companies. We will not push you to accept an inadequate settlement because our firm has run out of resources. Insurance companies hate spending money. We put pressure on them and do not back off until they agree to maximum compensation for your injuries. And if that means going to trial, we will.

Do not miss the deadline to file your Palm Bay truck accident injury claim

If you want to pursue a truck accident settlement in Palm Bay, you have a limited time. According to Florida Statute § 95.11, you have four years from the date of your accident to take legal action. The court will likely refuse your claim after this deadline. It is never too early to contact a truck accident lawyer. Seek emergency medical treatment for your injuries, then call us—most forms of evidence fade over time. The sooner our personal injyr lawyers start working on your case, the stronger your claim will be.

You cannot trust the insurance company to do the right thing

Insurance companies do not prioritize your well-being, no matter how caring or concerned they seem. Never forget that insurance companies are for-profit businesses, not charities. If the insurance company has already reached out with an offer, it is not because they are generous. They want you to accept an offer before you can talk to an attorney. Why? Because once you accept an insurance payout, you typically forfeit your right to pursue more money in the future. The payout they voluntarily offer you will not cover all of your expenses. And the law likely entitles you to much more. A year from now, you will have unpaid bills and lost wages but no legal recourse. An adequate settlement takes negotiation and sometimes litigation. Find out how much your injuries are worth by scheduling your free consultation with Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA.

Our Palm Bay truck accident lawyers are not afraid of litigation

Our firm is not a settlement mill. We do not process a high volume of cases for the sole purpose of fast settlements. We value personal attention and seeking the best possible outcome for your case. Personal injury law typically allows you one chance to pursue compensation. We know that there are numerous other Palm Bay truck accident lawyers who want your business. Hiring us is your choice and a responsibility we take seriously. From the day you hire us, we prepare your case as if it will go to trial. We do not cut corners to save time. Nor will we push you to accept an inadequate settlement because we do not want to deal with a court trial. Our case results show how we have fought hard for our past clients.

We stand up to local and national trucking companies

Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA, takes on cases against Palm Bay area businesses and national trucking companies. Were any of these transportation businesses involved in your accident?

Brevard County, Florida area trucking companies

• Refrigerated Express
• Pro Load Movers
• Stray Cat Enterprises, Inc
• RJB Enterprise, LLC
• Bascones Trucking, LLC

Nationwide transportation companies

• Schneider
• Amazon Freight
• FedEx Freight
• Old Dominion Freight Line
• XPO Logistics

We can represent you whether a one-person trucking company or a nationwide transportation business caused your injuries. Regardless of their local presence or national affiliation, we will not let any trucking company bully or intimidate you.

Common truck accident sites in Palm Bay, Florida

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA, we know that a truck accident can happen anywhere, at any time. We are prepared to handle your case no matter where it occurred in the Palm Bay area. Florida Today recently covered the area's top crash sites. These roadways and intersections have a history of numerous and severe accidents.

Dangerous intersections in Palm Bay, Florida

• Malabar Road and Emerson Drive
• Babcock Street and Palm Bay Road
• Malabar Road and Babcock Street

Dangerous stretches of road in the Palm Bay area

• Babcock Street from Palm Bay Road to U.S. 192 in Melbourne-Palm Bay
• Palm Bay Road from Minton Road to Hollywood Boulevard in West Melbourne-Palm Bay
• U.S. 1 from the Indian River County line to Malabar Road in Palm Bay
• Babcock Street from Malabar Road to Palm Bay Road in Palm Bay

Truck accidents also occur along Interstate I-95 and U.S. Highway 1, the region's major north/south corridors. These two roads receive heavy tourist and commercial truck traffic.

Contributing factors in Palm Bay truck accidents

Truck accidents can happen anywhere in Palm Bay, day or night. However, certain factors can increase the odds of a crash.

Vehicle size differences

The sheer size difference between a large truck and a passenger vehicle can cause serious bodily injuries and property damage. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), several factors contribute to commercial truck crashes.

• Loaded trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times as much as a passenger vehicle. Their large size increases the chances of severe and even fatal injuries.
• Semi truck operators must consider their vehicle's size when merging and switching lanes. Trucks with large ground clearances can “suck” smaller passenger vehicles underneath the truck.
• Tailgating truck drivers do not allow their vehicles enough room to stop. Some drivers do not consider that their trucks may accelerate when driving downhill.
• Truck drivers must slow down around corners and exit/entrance ramps. Large semis have a higher center of gravity than passenger cars and may tip over easier.

Driving a commercial truck requires proper training and adhering to safety standards.

Inclement weather

Florida's inclement weather, such as a hurricane or tropical storm, can cause a crash. Operating a commercial truck or semi in a storm is unlike driving a passenger vehicle.

• Strong winds can cause a large truck to sway side to side.
• Heavy rains and slippery roads increase the distance a truck needs to come to a complete stop.

Truck drivers must pull over when the weather makes it unsafe for them to drive.

Congested roadways

Congested roads can make a truck accident more likely.

• Impatient truck drivers may tailgate or not check their vehicle's blind spots before switching lanes.
• Truck drivers who have deadlines to meet may take alternate roadways unsuited for semis.

Our attorneys carefully review the details of each case. We will not let you take the blame for an accident that was not your fault.

Determining negligence in a truck accident in Palm Bay

Truck accidents are unique in that the truck driver, the trucking company, or both can be held responsible for an accident. The law may hold municipalities accountable for truck accidents caused by poor road conditions.

Truck drivers

Many truck drivers are under immense pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines. They may drive over the speed limit or too fast for weather conditions. Commercial truck drivers are not immune to distracted or fatigued driving.

Trucking companies

Trucking companies are responsible for monitoring and enforcing required rest breaks. All too often, profit comes before public safety. Trucking companies may look the other way when drivers shorten or even altogether skip their rest breaks.

Municipalities

Brevard County Public Works maintains over 1,100 miles of roadways throughout Palm Bay and the surrounding area. Potholes, missing or damaged guard rails, and faulty traffic signals can make the roads unsafe for commercial trucks.

Learn how you can afford a Palm Bay truck accident lawyer

Many people experience financial struggles after a truck accident. You cannot work, yet the bills keep coming in. Not working has already stretched your budget thin. How can you afford to hire a lawyer? We do not charge any upfront fees at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA. If you decide to hire us to represent you, we will enter into a contingency fee agreement. If we agree to handle your case, our fees will come out of your settlement. If we do not secure a settlement for you, you will not pay any attorney fees. We can further discuss our payment schedule and other associated costs at your free consultation.

Palm Bay truck accident damages: An overview

Florida law allows you to pursue compensation for your accident-related damages. The law categorizes these damages as economic or non-economic. An accurate assessment of these damages is needed to calculate an adequate settlement.

Economic damages in a Palm Bay truck accident

Economic damages are tangible and have an associated price tag. These costs quickly increase, and the negligent party should pay for them. Current medical expenses

• Ambulance ride
• ER visit
• Hospital stay
• Diagnostic tests (X-rays, CT scans)
• Surgery
• Mobility aids (wheelchair, walker, cane)

Future accident-related medical care

• Outpatient clinic visits
• Occupation therapy
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medication
• Surgery

Property damage

• Repair or replacement of your vehicle
• Reimbursement for damaged items in your vehicle or on your person at the time of the crash (work equipment, electronics, jewelry)

Lost income

• While you recover from your truck accident injuries
• If your injuries require you to work fewer hours or in a lower-paying position
• If you are permanently disabled and you cannot return to your job

Non-economic damages in a Palm Bay truck accident

Non-economic damages are the intangible, yet no less real, consequences of your accident. Assigning a monetary value to your emotional and psychological distress can feel uncomfortable. However, our attorneys are committed to pursuing maximum compensation on your behalf. Many truck accident victims feel a sense of closure after they receive compensation for their non-economic damages.

• Physical pain
• Emotional suffering
• Loss of enjoyment due to an inability to pursue hobbies or take part in family life
• Loss of companionship for your spouse
• Loss of guidance for your minor children or other dependents

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), crashes commonly cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals who experience PTSD may experience difficulty sleeping, mood swings, anxiety, and depression. They may want to avoid being in a car or feel anxious when they see a commercial truck. We can help you seek compensation for your PTSD symptoms.

Palm Bay Truck Accident Lawyer FAQs

Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about truck accident injury claims. To get answers about your specific case, please contact us to schedule a free consultation.

How can I find out if I have a valid legal case?

The only way to know if you are eligible to pursue a settlement is to consult with a truck accident attorney. We offer free consultations to all prospective clients. We will review the details of your case, then let you know your legal options. You are under no obligation to hire us or pursue a lawsuit.

How much does a Palm Bay truck accident lawyer cost?

Our founding partner, Matthew Dolman, remembers what it was like after a car accident injured his father. Money is often tight after an accident. You cannot work while you recover from your injuries. We believe everyone should have access to competent legal representation, regardless of their ability to pay upfront attorney fees. It costs you nothing to have our lawyers get started on your case. We collect our attorney fees after we secure a settlement on your behalf. That amount is typically a predetermined percentage of your settlement. If we do not win your case, you will not owe our firm any attorney fees. We can further discuss our payment schedule and other possible fees at your free consultation.

Why do I need an attorney for my truck accident claim?

Never represent yourself. First, the insurance company may blame you for the accident. You must prove otherwise on your own. Most individuals do not have the knowledge or resources to go head-to-head with the insurance company's legal team. But let's say the insurance company agrees that the accident was not your fault, and they agree to pay you a settlement. This payout is likely less than what the law entitles you to, often much less. You shortchange your financial future when you accept compensation that will not cover your future medical care and lost income. You will not have any legal recourse when you run out of money down the road. Our lawyers provide vital services to our clients. We investigate the cause of the crash, hold negligent parties responsible for their actions, and pursue adequate compensation.

Who is responsible for my truck accident injuries?

Each case is different, and we work hard to examine the evidence and facts of your truck accident. We know the insurance company or negligent party may try to blame you, even when there is evidence to prove otherwise. The law could hold several parties responsible for your crash.

The trucking company

You can hold the company be at fault if it did not follow vehicle maintenance schedules or failed to make necessary truck repairs. Transportation companies act negligently when they discourage drivers from taking required rest breaks and enforce unrealistic deadlines.

The truck driver

Truck drivers may skip required rest breaks or drive too many hours in an allotted time frame. Commercial truck operators must also report vehicle issues and not knowingly drive a truck that needs repairs. Truck drivers must avoid using roads not meant for commercial trucks and semis. Driving under the influence and distracted driving can also cause a crash.

Truck manufacturer

Faulty and defective vehicle parts can contribute to the cause of an accident. Truck manufacturers and their vendors must produce safe vehicles.

Brevard County Public Works and other municipalities

Road issues like potholes, deteriorating roadways, defective traffic lights, and poorly marked intersections can contribute to a truck accident.

How do I get a copy of the accident report?

The law enforcement agency that was called to the accident scene will have a copy of the report. Contact the Palm Bay Police Department if your accident happened within the city limits. Florida Statute § 316.066 prohibits the general public from accessing a traffic accident report during the first 60 days after the crash. However, this law does not apply to individuals involved in the crash or their legal representatives. You should obtain a copy of the accident report as soon as possible, as your insurance may require it. Our office may secure a copy for you with your permission.

What if I cannot afford to see a doctor?

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we know access to healthcare is a problem for some Palm Bay residents. We care about your recovery in all aspects of your life, medically and financially. Many people are uninsured or must pay expensive deductibles and copays. The last thing you need after a truck accident is to accrue debt. Our firm has partnered with a nationwide network of doctors who will treat you with no upfront costs. You receive the medical care you need so you can recover. Your doctors will collect their fees after you receive your settlement.

What does the law consider “negligent” behavior?

In a nutshell, negligence occurs when someone's actions or inactions cause harm to another person. Negligence in a truck accident can include:

• A truck operator texting while driving
• The transportation company penalizes drivers for not meeting unrealistic deadlines
• A truck driver getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• A manufacturer for producing defective truck parts
• The municipality for allowing roads to fall into disrepair

Our lawyers know that proving negligence is a key part of a strong personal injury claim.

How long does it take to get a truck accident settlement?

We know you needed the money yesterday. You are out of work, and your budget is tight. Settlement mills often prioritize a fast settlement. Some attorneys want a quick buck without litigation. They pocket the money and move on to the next case. We do things differently at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Attorneys, PA. We do not rush a settlement until your prognosis is known. We take the time to account for all of your accident-related damages. A truck accident case can take several months to a year or longer to conclude. Factors that can impact how long your case takes include:

• The severity of your injuries
• The overall amount of damages
• How quickly doctors can accurately determine your prognosis
• Any dispute over responsibility for the accident

A fast settlement that does not cover your damages will leave you with unpaid bills and lost wages. Your money will run out sooner rather than later, leaving you with years of medical care and lost wages that you must cover on your own.

How much is my truck accident claim worth?

The amount the insurance company wants to pay out and what your claim is truly worth are two different figures. Insurance companies do not want to spend money. They want to quickly settle your case for the absolute bare minimum. We work hard to make sure that does not happen. There is more to calculating a settlement amount than adding up your current medical bills and lost income. The law may allow you to also collect compensation for:

• Future medical care you will need for your accident-related injuries
• Lost income if you must return to work part-time or are permanently disabled
• Your pain and suffering
• How your injuries affect your spouse and minor children
• The repair or replacement of your vehicle

Our lawyers may partner with other professionals, such as medical and economic experts, to calculate your settlement amount. Once we determine a good figure, we get to work pursuing that amount for you.

What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages?

A truck accident impacts your life in many ways. You experience financial, physical, and psychological damages, which the law categorizes as economic or non-economic.

Economic damages

Economic damages are tangible and have a price tag.

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Repair or replacement of your damaged vehicle
• Compensation for your damaged personal items in your vehicle (electronics, work equipment, other valuables)

Non-economic damages

Non-economic damages are intangible but no less real. The insurance company may try to undervalue these damages because they are invisible:

• Physical pain
• Emotional suffering
• Loss of self-esteem for scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disability
• Loss of companionship for your spouse
• Loss of guidance for minor dependents

Can I receive compensation for PTSD after a truck accident?

A truck accident is a traumatic event that can cause lingering psychological effects. Some people experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a truck accident. The symptoms of PTSD can make it challenging to go about your life. You may panic whenever you see a commercial truck or semi. Or, anxiety about being on the road can interfere with your ability to attend medical appointments. The inability to sleep interferes with your recovery. PTSD is a type of non-economic damage that some truck accident victims experience. Our attorneys will pursue compensation for your PTSD if you have a diagnosis. We will work with your healthcare providers to assess how the accident affected your emotional and psychological state.

Do I have to go to court to win a truck accident settlement?

We pursue maximum compensation for your injuries at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA. We will never encourage you to accept a lowball offer because we do not want a trial or have run out of resources to fight your case. Many truck accident injury claims settle outside of court. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can anticipate the insurance company's next move. We play the long game and do not back off until we secure an adequate settlement for you. However, some cases may benefit from going to court. There are pros and cons to a trial. A court trial costs money for both sides and takes additional time. However, putting your case before a judge or jury might result in the best possible outcome. If we think that a court trial is in your best interests, we will let you know. As the plaintiff/injured party, the decision to go to court is ultimately yours. We are here to help you evaluate the advantages and disadvantages and understand your legal options.

Why do I need to file a personal injury claim? Will I receive money from the criminal case?

If the truck driver, transportation company, or other responsible party faces a criminal conviction, the courts may order them to pay you a fine. This fine is a form of punishment for the negligent party. This money is not intended to cover your accident-related damages. The law may allow you to collect a separate personal injury settlement.

The state never filed criminal charges. Can I still sue for personal injuries?

Yes. You may sue for personal injuries even if your truck accident involved no criminal charges. Our attorneys can help you pursue a personal injury claim in civil court. The criminal court handles any criminal charges, separate from civil court proceedings.

Can I sue if my loved one died in a truck accident?

Losing a close family member is always difficult. Knowing that someone else's negligence caused the accident only compounds that grief. Widowed spouses lose out on a lifetime of emotional and financial support. Minor children miss out on guidance and financial support, as well. The law may allow certain family members to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.

• 

  Spouse
• Children
• Parents
• If the deceased did not have a spouse or children
• If the deceased was a minor
• Estate representatives

A wrongful death settlement cannot replace your loved one, but it will hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions. This compensation can secure your financial future so you can move forward with your life. Our firm offers free consultations. Contact us to learn if you are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a family member in a fatal truck accident.

Do Not Wait to Contact Our Palm Bay Truck Accident Lawyers

Without a lawyer representing you, you are vulnerable to the insurance company's tactics. Do you have more questions about Palm Bay truck accidents? Learn if you have a valid legal claim and how much your injuries are worth. With offices across both Florida coasts, you can easily reach Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, at 833-552-7274 (833-55-CRASH) or write to us using our online contact page.