Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Clearwater, Florida Truck Accidents
Large commercial trucks are an everyday sight on Florida roadways and often operate in extremely close proximity to smaller passenger vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates[1] that accidents involving large trucks accounted for 104,000 injuries in 2012, with 73 percent of these injuries affecting the individuals who were in other vehicles. Because these vehicles are 20-30 times more massive than smaller passenger vehicles, they are capable of causing serious damage and bodily injury when they are involved in accidents. In many cases, these injuries leave victims with significant medical expenses, lost income, long-term medical issues, and significant physical and emotional pain and suffering. Fortunately, these and other losses may be compensable under Florida law. Victims should be sure to discuss their accident with a Clearwater truck accident lawyer in order to determine whether they have the right to recover.
At the Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we regularly represent people who have been injured in accidents involving large commercial trucks. As a result, we understand the needs of truck accident victims and have the skill and experience required to help victims get the compensation to which they are entitled. In order to help our prospective clients better understand the technical and legal issues, we have provided some answers to some of the questions we frequently are asked regarding truck accidents.
What are the common causes of commercial truck accidents?
The most common cause of all motor vehicle accidents, including trucking accidents, is driver error. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), driver fatigue and braking capability are significant factors in many trucking accidents. In addition, issues such as distracted driving, speeding, improperly loaded or secured cargo, or driving while impaired also contribute to a significant number of truck accidents each year. Truck accidents can also be caused by defectively designed or manufactured vehicles or vehicle equipment, as well.
Who can be held liable after a Clearwater truck accident?
A number of parties could be held liable for a truck accident, depending on who is at fault. In accidents caused by truck drivers, often the truck driver or the company responsible for the truck's operation can be held liable. In accidents that are caused by mechanical failure, it may be possible to hold the manufacturer of the part that failed or the party responsible for the maintenance of the vehicle responsible. After a truck accident, an attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of your accident and determine who, if anyone, could be held liable for your injuries and other losses.
How much is my truck accident worth?
Under Florida law[2], both economic and non-economic damages are recoverable after an accident caused by negligence[3]. As a result, the amount of recovery you receive will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of property damage sustained, the amount of income you lost due to missed work, as well as the long-term effects of your injuries.
Do I need an attorney in order to recover for my injuries?
It is highly advisable for anyone who has been injured in a truck accident to retain legal counsel as soon as he or she is able. While it is possible to obtain compensation for losses without an attorney, the assistance of a lawyer can often have a significant impact on the amount you ultimately recover. Trucking companies and their insurers are well-aware of the fact that they operate in a high-risk industry and are ready to vigorously defend claims and minimize payouts. As a result, victims should retain an attorney who understands how the trucking industry operates and has experience litigating trucking accident claims.
Contact a Clearwater, Florida truck accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation
Anyone who has been injured in a truck accident should retain legal counsel as soon as possible. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, call our office today at (727) 451-6900.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA
800 North Belcher Road
Clearwater, FL 33756
727-451-6900
References:
[1] Large Trucks
[2] https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/
[3] https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/negligence