Truck accidents can be catastrophic and life-changing events. Victims of truck accidents may suffer severe injuries or even death.
In such cases, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced Boca Raton injury lawyer to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. Fetterman & Associates, PA, is a well-respected law firm representing truck accident victims for many years.
Our team of skilled lawyers is committed to ensuring that victims of truck accidents receive the compensation they deserve. We are based in Boca Raton and have helped countless clients in the area to recover damages resulting from truck accidents.
Contact our office to schedule a free initial consultation if you need help with your truck accident claim.
Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents are more common than many people realize. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 4,136 fatal crashes involving large trucks in 2018 resulted in 4,862 deaths. In addition, 107,000 injury crashes involving large trucks occurred in the same year.
The FMCSA reports that most fatal crashes involving large trucks occur on weekdays, during daylight hours, and on rural roads. The most common causes of fatal truck accidents include speeding, driver fatigue, and alcohol or drug use.
Boca Raton Truck Accident Laws
Truck accidents are subject to both state and federal laws. In Florida, the relevant laws include:
- Florida Statutes section 316.027: This law sets out the rules for commercial motor vehicles, including requirements for driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement.
- Florida Statutes section 627.7415: This law requires all drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which covers medical expenses and lost wages following a car accident.
- Florida Statutes section 768.81: This law sets out the rules for comparative negligence, which is the legal principle that allows a victim to recover damages even if they were partially responsible for the accident.
In addition to state laws, truck accidents are also subject to federal regulations. The FMCSA has established numerous regulations for commercial motor vehicles, including rules regarding driver qualifications, hours of service, and cargo securement.
Causes of Truck Accidents in Boca Raton
Truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers may be required to drive long distances without rest, leading to fatigue and impaired driving. Fatigue can slow reaction times, decrease awareness, and impair judgment, increasing the risk of an accident.
Speeding
Truck drivers may be pressured to deliver their cargo on time, leading to speeding and reckless driving. Speeding reduces the time drivers have to react to unexpected events, such as a sudden change in traffic, and increases the risk of an accident.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers may be distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, or other electronic devices while driving. Distractions take the driver’s attention away from the road, making it more difficult to react to unexpected events.
Poor vehicle Maintenance
Neglecting to maintain a truck can lead to equipment failures, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, which can cause accidents. Poor maintenance can also increase the risk of other accidents, such as fires or explosions.
Improper Cargo Securement
If cargo is not properly secured, it can shift or spill, leading to accidents. Cargo that is not properly secured can also create a hazard for other drivers on the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Injuries Seen in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can result in severe injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries: These injuries can result from a head blow and cause cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries: An injury to your spinal cord can result in paralysis or loss of motor function.
- Broken bones: Truck accidents can cause fractures, which can be painful and may require surgery.
- Internal injuries: These injuries can result from blunt force trauma and can be life-threatening.
- Burns: Truck accidents can cause fires or explosions, leading to severe burns.
Types of Compensation You May Receive in a Truck Accident Claim
If you have been involved in a truck accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your losses. Compensation can help you recover from the financial, physical, and emotional damages you have suffered.
Here are the types of compensation you may receive after a truck accident:
- Medical expenses: You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital stays, surgery, medication, and physical therapy.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can include both past and future lost wages.
- Pain and suffering: Truck accidents can cause physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental distress. You may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you have experienced due to the accident.
- Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, you may be entitled to punitive damages intended to punish the at-fault party for their actions. Punitive damages are typically only awarded in extreme negligence or intentional wrongdoing cases.
How to File a Truck Accident Claim
If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is essential to take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it is essential to seek medical attention to ensure that you have not suffered any injuries.
- Document the accident: Make sure to take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle, the truck, and any injuries you may have sustained. It is also important to obtain the contact and insurance information of the truck driver and any witnesses to the accident.
- Report the accident: Report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. The police report can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer: A truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and protect your rights. At Fetterman & Associates, PA, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and determine the best action.
Why Hire Our Boca Raton Truck Accident Law Lawyers
At Fetterman & Associates, PA, we have a proven track record of success in representing victims of truck accidents. Our team of experienced lawyers has the knowledge and expertise necessary to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
We understand the challenges that victims of truck accidents face, including mounting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. That’s why we are committed to fighting for our client’s rights and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their losses.
We also offer a contingency fee arrangement, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. This allows our clients to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
A: At Fetterman & Associates, PA, we offer a contingency fee arrangement, which means that we only get paid if we win your case. This allows our clients to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Q: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Florida?
A: In Florida, you generally have four years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, it is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.
Q: Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident in Florida?
A: Yes. Florida follows the legal principle of comparative negligence, which allows a victim to recover damages even if they were partially responsible for the accident. However, the damages may be reduced in proportion to the victim’s degree of fault.
Q: How long does it take to settle a truck accident case?
A: The length of time it takes to settle a truck accident case depends on various factors, such as the severity of the injuries, the amount of damages being sought, and the complexity of the case. Some cases may be settled within a few months, while others may take years to resolve.
Q: What if the truck driver in an accident was an independent contractor?
A: If the truck driver was an independent contractor, the company that hired them may still be liable for the accident. This is because the company may have controlled the driver’s actions, such as setting delivery schedules or dictating the route.
Q: What if the trucking company denies liability?
A: If the trucking company denies liability, it is important to consult with a lawyer who can investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim. Sometimes, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to recover damages.
Q: Do I have to go to court to recover damages after a truck accident?
A: Not necessarily. Many truck accident cases are settled outside court through negotiations between the parties involved. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to go to court to recover damages. Your lawyer can advise you on your case’s best course of action.
Let Our Boca Raton Truck Accident Lawyers Help with Your Case
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer. At Fetterman & Associates, PA, we are committed to ensuring that victims of truck accidents receive the compensation they deserve.
