LOCAL (941) 924-0993
EXPERIENCED SARASOTA TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYERS
Serving all of Southwestern Florida
Large trucks haul products from across the country and from the ports dotting the extensive coastline on such busy Florida highways as I-75, US-40 and I-95. Although a vital part of the state’s economy, commercial vehicles can also create dangerous conditions for motorists. Often, truck accident injuries have life-changing or even fatal consequences.
Truck accidents can be especially difficult and confusing because drivers of cars, motorcycles and other small vehicles often can do nothing to prevent their accident. But while trucking companies know the risks their vehicles pose on Florida roads – and while truck drivers are well-aware of safety regulations governing the industry – you may find that both the driver involved in your accident or his or her trucking company ignored the law prior to your crash.
Determining Fault in a Big-Rig Wreck
Driving a tractor-trailer requires considerable skills and awareness. That’s why laws prohibit truckers from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, distracted or when too tired to operate a commercial vehicle. But just because it’s the law doesn’t mean truckers are willing to follow it. A driver may choose to take drugs to stay awake. He or she might knowingly break federal Hours of Service regulations that dictate how much time a trucker can spend on the road during the week.
Even if the truck driver is cited for the accident, you may also have a cause of action against the trucking company that employs the driver. For example, supervisors may have pressured drivers to speed, take drugs or forgo sleep to make unrealistic delivery deadlines. They may have failed to address a known safety issue with a vehicle’s brakes or steering. Untrained drivers, overloaded trucks and poor vehicle maintenance may have contributed to your crash.
Frequently Asked Questions about Truck Accidents
- What causes truck accidents in Florida?
- What should I do if the truck driver claims I caused the accident?
- What if I can’t locate the trucking company?
- Should I accept a settlement from the insurance company?
- Should I hire a lawyer ?
- What if I lost a loved one?
What causes truck accidents in Florida?
Truck accidents in Florida can happen for a number of different reasons. In some cases, a truck driver may be at fault for causing a crash after he or she falls asleep at the wheel or takes an illegal drug to stay awake. In other cases, a truck company may fail to properly inspect a truck or train a new driver. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents seen at Farrow & Pulice include:
- Distracted Truck Drivers
- Fatigued Truck Drivers
- Speeding Trucks
- Untrained / Inexperienced Truck Drivers
- Truck Drivers Impaired by Drugs or Alcohol
- Overloaded Trucks
What should I do if the truck driver claims I caused the accident?
In some accidents, you may find that the truck driver, trucking company and insurance companies try to claim you were fully or partially at fault for causing the accident. Even if you were partially at fault, Florida law allows injured motorists to collect damages based upon their own percentage of fault. At Farrow & Pulice, we know how to uncover the true cause of your accident. We have access to accident constructionists. We can obtain truck company documents and records. We can even locate and obtain “black box” information to determine if a driver fell asleep at the wheel.
What if I can’t locate the trucking company?
Truck accidents can be especially complex because many truck companies may be located out-of-state. Others may be located in different countries altogether. You may find that the trucking company is unwilling to cooperate. We have decades of experience tracking down truck companies. We know how to thoroughly investigate these companies to hold them accountable.
Should I accept a settlement from the insurance company?
After a truck accident, you may receive a quick settlement offer from the trucker or trucking company’s insurance provider. These settlements are often made before the true long-term cost of an accident victim’s injuries is known. Just because insurance companies make this offer – and just because insurance adjusters may try to bully or persuade you – doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Don’t shortchange yourself. We can help protect your rights.
Yes. An experienced Florida truck accident attorney can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case. Keep in mind that the trucking company will have lawyers working to protect its interests. The insurance company and the trucking company typically will send investigators to the scene of the accident within hours of the crash to begin investigating and finding ways to limit liability. That’s why you need to call us as soon as possible and level the playing field. At Farrow & Pulice, we thoroughly investigate each accident. We can send a team to the scene of your crash as soon as possible. You also will get personalized attention. We get to know our clients. We understand your accident turned life upside down. That’s why we work so hard for you. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the compensation you need to get life back on track.
It is imperative to contact an attorney immediately if you lost a loved one in a truck accident in Florida. You may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the truck driver or trucking company that caused the accident. At Farrow & Pulice, our experienced attorneys understand how to apply the appropriate discretion when dealing with such sensitive matters while relentlessly and aggressively pursuing the compensation your family needs to move forward after the loss of a loved one.
Aggressive Legal Advice from Our Experienced Attorneys
Some attorneys tell you what you want to hear. Others treat you like you’re a statistic. Farrow & Pulice take a different approach. We strive to provide individualized and personal attention you deserve. We’re here to listen to you every step of the way. The sooner you contact Farrow & Pulice, the sooner we can put our experience and resources to work for you. Contact us today at 866-408-1220 for a free case consultation with an experienced Sarasota truck accident attorney.
