Winter Haven Truck Accident Lawyers Helping Victims Recover Maximum Compensation

Truck accidents can be traumatic events that often leave victims severely injured and can be fatal. Many variables can cause a truck accident, which makes this type of case potentially complex. From driver error to equipment malfunction or even road design problems, the causes of a truck accident need to be thoroughly investigated to determine who may be financially liable for damages. Our truck accident attorneys have helped many victims in Winter Haven, FL, and surrounding areas, to recover compensation for their injuries. Here are a few important things you need to know.

What Kind of Regulations Do Commercial Truck Drivers Need to Follow in Florida?

Commercial trucking is a heavily-regulated industry. Commercial trucking companies and truck drivers must adhere to both federal and state laws at all times. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets forth several rules applicable to trucks that travel across state lines.

In addition, the state of Florida has additional rules for trucks traveling within state lines. Examples of these rules include the requirement for trucks to be registered with the Department of Transportation and display a registration number. They must also comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations relating to licensing, fueling procedures, and periodic compliance reviews. Failure to abide by all of these regulations is usually a root cause for many truck accidents.

How Is Liability Determined in a Trucking Accident?

Determining which party is responsible for a trucking accident can be a complex task. While the truck driver often carries the largest share of responsibility, other factors may also have contributed to the accident. If a truck driver is overworked and put under pressure to bend rules and drive for more hours than allowed by law, the trucking company shares responsibility for promoting these practices and not following regulations.

If the company that packed and prepared the cargo in the trailer failed to secure the load properly, causing it to slide around and resulting in the driver losing control of the truck, then that company shares responsibility for the accident. Some truck accident cases involve multiple responsible parties and potentially multiple insurance claims, making the work of a truck accident attorney essential.

Can I File a Lawsuit After a Truck Accident in Florida?

The first step to try and obtain compensation for a truck accident is to file an insurance claim. Your claim may be filed against the driver’s insurance policy, against the insurer of the trucking company, and, in many cases, against both. However, some insurance companies may be very resistant to accepting a claim, and will sometimes offer a low settlement amount that does not cover all your losses.

When a favorable resolution cannot be reached via negotiation outside of the courtroom, your attorney for personal injury may recommend filing a civil lawsuit for personal injury and taking your case to trial. Through a civil suit, you may be able to seek compensation not only for your injuries and economic losses (such as medical bills, lost wages, damages to your vehicle), but also for pain, suffering, and emotional distress — a component not always present in an average insurance settlement offer.

How Can a Truck Accident Attorney Help Me?

As you can see, truck accidents often involve multiple parties and require an in-depth investigation to better determine which party or parties are responsible for the accident. An attorney can not only handle the investigation and paperwork on your behalf, but also all other aspects of your case. At Jiles Law, P.A., we know trucking companies are prepared with a strong team of lawyers to represent them during accident claims, and we are more than ready to fight back and get them to pay you the compensation you deserve. If you have been injured in a truck accident in Winter Haven, FL, or surrounding areas, contact us at 863-875-6900 and request a case analysis to see how we can help.