Stuart Truck Accident Lawyer
According to IBISWorld, Florida has experienced strong growth in the trucking industry from 2014–2019 because of a strong economy supported by consumer spending and manufacturing needs. Florida’s ports, distribution centers, and expanding population all contribute to the steady increase in commercial truck traffic on highways such as I-95, the Florida Turnpike, and U.S. 1. While this economic activity supports businesses across the state, it also means that more tractor-trailers and commercial vehicles are sharing the road with everyday drivers.
The downside to growth within the trucking industry is that it puts more large trucks on the road, which increases the risk for other road users. The average car weighs in around 5,000 pounds while, according to TruckersReport, an 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds before needing overweight permits. The sheer size and weight difference creates a dangerous imbalance in any collision. When a fully loaded commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the occupants of the smaller vehicle almost always suffer the most severe consequences.
This means that any crash involving a truck is likely to cause severe injuries or death to the other parties involved. Victims often face catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, and internal bleeding. If you or a loved one is a victim of a trucking crash in Florida, it is time to speak with a knowledgeable Stuart truck accident lawyer who is comfortable going up against trucking companies and their insurers to advocate for you. A skilled Stuart truck accident lawyer understands the high stakes involved in these cases and will fight to protect your rights.
Truck accident cases are far more complex than typical car accident claims. A Stuart truck accident lawyer must analyze driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and company policies to determine exactly what went wrong. Trucking companies and their insurance carriers often move quickly after a crash to protect their interests. Having an experienced Stuart truck accident lawyer on your side ensures that critical evidence is preserved and your case is properly developed from the start.
The Causes of Truck Crashes
Truckers are like other drivers in that they sometimes fail to drive safely and make poor choices on the road. However, commercial drivers are held to higher standards because of the size and danger of their vehicles. There is often a deadline for them to get products delivered to their destination, which can encourage truckers to speed or continue driving while they are fatigued. Federal hours-of-service regulations are designed to limit how long drivers can operate without rest, but violations still occur.
Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of trucking accidents. Long shifts, tight delivery schedules, and pressure from employers can result in drivers operating their vehicles while exhausted. Fatigue slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of serious crashes. A Stuart truck accident lawyer will examine logbooks and electronic logging device data to determine whether fatigue played a role in your accident.
Truck drivers may also drive distracted or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Distraction can include texting, using GPS devices, eating, or adjusting in-cab technology. Because of the size of commercial trucks, even a brief lapse in attention can have devastating consequences. A Stuart truck accident lawyer can request phone records and other evidence to uncover whether distracted driving contributed to the crash.
The trucks themselves make driving more difficult as well. If the truck is poorly loaded with cargo it can become top-heavy, and the higher center of gravity can make it more difficult to maneuver through turns or in windy conditions. Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents. A Stuart truck accident lawyer will investigate whether cargo loading errors or maintenance failures were factors in your case.
Eighteen-wheelers and other commercial trucks can take time to get used to driving, as they respond much differently to the road than personal vehicles. They require longer stopping distances, wider turns, and more space to change lanes. Yet, trucking companies sometimes rush new drivers through training in order to meet demand. Inadequate training and supervision can create dangerous situations on the road. A Stuart truck accident lawyer will evaluate whether negligent hiring or training practices contributed to the crash.
These explanations for why trucks get into crashes are not excuses. If a truck driver causes a crash, they need to be held responsible for the injuries and damages sustained by the victims. A dedicated Stuart truck accident lawyer will work to establish negligence and pursue full compensation on your behalf.
Is the Trucking Company Responsible Too?
In some claims, the trucking company can be held liable for the crash instead of only the individual driver. Commercial trucking operations involve multiple parties, including drivers, employers, maintenance providers, and sometimes cargo loaders. Determining liability requires a detailed investigation. A Stuart truck accident lawyer understands how to identify all potentially responsible parties.
For the trucking company to be held directly responsible, the truck driver must generally be an employee and not an independent contractor. They must also be using the truck for a work delivery and not personal use at the time of the crash. Additionally, the company may be liable if it failed to properly screen drivers, enforce safety policies, or maintain its fleet. A Stuart truck accident lawyer will analyze employment relationships and company records to determine where responsibility lies.
It is also necessary to investigate whether the driver was following federal laws regarding how many hours they were driving prior to the crash. Violations of federal motor carrier safety regulations can serve as strong evidence of negligence. A Stuart truck accident lawyer familiar with the trucking industry can research all of these details with regard to your crash so that the appropriate insurance claims are filed.
Trucking companies typically carry large insurance policies because of the significant damage their vehicles can cause. However, insurers representing these companies are aggressive in defending claims. They may attempt to shift blame, minimize injuries, or pressure victims into accepting low settlement offers. Having an experienced Stuart truck accident lawyer ensures that your claim is valued accurately and negotiated firmly.
A serious trucking accident can change your life in an instant. Medical expenses, lost income, and long-term rehabilitation costs can quickly become overwhelming. A Stuart truck accident lawyer will carefully calculate both current and future damages, including pain and suffering, diminished earning capacity, and ongoing medical care. With the guidance of a skilled Stuart truck accident lawyer, you can pursue the compensation you need to move forward after a devastating crash.
When Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Truck Collision?
It is in your best interest to contact a lawyer as soon as you are able to after a truck collision. From the beginning we can help answer your questions about the process and begin research on the trucking company involved. The Stuart truck accident attorneys at Sholtes Law, PLLC are prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf against the large trucking company and its insurers. Call us at 855-534-2509 or contact us to set up your free consultation.
