If you are unaware of what a tractor-trailer is, it is a unique type of truck. The way the trailer is designed means it might be involved in many accidents of different severities if the vehicle is not properly maintained and operated.
These types of trucks tend to be a lot heavier than most vehicles on the roads, and they are more likely to be carrying hazardous cargo. The drivers of these types of trucks are unfortunately under a lot of pressure to meet very strict deadlines when delivering this cargo. This means they are often tired, distracted, and in a hurry when trying to deliver cargo. This is likely to lead to a truck accident that may be devastating for all parties involved.
Our team of personal injury lawyers here at The Law Place is here to help you, as they are very experienced in dealing with cases just like yours. Our law firm understands the correct and appropriate steps to take when handling this type of case. Our team of truck accident lawyers has over 75 years of combined experience in both Port Charlotte and the rest of the State of Florida. We work as a team to ensure any client that comes to us benefits from our combined skills when investigating these types of cases.
Call The Law Place today at (941) 444-4444 to schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers. Phone lines are open 24/7.
What Is Involved in Truck Accident Investigations?
When dealing with any type of road accident, an accident attorney will employ several different types of experts. These investigators will assist personal injury lawyers in investigating the case by gathering evidence from accidents, including records, photographs, and also measurements.
After the team for a truck accident case is assembled, the attorneys within the case will be able to get an idea of what caused the tractor-trailer accident in the first place, as well as any contributing factors. This will also lead to determining liability or fault in a truck accident case.
The accident lawyer assigned to your case will pay careful attention to the operator of the truck that was involved in the accident. The actions of the driver involved at the time of the accident will not only be thoroughly examined, but the history of the driver will be scrutinized within the case. In some past cases, the history of the driver will be a clear indicator of whether the company involved with the truck should have originally hired the truck driver in the first place. In other cases, the truck driver may have done their best in the situation, but the company that hired them failed to provide appropriate and adequate training.
Our experienced and knowledgeable workforce here at The Law Place will work to recreate the events of the original accident. This will involve the attorney gathering and evaluating all relevant evidence, which will include the “black box” installed in the truck at the time. A “black box” is a recording device found in most large commercial vehicles. It is especially important to your claim as it will contain vital evidence, such as:
- When the accident occurred.
- How fast the tractor-trailer was driving.
- Whether any warning lights were on.
- The force of the impact.
- Brake usage and the steering angle.
All of this evidence (and more) will be very useful when trying to establish whether the driver’s actions directly caused the accident. We will be able to analyze the information found in the black box and whether it will be able to be used to support your case.
What Are Some of the Causes of a Truck Accident in Port Charlotte, FL?
In any type of truck accident, there are some common causes in Port Charlotte. These may include:
- A driver being distracted.
- A driver texting.
- A driver speeding, tailgating, or otherwise violating traffic laws.
- The driver is overly fatigued.
- Driving while using drugs or alcohol.
- The driver is improperly trained.
- The driver failed to adequately secure the vehicle’s cargo.
All of these potential causes in road vehicle accidents are often involved in negligence claims. These claims can either be against a truck driver, an employer of the driver, and the insurance companies involved. If you have been involved in an accident where any of these factors resulted in a truck accident and this led to injuries, then the victim may be able to claim compensation. If this is you, then it is highly recommended that you contact a qualified personal injury lawyer.
Here in Port Charlotte, tractor-trailer drivers must follow federal and state regulations when driving on the roads of Florida. These laws specify how long the driver can be on the road and any training requirements they must carry out. Truck accidents can occur when the driver or the owner of the vehicle has disobeyed any weight limits, height restrictions, or other regulations put in place to keep people safe.
Luckily for you, here at The Law Place, our team of truck accident lawyers is experienced in dealing with cases like yours. So don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What Should I Do at a Scene of a Truck Accident in Port Charlotte?
After an accident has occurred, there are certain steps you should take after the accident. These involve:
- Check-in – After the accident has occurred, you should first check on your injuries and move to a safe place if possible.
- Call emergency services – If you need further medical assistance, then call an ambulance. Even if your injuries are minor, you should still get checked.
- Report the accident – You are required by law in Florida to report a road accident that has caused property damage or injury. This must be reported to the police within 10 days.
- Gather information –You must make sure you get the name, phone number, and vehicle information of anyone else involved in the incident. Additionally, gather information from any witnesses, including names and phone numbers.
- Don’t leave the scene – If you believe you are at fault or you are panicking for whatever reason, it may be tempting to leave the incident. However, this may trigger a hit-and-run claim.
Contact The Law Place in Port Charlotte Today!
Here at The Law Place, we understand how much of a harrowing time an accident can be, especially when considering the pain and suffering you have endured. Our team of personal injury lawyers has over 75 years of combined experience when dealing with these types of cases. Therefore, you can put your trust in our team to guide you through the Florida legal process safely and smoothly.
Call us today at (941) 444-4444, where our lines are open 24 hours a day and seven days a week. We are awaiting your call.