Sarasota 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

If you live in Sarasota and you were in an accident with an 18-wheeler or commercial truck, you are not the only one. According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 100,000 Americans are involved in truck accidents each year.

When a truck accident occurs, it is often extremely severe. Although large trucks account for just 3% of the vehicles on the roads, they are involved in 12% of all fatal accidents.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured or killed in a truck accident, it is important that you fight for your right to compensation. Truck companies and truck drivers have a duty to protect other drivers on the road, and too often, reckless behavior results in life-altering consequences.

Contact us at The Law Place today on 941-444-4444 for a free consultation and speak to Sarasota truck accident lawyer committed to fighting for your rights.

Why You Need an Experienced 18 Wheel Truck Accident Lawyer

Trucking companies will have dealt with will countless truck accident cases, and they will have procedures already in place to protect themselves and their drivers. Following an accident with a truck driver, the trucking company could have representatives on the scene within minutes who will begin to collect evidence to try and reduce any claim brought against them. That is because they know that a lawsuit resulting from a truck accident is usually a highly substantial amount, so the more they can do to devalue or dismiss your claim in Sarasota, the better.

Trucking companies devote a lot of time, money, and effort in defending any personal injury or accident case that is brought against them. It might seem obvious that the 18-wheeler truck was at fault, but that does not mean that the trucking company will be prepared to pay you the settlement that you deserve.

At The Law Place, you will receive representation from a Sarasota personal injury lawyer who will support you every step of the way. We have experience dealing with similar cases across Sarasota and Florida and will make sure that you are not taken advantage of.

What Do I Do After an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?

If you are still at the scene of the truck accident, then try not to panic! Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, so you can phone our law firm for some free, unbiased advice when you need it most.

• Do not leave the scene – Your initial reaction might be to flee, especially if you are on a busy highway. However, this could constitute a hit-and-run, which is a serious offense. If you can, move out of the way of oncoming traffic and make sure that you and your passengers are safe.
• Call 911 to report the emergency – In Florida, you are required to phone the police if an accident caused personal injury or substantial property damage. Furthermore, the trucking company will be quick to try and make a case against you, and a police report will help to get the facts straight.
• Check on the other people who are involved in the accident – Assess your own injuries and those of anyone else involved, if necessary, phone for an ambulance.
• Take photos and capture video footage of the wreck – Use your phone to take photos of the entire scene, including all vehicles involved from different angles, road signs, the nature of the roadway, and road conditions. If there are any skid marks or debris, then try and capture this too. However, never put yourself in danger if there is still moving traffic.
• Gather names and contact information – Witnesses of the collision can help you and your lawyer to fight your personal injury case in Sarasota.
• Go to the emergency room – Following an accident with a truck, adrenaline is going to be running high. Therefore, you might not be aware of the extent of your injuries. It is important to get yourself checked out. Furthermore, medical records could be vital in your personal injury claim. You have two weeks from the date of the accident to get treatment for injuries that you later claim for. However, the sooner you receive treatment, the easier it will be for your truck accident attorney to prove that your injuries were the result of the accident.
• Avoid giving details of your accident case on social media – Social media statements can be used against you if you decide to make a personal injury claim. You should also avoid posting any activities you might be participating in, as this could be used to devalue your injuries.

Causes of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents

A truck accident is not always the fault of the truck driver. Many accidents can occur because of the negligence of the trucking company, who could have been looking to save money. This is unacceptable, and by bringing big businesses accountable for their actions, our law firm hopes to prevent more people from suffering unnecessarily in the future.

Causes of a truck accident in Sarasota, FL, could include:

• Driver fatigue – This would likely be the fault of the truck driver. However, some trucking companies expect their drivers to travel long distances with little time to rest.
• Overloaded freight – This is usually the fault of the trucking firm.
• Excessive speed – This could be the fault of the driver; however, the trucking company may also be liable if they set strict and unreasonable deadlines.
• Equipment malfunction – The manufacturer might be at fault if this was the cause of the truck accident.
• Defective tires – This could result in a tire manufacturer or distributor to be the defendant.
• Failure to follow state and federal regulations – This could be the fault of both the truck driver and the company.

How Will a Law Firm Prove My Case in Sarasota?

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Sarasota, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the next steps. Hiring a Sarasota truck accident lawyer can provide clarity and direction, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve.

• Collection and Preservation of Evidence – Prompt action is crucial after a truck accident. Sarasota truck accident lawyers are well-versed in preserving vital evidence. This might include photos of the accident scene, damaged motor vehicles, and skid marks. In cases involving commercial trucks or semi trucks, it’s crucial to retain logbooks, maintenance records, and any electronic data available from the truck.
• Expert Witness Testimony – An experienced truck accident attorney often collaborates with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the scene. These experts can provide testimony about the cause of the accident, the potential faults of commercial truck drivers, or any mechanical issues that might have contributed to the collision.
• Medical Documentation – To prove the extent of injuries from a semi truck accident or any large truck accidents, your Sarasota truck accident attorney will gather all relevant medical records. These documents help demonstrate the seriousness of injuries, the required treatments, and the potential for long-term consequences.
• Driver and Company Violations – Sarasota truck accident lawyers meticulously review all the details surrounding the case. This includes determining if the trucking companies adhered to federal and state regulations. Any violation, be it an overworked driver or a failure to maintain the commercial trucks properly, can serve as critical evidence.
• Witness Statements – Eyewitness accounts can be invaluable in truck accident cases. Whether it’s a passerby, other drivers, or passengers, their testimonies can offer an objective view of how the Sarasota truck accident transpired.
• Analysis of Previous Violations – In some instances, commercial truck drivers or trucking companies might have a history of violations or previous accidents. A detailed background check by truck accident attorneys can bring these to light, strengthening the victim’s case.
• Comparative Negligence – Florida operates under a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you were partly responsible for the accident, you could still recover damages. However, your compensation might be reduced by the percentage of your fault. Dedicated Sarasota truck accident lawyers will work diligently to ensure that your responsibility is minimized, maximizing your potential compensation.
• Economic and Non-Economic Damages Assessment – Besides the evident medical bills and property damages, serious truck accidents can lead to intangible losses such as pain, suffering, and mental anguish. Your Sarasota truck accident attorney will thoroughly evaluate all potential damages to ensure a comprehensive claim.

Truck accidents, especially those involving semi-truck accidents and commercial trucks, come with their set of complexities. It’s not just about proving fault but understanding the intricate details associated with commercial vehicle operations, driver behaviors, and company regulations.

Therefore, if you’re seeking justice for injuries sustained in a Sarasota truck accident, having a dedicated team of truck accident lawyers by your side can make all the difference. Our knowledge, resources, and commitment ensure that every aspect of your case is meticulously examined, giving you the best chance for a favorable outcome.

Common Injuries From Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are often the most severe road accidents, especially those involving large 18-wheeler trucks.

A large commercial vehicle is heavy, while a car may only weigh 4,000 pounds a large truck can weigh 80,000 when it is loaded, or even more if overloaded illegally.

Victims suffer broken bones, internal injuries, back and neck injuries, and in the worst-case scenarios, paralysis, traumatic brain injury, and death.

Those who survive could be left with life-changing and debilitating injuries, and they deserve sufficient compensation.

Compensation for Trucking Accidents

• Medical bills – You should fight for your rights to compensation for medical bills, including past present and future treatment and rehabilitative costs.
• Loss of earnings – You should also be reimbursed for lost wages and lost earning potential.
• Property damage – The cost of repairing your vehicle should be covered.
• Pain and suffering – Pain and suffering include mental suffering and loss of enjoyment. For example, if you can no longer run or pick up your child. These are difficult to quantify, and you need an experienced law firm on your side to fight for your rights.
• Loss of a loved one – If you have lost a loved one because of an accident with a truck, then you are owed compensation for funeral expenses and loss of consortium. The loss of consortium covers lost wages to a family household.

FAQ – Sarasota 18-Wheeler Accident

What qualifies as a trucking accident?

A trucking accident involves a collision where at least one of the vehicles is a large commercial truck or an 18-wheeler. Given the size and weight of large trucks, these accidents often result in more severe injuries than standard car accidents.

Why are trucking accidents different from other car accidents?

Trucking accidents differ due to the magnitude of potential damages and the complexity associated with identifying the liable parties. Commercial trucking companies, truck manufacturers, third-party contractors, and the truck driver’s ability to adhere to state trucking regulations all play a role. A thorough investigation is often needed to determine negligence and pursue legal action.

Who can be held responsible in a truck crash?

Several parties might be held liable: the truck driver for distracted driving or speeding, the commercial trucking companies for not adhering to safety protocols, truck manufacturers in case of a mechanical failure, and other parties involved in the maintenance and operation of the truck.

How does Florida law address trucking accidents?

Florida law requires all commercial vehicles and tractor trailer trucks to carry insurance coverage that is typically higher than that for personal vehicles. Given the higher risk associated with large trucks, these regulations aim to ensure that injured victims can cover their medical bills and other expenses after a serious injury.

What types of compensation can victims seek after a trucking accident?

Victims who have suffered injuries might be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and non-economic damages. In the unfortunate event of a wrongful death, the family might seek compensation for funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

How can your legal team assist me after a truck accident in Sarasota?

Our law firm has an experienced team dedicated to helping accident victims navigate the legal process, ensuring they receive maximum compensation. We’ll handle communications with the insurance company, gather evidence, negotiate settlements, and even represent you in court if needed.

What if the truck’s speed or the truck driver’s ability was compromised?

In such cases, proving negligence becomes crucial. Factors like distracted driving, violating state trucking regulations, or any other compromise in the truck driver’s ability can strengthen your personal injury case.

How does one prove negligence in truck accidents?

Evidence is crucial. This could include eyewitness accounts, police reports, the truck’s logbook, or footage from traffic cameras. Demonstrating that the commercial vehicle failed to follow laws or that other drivers acted negligently can significantly support your claim.

Are truck manufacturers ever responsible?

Yes, if it’s determined that a mechanical failure, faulty part, or a defect in the truck caused the accident, the truck manufacturer or third-party contractors involved in the truck’s maintenance could be potentially liable parties.

What steps should one take after a truck accident in Sarasota?

Seek immediate medical care even if you believe your injuries are minor. Document everything, from medical expenses to communication with the insurance company. Then, consult our law firm for a free case evaluation. An early consultation can offer you legal recourse options and guide you on the best path to financial compensation.

How can I ensure I receive fair compensation?

Having an experienced law firm on your side ensures that all liable parties are held accountable and that you receive the full extent of compensation you’re entitled to, from medical expenses to pain and suffering.

What if I lost a family member in a truck accident?

Our sincere condolences for your loss. In such tragic circumstances, you might have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Though no amount of financial compensation can truly make up for your loss, it can ease the financial burdens associated with such a tragic event.

How does your firm handle these cases compared to other law firms?

While many law firms handle a variety of cases, our focus is on personal injury and specifically accidents involving large trucks and commercial vehicles. This focus ensures aggressive representation and knowledge specific to the intricacies of trucking industry-related cases.

Do you charge upfront fees?

No, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay unless we win your case. We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and advise you on the best course of action.

The Law Place

Phone The Law Place today on 941-444-4444 for a free consultation, our practice areas cover Sarasota and the rest of Florida. If you have been in a road accident with a truck, then you deserve compensation. Accidents involving trucks are some of the most traumatic things that can happen to a person. And while no amount of money can make up for what you have been through, you shouldn’t have to worry about paying for the costs of an accident that wasn’t your fault.

Truck companies will have lawyers on their side, ready to fight and devalue your claim, it is essential that you level the playing field by ensuring that you have quality representation. Don’t tackle it alone; receive the help you need today so that you can focus on your recovery. And don’t worry, we work on a contingency basis, so if we don’t win, then you will not pay anything.