Used for hauling freight, big rig trucks are a popular mode of transport in the United States and can be found on almost all major highways, including those in Fort Myers and Southwest Florida. Accidents involving big rig trucks are relatively rare. However, if you or a loved one have found yourself to be unfortunate enough to experience one, then you may be entitled to compensation.
A truck of this kind can often weigh several tons, and when involved in an accident, the damage and injury caused can be disastrous. As a result, you may find yourself facing expensive medical bills and vehicle repair costs. At The Law Place, our personal injury lawyers can help fight to ensure you receive the compensation that you are entitled to.
With over 75 years of combined experience in dealing with cases similar to yours, our skilled accident attorneys are here to help. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call us today on (941) 444-4444 to start your claim.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fort Myers, Florida?
Whilst it is uncommon to experience an accident with a truck, the consequences are likely to be far more serious. Truck accidents will often result in far more severe damages and injuries. There are many reasons that these sorts of accidents occur. Some of the most common causes are:
- Overloaded cargo
- Fatigued drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Trucking company negligence
- Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Defective vehicle parts
- Poor maintenance of the vehicle.
- Aggressive driving
Most of the time, these accidents occur due to the fault of the truck driver and their negligent driving. However, on occasion, it can also be the fault of the trucking company if they have failed to maintain their vehicles and ensure their safety on the road.
At The Law Place in Fort Myers, we are committed to investigating your crash and ensuring that the liable party is held accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer.
What Damages Can You Claim for in a Truck Accident in Fort Myers?
A variety of damages may occur as a result of a truck accident in Fort Myers, Florida. Following a truck accident, your personal injury attorney will look to claim for the following types of damages:
- Any medical bills from the past, present, or future
- Any loss of income or potential earning capacity
- Pain and suffering caused by the accident, such as undue stress or emotional anxiety
- Wrongful death
Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident in Florida?
Establishing who is liable for an accident is a key factor in any claim. Truck accidents can be trickier when it comes to liability as often there can be multiple parties liable, such as the driver or the trucking company. It will depend on the circumstances of your accident to establish who exactly is liable. Liability for a truck accident can be held against any of the following parties:
- Truck drivers
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- The insurance provider
- Third-party companies
Sometimes it can be complicated trying to identify who the liable party is in a truck accident. Even if you find yourself partly at fault for the incident, you will still be able to make a claim as Florida Law statue 768.81 states that Florida operates under a comparative negligence scheme. This means that each party is held responsible for damages according to the percentage that the party is found to be at fault, as determined by the courts. At The Law Place, our attorneys are here to guide you through the process and give you all the help and support you need with your claim.
What Should You Do If You Find Yourself in an Accident With a Truck in Southwest Florida?
If you find yourself involved in an accident with a truck in Fort Myers, then we highly recommend you contact an accident lawyer as soon as possible to start your claim. The sooner a claim is made, then the easier it is for our accident lawyer to gather evidence and information that will support your case.
In Florida, it is a legal requirement for trucks to be fitted with an Event Data Recorder (EDR), more commonly known as a black box. These devices store data concerning what the vehicle was doing before, during, and after your accident. Therefore, it can provide your accident lawyer with essential information and establish whether the truck driver was at fault.
At The Law Place, not only will your personal injury lawyer assess the black box data and truck drivers company records, but they will also look to take statements and interview witnesses to strengthen your case and claim for any compensation that you may be entitled to.
How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?
At The Law Place, we understand how traumatic dealing with a Fort Myers truck accident can be, which is why we offer a free no-obligation consultation with a truck accident lawyer. We always advise that you speak with an injury lawyer before speaking to insurance companies, as they will likely do all they can to protect themselves and devalue your claim.
At The Law Place, we work on a contingency basis, meaning that all our legal fees are only deducted once you receive a settlement. If your case is unsuccessful, then you will not pay anything.
Call The Law Place Today!
If you have been the victim of a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, then contact our injury lawyers today in Southwest Florida. With over 75 years of combined experience in dealing with cases like yours, you are in capable hands. Call us on (941) 444-4444 to start your claim today.