Experienced Fort Lauderdale 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Fort Lauderdale 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney
Find out why we have some of the best Fort Lauderdale 18-wheeler accident lawyers
What is a Fort Lauderdale 18-Wheeler Accident?
A Fort Lauderdale 18-wheeler accident refers to a collision involving a large commercial truck (typically with 18 wheels) and another vehicle or pedestrian on the roads of Fort Lauderdale. These accidents can result in severe injuries and property damage due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks.
There were 4,862 fatal motor vehicle accidents involving large trucks in 2018. Additionally, there were 112,000 more large trucks and semi-trucks involved in injury crashes. [1]
Victims of truck collisions in Fort Lauderdale often sustain severe injuries, such as broken bones, lacerations, internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord damage. As a result, they may incur medical expenses and require long-term rehabilitation, which can lead to financial difficulties for the victim.
Types of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents in Fort Lauderdale can have devastating consequences for both drivers and passengers involved. Understanding these different types of accidents can help victims of truck accidents seek the appropriate legal recourse.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the number of fatalities in truck accidents in 2016 was 3,986. A significant number of individuals who sustained severe injuries and experienced long-term consequences as a result of these accidents. [2]
Single Vehicle Truck Accidents
Single-vehicle truck accidents refer to incidents where a truck is involved in an accident without the presence of another vehicle. These accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, including equipment failures like brake failure, driver fatigue, or negligence.
Equipment failures can lead to single-vehicle truck accidents if major components such as brakes or tires malfunction. These failures can cause the driver to lose control of the truck, resulting in a crash. Long hours on the road without adequate rest can impair a truck driver’s ability to react and make sound decisions, increasing the risk of accidents.
Multi-Vehicle Truck Accidents
In multi-vehicle truck accidents, several vehicles can be affected, including commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and other cars on the road. The force of impact from the truck can cause severe damage to these vehicles.
There are several causes and contributing factors that can lead to multi-vehicle truck accidents. Driver error, such as speeding, tailgating, or improper lane changes, is a common cause.
Distracted driving, such as texting or using a cell phone while driving, can also lead to these accidents. Driver fatigue, impaired driving, and failure to obey traffic laws can also contribute to multi-vehicle truck accidents.
Rear-End Collisions Involving Trucks
Rear-end collisions involving trucks can result in devastating consequences for all parties involved. One common factor contributing to such accidents is drowsy driving, where truck drivers are fatigued and have reduced alertness on the road.
Negligent actions, such as failing to maintain a safe following distance or abruptly changing lanes, can also lead to these types of collisions. When a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle, it can cause severe damage and injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles.
These careless actions by truck drivers can result in dangerous accidents, putting the lives of other road users at risk.
Tire Blowouts and Other Equipment Failures in Trucks
Tire blowouts and other equipment failures in trucks can have devastating consequences on the road. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including manufacturing mistakes and improper maintenance.
One common cause of tire blowouts is improper load distribution. When a truck is overloaded, or the weight is not properly distributed, it can put excessive strain on the tires, leading to a blowout.
Blind Spot Incidents with Trucks
Blind spot incidents involving trucks can present significant dangers to other vehicles on the road. Due to their large size and design, trucks have substantial blind spots that can obstruct the driver’s view of surrounding vehicles. These blind spots are especially prominent on the right side of the truck, extending from the side mirrors to the rear of the vehicle.
When other vehicles enter these blind spots, commercial drivers may not be able to see them, increasing the risk of accidents. Sudden lane changes or merging maneuvers can result in collisions if the truck driver is unaware of the presence of another vehicle in their blind spot.
Potential Damages in a Trucking Accident Case
Truck accident victims may suffer from a range of injuries and damages that can have a significant impact on their lives. Understanding the potential damages that can be pursued in a trucking accident case is important for anyone seeking compensation.
In 2020, there were 5700 large trucks involved in fatal crashes, which represents an 18% increase from 2019 and a 49% increase over the past decade. [3]
Medical Expenses & Bills
Doctor visits are one of the initial expenses victims may face, as they need to be evaluated and treated for their injuries. Emergency medical services, such as ambulance transportation and emergency room care, also add to the medical bills.
Hospital stays can contribute to the overall medical costs, as victims may need extensive monitoring and treatment. Prescription medications are often prescribed to manage pain and aid in recovery, which can also result in significant expenses. In-home nursing care may be required for those who suffer severe injuries and need assistance with daily activities.
Mental Anguish & Quality of Life Losses
Victims of 18-wheeler accidents often suffer from non-financial damages that can be challenging to calculate but are no less significant. These damages, often referred to as mental anguish and quality of life losses, can have a profound impact on the accident victim.
Mental anguish encompasses the emotional and psychological distress experienced as a result of the accident. The trauma and stress caused by an 18-wheeler accident can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other psychological conditions.
These conditions can affect the victim’s overall well-being and quality of life, making it difficult for them to engage in everyday activities or enjoy life as they did before the accident.
Quality of life losses go beyond physical injuries and extended property damage. They encompass the loss of enjoyment or use of certain activities, hobbies, or even relationships. For example, accident victims who enjoy playing sports may no longer be able to participate due to their injuries. The accident can strain relationships, resulting in the loss of consortium or companionship.
Determining Liability in a Trucking Accident Case
To assess negligence, various factors are considered, such as driver behavior, adherence to traffic laws, vehicle maintenance records, and compliance with federal regulations.’
Eyewitness testimonies, medical records, police reports, and accident reconstruction analysis play a role in establishing the sequence of events and identifying the responsible party.
In a truck accident lawsuit, several parties can be named as defendants. This includes the truck driver, trucking company, and potentially even the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider. The driver’s actions, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, may contribute to the accident.
The trucking company may be held as a liable party if it failed to properly train or supervise the driver, or if it neglected vehicle maintenance. In some cases, defective parts or equipment can lead to the involvement of the manufacturer or maintenance provider.
Truck companies are required to keep records, such as maintenance logs, driver hour logs, and electronic logging device data. These records serve as vital evidence in proving negligence or non-compliance with federal regulations.
Why Do You Need an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer?
In the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident in Fort Lauderdale, hiring an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer becomes essential for the injured party.
Our personal injury law firm has a proven track record of successfully handling trucking accident cases and will work with you to successfully pursue your claim for compensation.
Trucking companies have their own legal teams who work vigorously to protect their interests. This makes it essential for accident victims to have proper representation to counteract the efforts of the opposing party effectively.
Have You or a Loved One Been Involved in a Devastating 18-Wheeler Accident in Fort Lauderdale?
If so, you need the expertise of our skilled Fort Lauderdale 18-wheeler accident lawyer. Our team is dedicated to helping victims like you seek justice and obtain the truck accident compensation you deserve. With years of experience in handling complex truck accident cases, we have the knowledge and resources to fight for your rights.
Don’t let the aftermath of the accident overwhelm you. By hiring our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Our goal is to secure financial compensation for your medical care, lost wages, emotional pain and suffering, and more.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
Sources
[1] Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts 2018 | FMCSA. (n.d.). Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts 2018 | FMCSA. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/large-truck-and-bus-crash-facts-2018
[2] Fatality Facts 2021: Large trucks. (n.d.). IIHS-HLDI Crash Testing and Highway Safety. https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/large-trucks
[3] Large Trucks – Injury Facts. (n.d.). Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/large-trucks/
If you've recently sustained an injury from a vehicle accident involving an 18-wheeler in Fort Lauderdale, feel free to reach out to us. Our team will assess the details of your situation and determine the potential merits of your case. Don't hesitate, contact us today!
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