Truck Accident Lawyers in Boca, Boynton Beach, Jupiter, West Palm Beach
Florida motorists share the roadways with many commercial trucks transporting goods throughout the state. Large trucks such as eighteen-wheelers are much more cumbersome to operate than a typical car or truck. Drivers of commercial trucks are specially trained to operate these large vehicles safely with their unique challenges such as large blind spots, wide turning radius's and longer stopping distances. In beach communities like Boynton or West Palm, roads can be narrow and cumbersome next to trucks.
Accidents involving commercial trucks still occur despite the training these drivers undergo. These accidents are often caused not by the truck driver, but by motorists who act unsafely around these large vehicles.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Motorists often fail to recognize the limitations of a commercial truck on the roadway and cause a truck accident to occur. Some common acts by motorists that result in truck accidents include:
- Changing lanes quickly in front of a truck or unexpectedly cutting off a truck
- Driving in the areas behind a truck where the truck driver has no visibility (also known as “No-Zones”)
- Making a left turn in front of a truck at an intersection and misjudging the speed at which the truck is approaching
- Driving on the right side of a truck while the truck is making a right turn
- Merging into traffic in front of a truck at a speed slower than the truck is traveling
- Driving between two large trucks
- Passing a large truck and being blown out or pushed into another lane by air turbulence
- Passing a large truck during heavy rain and losing driving visibility due to the water kicked up by the truck
- Entering traffic from the shoulder or side of the road in front of a large truck
- Attempting to pass a truck without sufficient accelerating or distance
Although truck accidents are often caused by the negligence of the motorists around them, commercial truck drivers and the companies they work for can be to blame as well. Some common situations where a truck driver or trucking company can cause an accident include:
- Inadequate training of the driver both in correct operation of the truck and correct safety procedures
- Failure of the trucking company to conduct regular maintenance on the truck
- Impairment of the truck driver due to substance abuse or inadequate sleep
- Unrealistic delivery schedules that cause the driver to speed or rush to make deadlines
- Extended driver shifts that fail to allow for adequate rest or downtime
- Compensation incentives based on the speed in which a driver performs his duties
Compensation for Trucking Accidents
The injuries and damages caused by trucking accidents are usually more severe and more devastating that those of a car accident. Victims of accidents involving commercial trucks will often face extensive injuries and long recovery times.
At William W. Price, P.A., our truck accident lawyers seek compensation for trucking accident victims on several different levels. In addition to reimbursement for medical care, lost wages and damages, we help you determine the cost of future care. Physical therapy, nursing home costs, additional surgeries and long term care must also be considered in dealing with a trucking accident.
Proof in Trucking Accident Claims
Gathering proof in truck accident claims is more involved than in car accident claims. Documents and records often must be collected from the trucking company and the truck driver and thoroughly reviewed by an experienced attorney.
Our attorneys are skilled in collecting the vital information needed to build a strong case. We employ a team of experts including:
- Accident reconstruction specialists
- Truck mechanics who specialize in the maintenance of specific types of commercial trucks
- Researchers who are skilled at gathering pertinent information such as the driver’s history and qualifications and the company’s hiring and training practices
- Behaviorists who can testify about the human factor – what could reasonably be expected under the circumstances and what typical human reactions should have been
- Our legal team gathers vital information such as trucking logs, accident records, witness testimony and company records
Hiring an Attorney for your Trucking Accident Claim
Trucking accident cases involve many unique rules and situations. An attorney who has experience in trucking accidents will help you navigate the complicated legal issues surrounding your case.
At William W. Price, P.A., our attorneys are experienced in trucking accident cases and we offer free consultations for trucking accident victims. When you call our offices, you will speak with an attorney, not an assistant. He or she will review the facts of your case and talk to you about your legal rights; all at no charge.
To schedule your free consultation, call 561-659-3212.