Truck drivers are some of the most experienced vehicle operators on the road, and the average Class 8 truck travels 5.5x more miles each year than the average passenger vehicle. Some truckers drive 120,000 miles or more in a year, and many of these drivers will go their entire careers without being involved in a crash.
However, when a truck accident does occur, the results can be catastrophic.
Contact 1-800-Injured To Find a Florida Lawyer Today
Truck accidents often involve significant property damage and serious injuries or fatalities. When these incidents occur due to careless driving, reckless behavior, or other negligent acts by a truck driver or company, victims may be entitled to financial compensation for their losses.
1-800-Injured is a lawyer and medical referral service that connects personal injury victims, including truck accident victims and their loved ones, with experienced attorneys in their area. If you’ve been in a crash, contact us today to access a broad network of Florida truck accident lawyers who have worked on behalf of clients in a wide variety of truck crash cases. They understand the unique circumstances that must be considered while seeking fair compensation.
Read more below to learn more about Florida truck accidents, and contact us right away by calling 1-800-Injured or submitting your information right from our website. The sooner you contact us, the sooner you can be connected with a diligent legal professional who is prepared to help you and your family achieve financial justice.
Florida Truck Accident Statistics
In 2020, 4,965 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks nationwide, with 7.2% of these crashes occurring in Florida. The national average was over a percentage point higher, at 8.9%, but victims and surviving family members of these tragedies will take no solace in knowing that our state is below the national average.
Furthermore, there were 106,902 injury crashes involving large trucks across the country, a clear reminder that a fatal crash is not the only risk when we take to the open roads. A collision that would be considered a “fender bender” between two like-sized vehicles can quickly become a much larger problem when an 18-wheeler is involved.
Common Injuries From Accidents Involving Large Trucks
The following are some of the most common injuries that can result from a crash with a large truck:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when your head moves back and forth rapidly due to a sudden force.
Broken Bones
Any bone can be broken in an accident, but arms, legs, and ribs are especially vulnerable in truck collisions. A broken bone has many costs and losses associated with it, including pain and suffering, lost wages due to missed work, medical bills for treatment, and in some cases, the potential for permanent disability.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury can be mild or severe and may not be immediately apparent following the accident. Even a mild TBI, like a minor concussion, can have serious short- and long-term effects that may be difficult to quantify in financial terms without the help of an experienced legal professional.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a collision can cause a fracture or dislocation of the vertebrae in your spine, which can lead to permanent paralysis. The spinal cord is a sensitive bundle of nerves responsible for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Disrupting this important system can lead to long-term disabilities or even death.
Psychological Trauma
Often overlooked or dismissed, psychological trauma can be just as devastating as a physical injury, and should always be taken seriously. PTSD can have a lifelong impact on a victim’s life and must be accounted for just like a broken bone.
1-800-Injured Has Florida Accident Victims Covered
The attorneys in our network are established in many major cities across the state, including:
However, you do not need to be a resident of any of these cities to take advantage of our service. Even if you are located in a rural area, we can help connect you with a Florida truck accident lawyer who is willing to help you through this difficult process. They will fight to get you the money you are owed after suffering as a result of someone else’s reckless or negligent driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Personal Injury Claims
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about personal injury claims related to truck accidents. Keep in mind that many specifics will ultimately determine your case’s outcome, so it’s important to contact us for a free consultation with an experienced lawyer.
What kind of compensation am I entitled to after a truck accident?
The amount of compensation you are entitled to will depend on several factors, such as the severity of your injuries, the medical expenses incurred, and any lost wages due to the accident. In addition, a skilled attorney may be able to recover compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability or disfigurement, and more.
What should I do if I'm involved in a truck accident?
The first thing you should do after any accident is to seek medical attention. It’s important to document your injuries and be able to provide proof of them if you decide to pursue a personal injury case. After that, contact an attorney who has experience with truck accident cases as soon as possible so they can begin building your case.
What qualifies as a serious injury?
Serious injuries cause physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, significant medical expenses, lost wages, and more. They may include traumatic brain injuries, arm or leg fractures, paralysis, internal organ damage, and more. Don’t let an insurer decide what constitutes a serious injury — working with a personal injury attorney is one of the best ways to establish the facts of your situation and fight to get what you deserve, not just what the insurer wants to pay.
What are the most common types of injuries from truck accidents?
Common injuries from truck crashes include broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and even wrongful death. However, many people don’t realize that emotional suffering is also a form of injury that can be included in a personal injury claim.
How long do I have to file an injury claim?
The time you have to file a truck accident injury claim is set by Florida’s Statute of Limitations, which is four years from the date of the accident for most cases. However, it is important to remember that you should not wait too long to get legal help. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chance of recovering compensation for your losses.
What should I do if I am contacted by an insurance company?
It is important to understand that insurance companies are businesses. They are not there to look out for your best interests, and the insurance adjuster has no obligation to inform you of all the options available when it comes to settling a claim. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible to get help navigating this complex process.
Who can I sue for my truck accident claim?
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your crash, you may be able to sue the truck driver, the trucking company, or even a third party who may have been responsible for causing or contributing to your accident. An experienced attorney can help you identify all possible defendants and determine who is liable for your damages.