Mrs. López and all of the Staff that had helped us it has been an absolute pleasure. They always had an answer to our questions and treated us with respect but most of all they listened.
Alondra O.
Outstanding Attorneys and Legal Team. Lopez, Justin, and Daisy were quick to answer my questions and handled my accident case with speed and courtesy. The outcome was much better than I anticipated.
Robert R.
A huge thanks to your office for such a great experience with my case. Special thanks to Denora, Carmen, and especially Kevin for answering my many calls and questions and keeping me informed through the entire process. I’m am extremely happy and grateful with the outcome.
Kathy W.
Suffering injuries from a truck accident can have a profound impact on your life and the lives of your loved ones. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks can cause catastrophic damage to smaller vehicles, leading to destroyed property and overwhelming medical expenses. If the truck driver or another party is at fault, you have the right to pursue compensation, and our experienced team of attorneys is here to help.
At López & Humphries, PA, we are dedicated to standing up for victims and holding negligent parties accountable. In a free initial consultation, you can meet with a skilled Florida truck accident attorney who will outline your options for seeking financial relief. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can assist you.
Why Choose López & Humphries for Your Florida Truck Accident Case
After a truck accident, your primary focus should be on recovery. You need a legal team you can trust to handle your case with care, professionalism, and a commitment to your best interests. At López & Humphries, PA, we leverage our extensive experience and deep understanding of Florida law to advocate for every client.
Since our founding, López & Humphries has been a trusted name for countless clients because:
● We are deeply rooted in the community: Our attorneys were born and raised in the areas we serve. We understand Florida’s unique legal landscape and are passionate about helping our neighbors.
● We provide personalized service: Unlike firms that rely on call centers, we ensure that you speak directly with our attorneys from the start. We prioritize building genuine relationships with our clients.
● We come to you: Whether you are at home, in the hospital, or recovering elsewhere, we will meet you where it’s most convenient. With offices across Polk and Highlands Counties, we are always close by and ready to assist.
● We offer comprehensive support: Our team includes seasoned attorneys and investigators to thoroughly investigate your injury claims and gather critical evidence.
In 2022, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reported a total of 34,000 crashes involving medium and heavy trucks across the state.
These incidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, particularly affecting occupants of smaller vehicles. While some accidents may involve errors by other motorists, many are primarily due to negligence by truck drivers, trucking companies, or related entities.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Florida
Our firm frequently encounters truck accident cases stemming from the following factors:
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often face demanding schedules, leading them to exceed federally mandated hours-of-service limits. This fatigue significantly impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Notably, driving after more than eight consecutive hours can double the risk of a crash.
Distracted Driving
Distractions such as using cell phones, adjusting GPS devices, eating, or other in-cab activities divert a driver’s attention from the road. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, even a momentary lapse can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Speeding
Operating a large truck at excessive speeds reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes and increases stopping distances. Speeding is a significant contributor to truck accidents in Florida.
Impaired Driving
The use of alcohol or drugs, including certain prescription medications, impairs a driver’s cognitive and motor functions. Operating a large truck under such conditions poses extreme dangers to all road users.
Inadequate Training or Inexperience
Drivers lacking proper training or experience may struggle with vehicle control, route navigation, and responding to adverse conditions, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
Mechanical Failures
Poor maintenance can result in equipment failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts. Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial to prevent such incidents.
Improper Loading
Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, increasing the risk of rollovers or loss of control.
Blind Spots
Large trucks have significant blind spots on all sides. Failure to account for vehicles in these areas during lane changes or turns can lead to serious collisions.
Common Injuries from Truck Accidents
Victims of truck accidents often sustain severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Fractures and Broken Bones
- Internal Organ Damage
- Burns
- Amputations
These injuries typically require extensive medical treatment and can lead to long-term or permanent disabilities.
Navigating Insurance Claims
Trucking companies usually carry substantial insurance policies. However, obtaining fair compensation can be challenging. Florida’s no-fault insurance laws require drivers to first seek compensation through their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which may be insufficient for the extensive damages resulting from truck accidents. In such cases, pursuing a third-party claim against the trucking company or other liable parties may be necessary.
Pursuing Compensation Beyond PIP Limits
When damages exceed PIP coverage, victims may seek additional compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including current and future treatment costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Addressing physical pain and emotional distress.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact on familial relationships.
How López & Humphries, PA Can Assist
Our dedicated team offers comprehensive legal support by:
- Conducting Thorough Investigations: Gathering evidence to establish liability.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Advocating for fair settlements on your behalf.
- Litigating When Necessary: Preparing to take your case to court to secure just compensation.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Contact López & Humphries, PA Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Trust López & Humphries, PA to provide the legal expertise and compassionate support you need. Schedule your free consultation today, and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
