Commercial truck crashes often cause catastrophic injuries because of the sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers. In Florida, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) recorded 34 truck accident fatalities and 127 medium or heavy truck crashes resulting in incapacitating injuries in 2022. Other statistics indicate that over 32,000 commercial truck accidents occur annually in Florida, with large trucks making up 6 percent of all traffic crashes and 12 percent of roadway fatalities. In 2023, Florida recorded 341 deaths from large truck crashes, ranking third nationally. To maximize your recovery after a crash, you need to understand liability, evidence and the unique factors in truck litigation.
Why Truck Accidents Are Complicated
- Multiple liable parties. Besides the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance contractor or vehicle manufacturer may share responsibility. Federal and state regulations govern truck operations.
- Severe damages. Truck crashes often cause brain injuries, spinal trauma and permanent disabilities. Medical bills and lost wages can quickly exceed policy limits.
- Complex evidence. Evidence may include driver logs, black-box data, inspection records and maintenance logs. These need to be preserved quickly.
Steps to Protect Your Claim
- Report the accident and seek medical care. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked immediately. Internal injuries may not be obvious.
- Document everything. Take photos of the vehicles, skid marks and road conditions. Obtain contact information for witnesses and note the truck’s company name and USDOT number.
- Do not speak to the trucking company’s insurer. Trucking insurers often contact victims quickly to obtain statements or offer low settlements. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
- Hire a lawyer with truck accident experience. Souder Law understands federal motor carrier regulations and has experience litigating against trucking companies. We know how to preserve logbooks and electronic data, interview witnesses and work with accident reconstructionists.
What Affects Settlement Value
- Liability evidence: Demonstrating that the truck driver violated hours-of-service rules, was fatigued or speeding can increase settlement value. Studies note that common causes of truck crashes include driver fatigue, distracted driving, aggressive driving, poor vehicle maintenance and adverse weather conditions.
- Severity of injuries: Catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries or paralysis justify higher damages because of lifelong care needs. Florida’s comparative negligence law may reduce your award if you are partly at fault, so it is critical to gather evidence that supports your version of events.
- Insurance coverage: Commercial trucks usually carry higher liability policies than passenger vehicles, but coverage may still be limited when multiple victims are involved.
Souder Law fights to maximize settlements by documenting all economic and non-economic damages, hiring experts and preparing each case for trial. We work to ensure truck drivers and companies are held accountable and our clients receive full compensation.
