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Questions & Answers About Trucking Accidents


Experts In This Article

What are the most common causes of trucking accidents?

  • Distracted driving
  • Driver fatigue
  • Driver error
  • Poor truck maintenance
  • Drug and alcohol abuse
  • Overloading
  • Inclement weather conditions

Who is liable for an accident with a tractor-trailer if the driver of the truck caused the accident?

Most companies protect their drivers from legal liability in the case of an accident. All tractor-trailers are required to carry insurance according to the size and weight of the vehicle and sometimes depending on the contents they are hauling. The company that owns the tractor-trailer is liable for the actions of the driver they employ and any accidents they are involved in.

How much can I be compensated if I was involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer?

If you are involved in an accident with a commercial truck where the truck driver is at-fault, you should hire an experienced auto accident attorney to file a lawsuit against the trucking company or the company’s insurance carrier. You are entitled to full compensation for any damages you have suffered as a result of the accident including: property damage, past and future medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc.

What are some key pieces of evidence vital to your trucking accident claim?

  • Evidence from the accident scene (i.e. – skid marks, debris, any obstructions, road layout, etc.)
  • Statements from witnesses and emergency personnel
  • Trucking company’s documents including: driver qualification documents/credentials, vehicle inspection and maintenance forms, hours of service logbooks, truck driver deadlines, etc.
  • Your attorney and the team of investigators will determine whether driver fatigue was a factor in causing the accident or whether the truck was improperly loaded or overweight. They will also examine road and weather conditions.

What are common injuries drivers suffer in accidents involving a commercial truck, tractor-trailer or an 18-wheeler?

Drivers and passengers who are involved in accidents with commercial trucks, tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers are ten times more likely to be killed in the crash than with another car. Drivers and passengers who are not killed will likely suffer the following serious injuries:

  • Major head/brain injuries from flying objects
  • Neck and spinal cord injuries
  • Broken or severed limbs
  • Internal injuries to organs
  • Paralysis

What are some important questions to ask your truck accident lawyer?

  • Where are you licensed to practice law?
  • What are your legal fees?
  • Do you have experience in handling truck accident cases?
  • What documents should I bring to my initial consultation?

Who is liable for an accident with a tractor-trailer if the truck driver is proven to be at-fault?

Trucking companies have unlimited legal resources at their disposal and will use almost any means necessary to diminish driver liability. With fuel prices rising, many trucking companies resort to cutting corners to maintain their profitability- oftentimes at your expense. Financial and employer pressures can result in truck drivers engaging in dangerous and negligent behaviors. The company that owns the tractor-trailer is liable for the actions of the driver they employ and any accidents they are involved in. You are entitled to full compensation for any damages you have suffered as a result of the accident including: property damage, past and future medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc.

How long will a trucking accident case take?

The length of your case depends on the details of the accident and extent of your injuries. For those who suffer moderate injuries in a car accident, compensation is issued relatively quickly after you file a claim with your insurance company. However, auto accidents involving commercial vehicles and 18-wheelers are more complicated, have serious, life-altering injuries and oftentimes exceed drivers’ policy limits. An average trucking accident case can take up to one year to settle. Our attorneys can negotiate a settlement out of court, saving you time while still allowing you to get the full compensation you deserve. If the case ends up going to court, this can take more time, but in certain cases it is necessary to receive the full compensation to cover your injuries and future expenses, particularly if the accident resulted in a life-altering injury, like permanent disability or brain damage.

What are some ways to spot a drowsy truck driver and avoid an auto accident?

  • The truck driver is drifting in and out of lanes, tailgating or consistently hitting the shoulder “rumble strip” meant to keep drivers from veering off the road;
  • They are yawning or repeatedly rubbing their eyes;
  • They are having trouble keeping their head-up.

After an accident with an 18-wheeler is it okay for me to speak with the trucking company?

You should never talk to the trucking company following the accident or their insurance company. Immediately consult with an experienced Orlando truck accident lawyer. Do not sign any forms or give a recorded statement to the trucking company, their lawyers or their insurance company. All communication should be done through your attorney and insurance company.

What parties can be sued in a trucking accident case?

  • Truck driver
  • Trucking company
  • Third party maintenance company
  • Manufacturer of the trailer or any other truck part
  • Entity / Corporation responsible for the contents in the truck (i.e. – Walmart, FedEx, etc.)

Are You in Need of Legal Assistance?

Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.

We know that accidents don’t always happen during business hours. That’s why our experienced lawyers are standing by, 24/7/365, to listen to your story, evaluate your claim, and help you decide what to do next. Call us now and we’ll see if we can pursue compensation for your injuries!

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