Truck accidents are some of the most severe accidents that occur on our roads. Between the years 2016 and 2017 on U.S. roads, fatal truck accidents increased on our roadways for a variety of reasons. Truck drivers are trained for our roads and the obstacles they might face, but the reality is that an accident could occur in the blink of an eye. If you have been involved in a Florida truck accident, you might wonder what rights you have for compensation. With the help of an attorney, you can discover your many options moving forward.

Truck Accident FAQ 

Why are large commercial trucks more likely to cause serious accidents? When it comes to other vehicles on our roads, many are not as large as commercial trucks. A fully-loaded truck can weigh over 80,000 pounds, while passenger vehicles weigh in right around 3,000 pounds. Any collision that takes place involving such a large vehicle is likely to end in serious results such as injuries or fatalities. 

Can I receive compensation for a wide array of damages after my truck accident? Yes, you have a right to receive compensation for your injuries and damages. For instance, you may have sustained a wide array of injuries in your accident, which can leave you with medical bills you cannot afford to pay on your own. You also have a right to compensate for lost time at work. You can compensate for damages that have not happened yet such as lost earning capacity for the future. Your attorney will guide you through your claim and make you aware of all damages. 

What is a no-zone when it comes to commercial vehicles? Many people wonder what a truck’s no-zone is, as they are mentioned many times when referring to these accidents. This is the area of a truck that runs alongside or behind it where the truck has limited visibility and is unable to see you. This means that, if you are riding in one of these zones, you could be struck when the truck driver merges into your lane.

Do I have the right to sue the truck company? You might believe that the only person you can sue after a truck accident is the driver themselves, but this is not the case. You may also have the right to bring a claim against the truck company. If you can show that an employee was working within the company’s hours at the time of the accident, you could hold the company liable under a theory, known as “respondeat superior.” However, if the truck driver is an independent contractor, you might not be able to file a claim with the company. 

What happens if I was partially at fault for the accident? This will depend upon the degree of fault in your accident. If the truck driver or company was a larger percentage of fault in the accident, you might find that you are able to compensate for a wide array of damages. You should speak with your attorney as soon as possible to find out what you are able to claim.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

After you have received medical care for your injuries in a truck accident, it is imperative that you turn to the experienced help of a truck accident attorney in your time of need. At Sheftall & Associates, our accident attorneys have extensive knowledge of truck accident claims and understand how challenging it can be to navigate the legal system after one of these accidents. You have many rights to compensation at this time. Please contact our Florida law firm at 904-647-2296 for the help you deserve at this time.