Coral Gables Accident Lawyers: How USAttorneys.com Can Help with Your Truck Accident Case
Truck accidents can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. Given the bustling highways of Florida and the critical role of the trucking industry in the U.S. economy, it’s no surprise that truck-related accidents are prevalent in the state. If you are injured in a truck accident in Coral Gables, Florida, an experienced truck accident attorney from USAttorneys.com can provide the legal assistance you need to navigate this challenging situation.
The Prevalence of Truck Accidents
The U.S. economy relies heavily on truck transport, which generates nearly $700 billion in shipped goods annually. Florida highways are particularly busy with tractor-trailers, box trucks, and tankers, contributing to the state’s high incidence of truck accidents. The trucking industry’s demand for timely deliveries often results in drivers staying on the road for extended periods or engaging in distracted driving behaviors, such as eating while driving.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to the high risk of truck accidents, including:
Fatigue and Distracted Driving
Truck drivers often face long hours on the road without adequate breaks, leading to fatigue. Falling asleep at the wheel or failing to pay full attention to the road can cause catastrophic accidents.
Size and Weight
A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to the average car’s 4,000 pounds. The sheer size and weight disparity can result in severe injuries or fatalities for passenger vehicle occupants in collisions.
Height
Tractor-trailers have a higher center of gravity, making them prone to rollovers or jackknife situations, especially in adverse weather conditions or when cargo shifts.
Reduced Braking Distances
It takes 40% more braking time for a tractor-trailer to stop compared to a passenger vehicle. This increased stopping distance can lead to accidents, particularly in emergency situations.
Blind Spots
The length of a tractor-trailer creates significant blind spots directly in front, behind, and on each side of the truck. If a passenger vehicle is in one of these blind spots, the truck driver may not see it.
Cargo Load
Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, making it difficult for the driver to control the truck and increasing the likelihood of rollovers or jackknife accidents.
Hazmat Transport
Many commercial trucks transport hazardous materials, which can pose serious environmental and health risks if spilled in an accident.
Delayed or Slow Start
Tractor-trailers require more time and distance to reach highway speeds, especially when merging. This can lead to rear-end collisions or underride accidents.
Damage Recovery Through Insurance and Legal Action
In Florida, accident victims can file a personal injury claim under the state’s No-Fault Insurance Law. This law mandates that costs incurred from an accident are primarily covered by the injured person’s own insurance for non-serious injuries. However, in cases involving severe injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage, victims can pursue additional compensation through legal action.
Florida follows the “pure comparative negligence rule,” meaning compensation is adjusted based on each party’s percentage of fault in the accident. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is four years, so it’s crucial to initiate legal action within this timeframe.
How USAttorneys.com Can Help
An experienced truck accident attorney can assist with:
- Assessing property damage and bodily injuries.
- Navigating liability insurance claims, including uninsured motorist coverage.
- Recovering lost wages and loss of income.
- Managing medical bills and other expenses.
- Determining fault and building a strong case for compensation.
Contact an Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Coral Gables, Florida, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact USAttorneys.com to connect with a skilled accident lawyer who can guide you through the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
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