James Frazier | | Truck Accident
Were you involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler in Brevard County? If a negligent truck driver or trucking company caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and financial losses. Unfortunately, trucking companies and their insurers often work aggressively to minimize or deny liability. That’s where our experienced Brevard County truck accident attorneys can make a crucial difference.

Brevard County Truck Accident Attorneys | Advocating for Justice

Were you involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler in Brevard County? If a negligent truck driver or trucking company caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and financial losses. Unfortunately, trucking companies and their insurers often work aggressively to minimize or deny liability. That’s where our experienced Brevard County truck accident attorneys can make a crucial difference.

At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, we are dedicated to securing justice for accident victims in Brevard County. With a proven record of handling complex truck accident cases, we have the resources and expertise to build a strong case on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation with a skilled truck accident attorney. Call (800) 434-4327 to discuss your case.

In Florida, trucks are classified based on weight and purpose, with specific regulations applying to each type: Truck: Motor vehicles with a net weight of 5,000 pounds or less, primarily designed for transporting goods. Heavy Truck: Vehicles exceeding 5,000 pounds, used mainly for transporting goods or towing trailers. Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV): Vehicles weighing over 26,001 pounds or equipped with three or more axles, unless government-owned.

Understanding Truck Classifications in Brevard County Florida

In Florida, trucks are classified based on weight and purpose, with specific regulations applying to each type:

  • Truck: Motor vehicles with a net weight of 5,000 pounds or less, primarily designed for transporting goods.
  • Heavy Truck: Vehicles exceeding 5,000 pounds, used mainly for transporting goods or towing trailers.
  • Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV): Vehicles weighing over 26,001 pounds or equipped with three or more axles, unless government-owned.

Additional classifications include:

  • Truck Tractor: Designed to tow cargo using a fifth wheel.
  • Wrecker: Specialized for towing disabled vehicles.
  • Truck Trailer: Towed vehicles without their own power source.
  • Semi-Trailer Truck: Combines a motorized truck and a trailer that partially rests on the towing vehicle.

Understanding these classifications is essential for determining liability and calculating damages in truck accident cases.

Why Truck Accidents in Brevard County Are More Complex

Truck accidents often present unique challenges that set them apart from standard car collisions. Here’s why:

1. Extensive Evidence Requirements

Trucking companies are required to maintain detailed records, including hours-of-service logs, maintenance schedules, and electronic data from onboard systems. Analyzing these documents demands technical expertise.

2. Multiple Injured Parties

Due to the large size of commercial trucks, accidents often involve multiple victims. This can complicate settlements as insurers may try to quickly exhaust policy limits.

3. Numerous Liable Parties

Liability may involve various parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers. Identifying all responsible entities is crucial.

4. Complex Corporate Structures

Trucking companies frequently operate under layered insurance policies and corporate subsidiaries, making it challenging to pinpoint responsible parties and available coverage.

1. Extensive Evidence Requirements Trucking companies are required to maintain detailed records, including hours-of-service logs, maintenance schedules, and electronic data from onboard systems. Analyzing these documents demands technical expertise. 2. Multiple Injured Parties Due to the large size of commercial trucks, accidents often involve multiple victims. This can complicate settlements as insurers may try to quickly exhaust policy limits. 3. Numerous Liable Parties Liability may involve various parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers. Identifying all responsible entities is crucial. 4. Complex Corporate Structures Trucking companies frequently operate under layered insurance policies and corporate subsidiaries, making it challenging to pinpoint responsible parties and available coverage.

Key Trucking Regulations in Florida

Commercial trucks must adhere to strict state and federal regulations to promote safety:

  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Required for operating vehicles over 26,001 pounds or carrying hazardous materials.
  • Hours of Service Rules: Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive off-duty hours, with a mandatory 30-minute break after 8 hours.
  • Adverse Driving Conditions: Allowable driving hours may be extended in cases of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Brevard County

Truck accidents often result from negligence, such as:

  • Speeding or tailgating.
  • Reckless driving or unsafe lane changes.
  • Driver fatigue from exceeding allowed hours.
  • Distracted driving, including texting or using electronic devices.
  • Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs.
  • Mechanical failures, like faulty brakes.
  • Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo.

Severe Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents

The massive size and weight of commercial trucks frequently lead to catastrophic injuries, such as:

  • Traumatic brain injuries.
  • Spinal cord injuries or paralysis.
  • Severe burns and deep lacerations.
  • Broken bones or joint dislocations.
  • Internal organ damage or bleeding.

In fatal accidents, families may pursue wrongful death claims to seek justice and compensation for their loss.

Determining Liability in a Truck Accident

Multiple parties can be held accountable for a truck accident, including:

  • The truck driver.
  • The trucking company.
  • Cargo loaders.
  • Maintenance providers.
  • Manufacturers of defective truck parts.

Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation and legal expertise. Contacting a Brevard County truck accident attorney is essential to protect your rights.

Compensation for Truck Accident Victims

Truck accident victims in Brevard County may recover compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages: For current and future income if injuries hinder work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life.
  • Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for damaged vehicles.
  • Long-Term Care: Costs related to permanent disabilities.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

Taking the following steps after a truck accident can strengthen your claim:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and document injuries.
  2. Report the Accident: File a police report and collect witness contact information.
  3. Preserve Evidence: Take photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
  4. Consult an Attorney: A qualified truck accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation.

How Our Brevard County Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help

Our experienced Brevard County truck accident attorneys provide critical support, including:

  • Evidence Collection: Reviewing driver logs, maintenance records, and accident reports.
  • Negotiation: Managing communication with insurers and opposing lawyers.
  • Litigation: Representing you in court if a fair settlement isn’t reached.
  • Comprehensive Valuation: Ensuring all current and future damages are accounted for.
David Paul | Andrew Knopf | Brent Bigger of Paul | Knopf | Bigger - Offices in Orlando and Tampa, Florida

Contact Paul | Knopf | Bigger Today – Your Brevard County Truck Accident Attorneys

Recovering from a truck accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, our Brevard County truck accident attorneys are committed to fighting for justice and fair compensation on your behalf.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Call (800) 434-4327 to speak with an experienced attorney and start your journey to recovery.

Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve and hold negligent parties accountable.

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