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Avoidable negligence often contributes to semi-truck accidents, leading to numerous personal injury claims and lawsuits for damages. Analyzing truck accidents and Florida truck accident statistics uncovers several intriguing and essential facts. Understanding more about semi-truck accidents can help you respond if you are involved in one.
Florida Truck Accident Statistics: Understanding Frequency and Impact
Florida’s roads are populated by thousands of semi-trucks at any given time, making semi-truck accidents a frequent occurrence. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), Florida truck accident statistics reveal there were over 33,000 accidents involving trucks weighing more than 10,000 lbs in 2021 alone.
This statistic translates to an average of 92.69 semi-truck accidents per day in 2021. Further analysis reveals that 124 people suffered incapacitating injuries, such as severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury, or amputations.
Non-incapacitating injuries totaled 468, and crash victims with potential injuries numbered 983. Possible injuries refer to cases where an individual shows no visible signs of injury but complains of pain or temporary loss of consciousness.
Why Are Truck Accidents So Devastating?
The sheer size and speed of semi-trucks play a crucial role in the severity of accidents. Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and even at low speeds, this massive weight can cause significant destruction.
The extensive size of semi-trucks, often over 70 feet long, means they have a considerable impact footprint during accidents. While a typical car accident might involve one or two vehicles, a semi-truck can affect many more, exacerbating the damage and potential injuries.
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Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, staying calm and carefully assessing the situation is crucial. Florida law requires you to report accidents immediately, so contacting the police is essential. If there are injuries, call first responders right away.
Prioritize Safety
At the scene of the accident, prioritizing safety is paramount. Move to a safe location if possible, and if your vehicle is operable, try to remove it from the flow of traffic to prevent further accidents.
Be Mindful of Your Statements
Exercise caution with your words at the accident scene. In a compensation claim, statements like “I’m sorry” or “I shouldn’t have” can be used against you. Also, avoid discussing your activities before and during the accident with anyone, including the police and other drivers.
Contact a Florida Truck Accident Lawyer
Contact a Florida truck accident lawyer to represent you as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can take control of your case, aiming to secure maximum damages while you focus on recovering from the accident.
Florida Truck Accidents: Frequently Asked Questions
Who Can I Sue for Damages After a Semi-Truck Accident?
Florida’s laws on semi-truck accidents and compensation are detailed and specific. To determine the liable parties, each accident must be thoroughly examined.
Initially, you must seek compensation from your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which covers limited medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. However, you can sue a semi-truck driver in various scenarios, such as:
- If you suffered a serious injury.
- If your medical bills exceed $10,000.
- If the truck driver was from out of state.
- If the truck driver was legally drunk and caused the accident.
You may also sue the trucking company employing a negligent driver. Under vicarious liability, employers can be held responsible for their employees’ negligence. Trucking companies might also face lawsuits for:
- Negligent hiring practices.
- Failure to remove dangerous drivers from service.
- Inadequate equipment or vehicle maintenance.
- Negligent supervision and training.
- Allowing drivers to exceed legal driving hours.
Also, shipping companies, repair shops, and truck manufacturers might be liable for improper cargo loading, faulty repairs, or defective vehicle parts.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover?
The amount of compensation depends on the specifics of your accident. PIP insurance provides:
- Limited coverage for medical expenses.
- 60% of lost income.
- A death benefit in fatal cases.
However, you could recover significantly more if you can sue for full damages due to a severe injury or because the semi-truck driver was out of state.
To understand the potential compensation for your case, schedule a consultation with one of our semi-truck accident lawyers at Paul | Knopf | Bigger. We have offices in Winter Park / Orlando and Tampa. However, we can come to you wherever you are.
How Long Do I Have to Sue for a Semi-Truck Accident?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a semi-truck accident is two years from the date of the incident. After this period, your claim becomes invalid. Taking quick action increases your chances of receiving the financial recompense you deserve.
Truck Accident? A Semi-Truck Lawyer Can Help
If you’re dealing with injuries and losses from a semi-truck accident, do not accept any insurance settlements until you consult with Paul | Knopf | Bigger. Our semi-truck accident lawyers will review your case at no charge, ensuring you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Sources:
- https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2021.pdf
- http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html