Representation From A North Palm Beach Truck Accident Attorney And Former Insurance Adjuster
Prior to founding Tighe Law, attorney Patrick Tighe worked for several years as a claims adjustor in the insurance industry. He has extensive experience working on complex truck accident claims. Unlike accident claims involving only passenger vehicles, accidents involving commercial trucks are subject to a completely different set of laws, and not all personal injury attorneys take on these kinds of cases. Attorney Tighe has used his deep knowledge of the law and his experience working on both sides of truck accident cases to build a long track record of success. This success was recognized by his peers, as attorney Tighe was named to the Super Lawyers list for the last five consecutive years.
Understanding The Complexities Of Truck Accident Cases
In an accident caused by a semi or a commercial truck, several parties may be at fault. It is not just the driver who may be held accountable, but also the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, the company that services the truck and possibly the company that loaded the truck. In addition, commercial truck drivers are subject to federal regulations, including:
- Limits on the number of hours behind the wheel for drivers in a given time span
- Proper inspection and maintenance of the vehicle
- Meeting all commercial driver’s license (CDL) requirements
- Following legal guidelines when loading the truck
- Use of alcohol or controlled substances when on the road
- Following proper procedures when transporting hazardous materials
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident with a big truck, you need an experienced litigator like Patrick Tighe on your side.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents, but there are other factors at play as well. Multiple parties are involved in getting a truck ready to go out on the road, and they may share in the fault or be solely responsible. Other causes of truck accidents include:
- Problems with brakes and other mechanical failures
- Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks or trailers
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Improper training of drivers
- Improper turns
- Tire blowouts
To determine who is at fault in a truck accident requires a deep knowledge of the trucking industry and how it approaches personal injury accident claims. It is not uncommon for trucking companies to have a team on call that is responsible for quickly getting to the accident scene to gather evidence and immediately start building a defense against any potential claim or lawsuit. That is why it is imperative to get in touch with our office as soon as possible after the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
Any collision is cause for concern, but truck accidents involving large commercial vehicles can raise even more worries. The answers to these common questions can offer clarity.
Why are truck accidents different than car accidents?
Truck accidents differ from car accidents in several ways. The severity of injuries and damages is often much greater in truck accidents due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Many truck accidents lead to catastrophic injuries, long-term disability, and even death.
Another difference is the possibility that multiple parties share liability for the truck accident. Potential at-fault parties include:
- Truck driver
- Cargo loader
- Trucking company
- Another motorist
- Truck owner
- Parts or truck manufacturer
Identifying all liable parties in a truck accident is critical to maximizing compensation.
Further, the trucking industry is subject to extensive federal regulations that govern driver qualifications, weight restrictions, maintenance protocols and hours of service. Violations can significantly influence a truck accident claim in favor of the victim.
Insurance requirements mark another difference. Unlike passenger cars, commercial trucks must carry hundreds of thousands in liability coverage, with higher limits for hazardous materials. With a well-prepared claim, this helps to ensure fair and adequate compensation for those severely injured in a truck accident.
How common are truck accidents in Florida?
Truck accidents are unfortunately common in Florida. The state is known for a high number of commercial vehicle crashes, often leading to numerous fatalities and injuries. The Sunshine State consistently ranks among the top states for truck accident fatalities, highlighting the significant risk that large trucks pose on its roads.
What types of trucks are in the most accidents?
Any large truck can pose accident risks, but some more so than others. Commercial vehicles that are particularly large, heavy or awkward are often involved in more accidents. Examples include:
- Semi trucks: They are large, difficult to maneuver and have long slowing and stopping distances
- Tanker trucks: These are large, heavy, have unstable liquid cargo and potentially hazardous materials
- Dump trucks: They are heavy, have a high center of gravity, are awkward to maneuver, have poor driver visibility and loose loads
- Flatbed trucks: These struggle with large, oversized loads, exposed cargo and loose or falling materials
Trucks are often involved in fatal crashes, especially on rural roads and during daylight hours. Those who survive truck accidents can face life-changing injuries and financial hardship.
Contact Tighe Law, Today
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, semi or large commercial truck, call 561-363-3947 now to set up a free initial consultation. You can also reach us using our online contact form.