Truck Accident Lawyers in Plantation, FL
Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, posing a significant danger on the roads. The sheer size and weight of these trucks mean that collisions may result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities for occupants of smaller vehicles. Notably, determining liability in these cases is complex, as it often involves not just the truck driver but also the trucking company and other potential defendants.
If you need legal help after a Plantation truck wreck, our 18-wheeler and car accident lawyers at Englander Peebles can take on powerful trucking companies and insurers to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Plantation, FL Can Handle All Types of Crashes
At Englander Peebles, our seasoned Plantation truck accident attorneys have deep legal knowledge to handle all types of tractor-trailer crashes, including:
Jackknife Accidents
These occur when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a “V” shape with the cab. This type of accident is often caused by sudden braking or slippery road conditions and can result in multiple-vehicle collisions.
Rear-End Collisions
Due to the weight and size of commercial trucks, they require more time and distance to stop. If a truck driver is distracted or following too closely, they may rear-end a smaller vehicle, leading to serious injuries.
Underride Accidents
These occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck. The results are often fatal or lead to catastrophic injuries due to the height difference between the vehicles.
T-Bone Accidents
This type of accident happens when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, often at intersections. The impact can be devastating, especially for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
Rollover Accidents
Trucks are more prone to rollovers due to their high center of gravity. These accidents can occur if the truck is speeding, makes sharp turns, or the cargo is improperly loaded.
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks require more space to make turns, particularly right turns. If a truck driver misjudges the turn or fails to check blind spots, they can collide with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Liability Insurance Coverage Minimums for Commercial Trucks in Plantation
Florida follows the federal mandate that commercial trucks should carry substantial liability insurance.
Non-Hazardous Cargo
- Weight Requirement: Trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $750,000
Oil Transport
- Weight Requirement: Any truck, regardless of weight, transporting oil
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $1 million
Hazardous Substances
- Weight Requirement: Any truck transporting hazardous materials, including explosives, radioactive materials, or certain chemicals
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $5 million
Why You Want Our Truck Crash Injury Lawyers on Your Side
Here’s why legal representation from our experienced Plantation truck accident attorneys at Englander Peebles can make all the difference to your case.
Large Commercial Truck Accident Claims are Complicated
Determining liability in a truck accident typically involves more than just the truck driver. The trucking company, maintenance providers, cargo loaders, and even vehicle manufacturers can all be potential defendants. Given the severe injuries and damages typical in truck accidents, it’s wise to enlist the help of our Plantation truck crash attorneys to take on these powerful defendants.
Evidence in Truck Accident Cases Can Disappear or Deteriorate Fast
Trucks often have electronic logging devices (ELDs) or black boxes that record vital data like speed, braking, and hours of service. However, this data can be lost or erased if not quickly downloaded and secured. Similarly, physical evidence like skid marks and surveillance footage can disappear, and witness memories can fade over time. Our truck accident lawyers in Plantation will move fast to gather and preserve all evidence to build a strong case.
Trucking Companies and Insurance Giants Will Dispute Liability
Trucking companies and their insurers are experienced in minimizing liability and have legal teams working to defend against claims. They may attempt to shift blame onto the victim or argue that the accident was unavoidable. Our attorneys at Englander Peebles are prepared to counter these tactics, using our full legal might to hold all negligent parties accountable.
Trucking Accident Trial Preparation Requires Extensive Resources
Preparing a truck accident case for trial is a complex process that involves extensive investigation, evidence gathering, and expert testimony. We work with accident reconstructionists, trucking industry experts, and other specialists to analyze the accident and establish liability. Our team is committed to preparing every case as if it will go to trial, putting pressure on the defendants to settle fairly.
To schedule your free consultation, call us at 954-500-4878 or contact us online.