Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Florida Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Understanding Tractor Trailer Accidents in Florida

Tractor trailer accidents are among the most devastating on Florida roads, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Due to their size and weight, these vehicles pose significant risks to other road users. In 2019, Florida recorded 33,166 traffic accidents involving heavy trucks, highlighting the critical need for specialized legal representation for victims.

Common Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents

Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help in preventing them and determining liability:

1. Driver Error
   • Distracted Driving: Using mobile phones, eating, or other distractions can lead to catastrophic accidents.
   • Fatigue: Long hours on the road can cause drivers to become fatigued, impairing their reaction times and decision-making abilities.
   • Intoxication: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is particularly dangerous for truck drivers, given the potential for massive damage.
   • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
2. Vehicle Performance Issues
   • Maintenance Failures: Poorly maintained trucks are prone to mechanical failures such as brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine problems, which can cause serious accidents.
   • Loading Issues: Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, affecting the truck’s balance and leading to rollovers or loss of control.
3. Environmental Factors
   • Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents.
   • Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and high winds can impair visibility and vehicle control, leading to accidents.

Legal Implications of Tractor Trailer Accidents

Legal Implications of Tractor Trailer Accidents

1. Federal Regulations
   • Hours of Service: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict guidelines on the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
   • Vehicle Maintenance Standards: Regular inspections and maintenance are mandated to ensure that trucks are safe for operation.
   • Driver Qualifications: Truck drivers must meet specific health and safety standards to be qualified to operate heavy vehicles.
2. State Regulations
   • Florida Traffic Laws: Specific state laws regulate how trucks must operate on Florida roads, including speed limits and safe driving practices.

Steps to Take After a Tractor Trailer Accident

Steps to Take After a Tractor Trailer Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure that you and any other injured parties receive immediate medical attention. Document all injuries and treatments as they are crucial for your claim.
2. Report the Accident: Notify law enforcement and ensure that an official accident report is filed. This report will be an essential piece of evidence in your case.
3. Gather Evidence: Collect contact information from witnesses, take photographs of the accident scene, and document any visible damages and injuries.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, as this could affect your claim.
5. Contact a Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer: Reach out to experienced attorneys at Coffey McPharlin to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.

How Coffey McPharlin Can Help

At Coffey McPharlin, our team of experienced tractor trailer accident lawyers is dedicated to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:

1. Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We offer a thorough assessment of your case to determine the best legal strategy. This includes reviewing accident reports, medical records, and any other relevant evidence.
2. Expert Negotiation: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can effectively communicate with insurance companies to secure fair settlements. We ensure that you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
3. Aggressive Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our team is prepared to take your case to court. We have a strong track record of success in litigating complex tractor trailer accident cases.
4. Access to Resources: We work with a network of experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, to build a robust case on your behalf.
5. Personalized Support: We understand the emotional and financial toll that a tractor trailer accident can take on victims and their families. Our attorneys provide compassionate and personalized support throughout the legal process.

Contact Coffey McPharlin Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor trailer accident, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The experienced attorneys at Coffey McPharlin are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’re Good Lawyers Helping People!

Call us today at (954) 289-6316 to schedule a free consultation.