Fort Myers Truck Accident Lawyers

Protecting Your Rights After a Truck Accident in Fort Myers

Fort Myers, a bustling hub with its proximity to I-75 and other major highways, sees frequent truck traffic. From Ave Maria, and Immokalee, to Fort Myers, Estero, Cape Coral, Captiva, Bonita Springs, Sanibel, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Lehigh Acres, Northport, Naples, and all the way down to Marco Island Southwest Florida has seen a rapid increase in commercial truck activity between new development and hurricane cleanup and repair over the past three decades.  Subdivisions and entire communities are being built that used to be wilderness and roadways are being built with lane widening all across Southwest Florida. Unfortunately, this traffic increases the risk of accidents involving commercial trucks, dump trucks including 18-wheelers, Amazon Trucks, FedEx trucks, UPS trucks, Publix trucks, and just about every major trucking company operating between Miami and Tampa. 

For almost three decades we have been involved with helping individuals and families recover for claims caused by these trucking companies in Southwest Florida ranging from car carriers to 18-wheelers, dump trucks, box trucks moving vans, and last-mile delivery companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, hiring an experienced Fort Myers truck accident lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.  We know from experience that immediately after a commercial motor vehicle accident the driver and trucking company contact their insurance company and jump into action.  They photograph the scene, take measurements, download Black Box data from Vehicles, take witness statements, and do everything they legally can to minimize the amount of money that will be paid out to the victims while the victims are trying to get medical care they desperately need fighting for their life. Evidence disappears and the memories of witnesses fade.  Unfortunately, this is the time when the victim and their family need to contact an attorney to protect their rights. This is where Coffey McPharlin professionals come in with a team of investigators and expert witnesses to help preserve evidence and prove your case.  We guarantee there is no fee or cost to you unless we obtain a recovery for the victim.  We endeavor to work tirelessly together on evidence, witness statements, and information in an effort to put you on a level playing field with trucking companies and insurance company giants.

Why You Need a Truck Accident Attorney in Fort Myers?

Truck accident cases are far more complex than typical car accidents. Factors such as federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and substantial damages make it essential to have a skilled truck accident attorney on your side. A knowledgeable attorney will investigate your case, identify liable parties, and fight for the maximum compensation. 

We know from experience that immediately after a commercial motor vehicle accident the driver and trucking company contact their insurance company and jump into action.  They photograph the scene, take measurements, download Black Box data from Vehicles, take witness statements, and do everything they legally can to minimize the amount of money that will be paid out to the victims while the victims are trying to get medical care they desperately need fighting for their life.  Evidence disappears and the memories of witnesses fade.  Unfortunately, this is the time when the victim and their family need to contact an attorney to protect their rights. This is where Coffey McPharlin professionals come in with a team of investigators and expert witnesses to help preserve evidence and prove your case.  We guarantee there is no fee or cost to you unless we obtain a recovery for the victim.  We endeavor to work tirelessly together on evidence, witness statements, and information in an effort to put you on a level playing field with trucking companies and insurance company giants.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fort Myers

Truck accidents in Fort Myers often stem from a combination of driver errors, negligence, and external factors. Common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue: Federal hours-of-service rules limit driving time, but violations occur, leading to exhausted drivers and accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Using cell phones or other devices diverts a driver’s attention, increasing the risk of collisions.
• Improper Maintenance: Neglecting routine checks can result in mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Excess weight or unbalanced loads can destabilize trucks, making accidents more likely.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Heavy rain and slick roads in Fort Myers heighten the risk of jackknifing and hydroplaning.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause devastating injuries, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Resulting in long-term cognitive or physical challenges.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Potentially leading to paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Severe impacts often cause multiple fractures.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding are common in high-impact crashes.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, many accidents result in fatalities, leaving families facing emotional and financial challenges.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

After a truck accident in Fort Myers, your actions can significantly impact your claim:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health, even if injuries are not immediately apparent.
2. Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to create an official accident report.
3. Document Evidence: Photograph the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and gather witness information.
4. Consult an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer: Contact an attorney specializing in truck accidents like Coffey McPharlin to ensure your rights are protected.

Determining Liability in a Trucking Accident

Liability in truck accidents can be complex, often involving multiple parties:

• Truck Drivers: Negligent actions, such as speeding or distracted driving, make drivers directly liable.
• Trucking Companies: Employers can be held accountable for unsafe practices, including inadequate training or vehicle maintenance.
• Freight Forwarders and Brokers: Shippers, Brokers, and Freight forwarders as well as third-party Logistics providers select and hire motor carriers to transport goods. If a broker does not exercise reasonable care in the selection and hiring of competent and careful motor carriers to make calls it may be held liable under the theory of negligent hiring. 
• Cargo Loaders: Improperly secured loads can lead to accidents, making loaders liable.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: Defective parts, such as faulty brakes, may place responsibility on manufacturers.

Compensation Available to Truck Accident Victims

Truck accident victims in Fort Myers may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, rehabilitation, and future treatments.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to injury recovery.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement for damaged vehicles and belongings.
• Loss of Consortium: Support for families affected by a loved one’s injury or death.

How a Fort Myers Trucking Accident Lawyer Can Help

At Coffey McPharlin, our Fort Myers trucking accident lawyers provide comprehensive legal support, including:

• In-Depth Investigations: Analyzing accident reports, driver logs, and maintenance records to uncover negligence. 
• Dealing with Insurance Companies:  Locating the companies involved with an 18-wheeler accident and finding all of the insurance policies available to pay damages from the accident is one of the most important things that a truck accident lawyer can do to help you or your family after a truck accident that causes serious injuries. Trucking companies are oftentimes not helpful and will not identify this information on a voluntary basis.  Sometimes insurance companies will hire lawyers to file a lawsuit saying they don’t have to provide insurance coverage for an accident caused by somebody that they insure called that action for declaratory judgment. Trucking companies often have aggressive insurers. We negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation after we locate all available insurance.
• Trial Representation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to advocate for you in court. However, in our experience, most cases can be settled without having to go to a jury trial.

Why Choose Coffey McPharlin?

With a proven track record of handling truck accident cases, Coffey McPharlin is committed to delivering results for our clients in Fort Myers. We offer:

• Extensive Experience: Nearly 30 years of successfully managing complex truck accident cases to help individuals and their families recover financially and to put together lifecare planning for those people hurt in truck accidents.
• Personalized Service: Tailored strategies to fit your unique circumstances. 
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact A Fort MyersTruck Accident Lawyer Today!

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Let the experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyers at Coffey McPharlin guide you through the legal process. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve and help you rebuild your life. Contact us today at (954) 289-6316 for a free consultation. We’re Good Lawyers Helping People!