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24 Jan

Different Types of Truck Accidents & How Does the Law Apply

By Melissa Hidalgo

Truck accidents are among the most severe and complex incidents on the road. Their sheer size and weight make them capable of causing catastrophic damage, and the legal implications often span multiple jurisdictions and involve several parties. In this blog, you will understand the different types of truck accidents and how the law addresses them is crucial to anyone involved in such a case.

Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents come in various forms, each with unique causes and consequences. Recognizing these types can help identify liability and prevent future occurrences.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out at an angle, forming an "L" or "V" shape with the truck. These are often caused by sudden braking or slippery roads. They can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to devastating pile-ups.

Rear-End Collisions

Given their size, trucks require more time to stop. Rear-end collisions often happen when trucks follow vehicles too closely or when other drivers brake suddenly. The impact can crush smaller vehicles, causing severe injuries.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers occur when trucks lose balance, often due to sharp turns or uneven weight distribution in the trailer. This type of accident can lead to widespread damage, especially on highways.

Underride Accidents

In underride accidents, smaller vehicles slide under the truck’s trailer, often resulting in fatalities. These are some of the most dangerous types of collisions and usually occur when trucks stop abruptly.

Blind Spot Collisions

Trucks have larger blind spots than regular vehicles, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller cars. These collisions happen when vehicles linger in these blind spots for too long.

T-Bone Accidents

T-bone collisions often occur at intersections when trucks fail to stop at red lights or when other vehicles misjudge a truck's speed. The impact is usually devastating for the smaller car involved.

If you’ve been involved in any of these accidents, consulting a Florida Truck accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case.

How The Law Applies To Truck Accidents?

Truck accident cases are governed by a combination of state and federal laws. These laws aim to protect victims and hold negligent parties accountable.

Determining Liability

Liability in truck accidents is often shared among multiple parties. The truck driver, the trucking company, and even the manufacturer of truck parts can be held accountable. For example:

  • Truck Driver: Negligence like distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence.
  • Trucking Company: Failing to maintain vehicles or pushing drivers to exceed federally mandated hours.
  • Manufacturer: Defective parts like brakes or tyres lead to accidents.

A truck accident lawyer in Orlando can investigate the details of your case to identify all liable parties.

Federal Regulations

The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations include:

  • Hours of Service: Limits on how long drivers can operate without rest.
  • Weight Limits: Restrictions on how much cargo a truck can carry.
  • Vehicle Maintenance: Requirements for regular inspections and repairs.

When these regulations are violated, they can serve as evidence of negligence in a lawsuit.

Compensation for Victims

Victims of truck accidents may be eligible for various forms of compensation, including:

  • Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, medications, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages: Compensating for time missed at work due to injuries.
  • Pain and Suffering: Addressing emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.

A Florida Truck Accidents Lawyer ensures that victims receive fair compensation for their losses.

Comparative Negligence in Florida

Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning a victim’s compensation can be reduced based on their share of fault. For instance, if you were 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

Working with a skilled truck accident attorney in Orlando can help minimize fault and maximize compensation.

Why Legal Representation Matters?

Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than regular car accident claims due to the number of parties involved and the intricate laws governing the trucking industry. Victims often face powerful trucking companies and their insurers, who have vast resources and legal teams to minimize payout. Without proper legal representation, navigating these challenges can be overwhelming and may result in inadequate compensation.

An experienced truck accident attorney in Orlando understands the nuances of federal and state regulations, such as those set by the FMCSA. They gather critical evidence, including driver logs, maintenance records, and accident reports, to build a strong case. Attorneys also handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring victims receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If necessary, they represent clients in court to secure justice. With the help of a skilled attorney, victims can focus on recovery while their legal rights are effectively protected.

The Bottom Line

Truck accidents can turn lives upside down in an instant, leaving behind physical, emotional, and financial scars. Knowing the types of accidents and the legal protections available empowers victims to take control of their journey toward justice. With the right legal guidance, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A skilled attorney can help you rebuild, recover, and secure the compensation you deserve, turning a daunting process into a path toward hope and closure.