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18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Florida

18 wheeler accident attorney

The 18-wheeler accident attorney of Cardoso Law, PLLC understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these catastrophic collisions take on their victims. That is why we have dedicated ourselves to fighting on their behalf to help them get the money they need for their medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and more. If someone else caused the collision that injured you, you deserve compensation. Let us help you demand it.

We have handled many complex semi-truck cases and recovered millions of dollars for people like you. Let us put our experience, tenacity, and track record to work for you. Contact us today to discuss your legal options with a knowledgeable 18-wheeler accident attorney at no cost or obligation.

Why Are 18-Wheeler Trucks So Dangerous?

Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers are huge trucks that can weigh 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. That makes them potentially deadly when they collide with other road users.

Beyond making them deadlier in a collision, these trucks’ heavy weight also makes them harder to slow down. When loaded, they take 20 to 40 percent more space to stop than a passenger car. That number increases when on slippery roads or using poorly maintained brakes. This means drivers often do not have enough time to react in an emergency to avoid a crash.

Another reason that 18-wheelers are dangerous is because of the cargo they carry. Improperly loaded cargo can shift in transit, causing the truck to become unstable and cause collisions. When these crashes happen, the cargo is at risk of spilling onto the roadway and causing further damage

Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Pensacola, Florida

While any number of factors can contribute to a semi-truck accident in Florida, some of the most common include the following:

  • Driver fatigue – Truck drivers are tasked with getting goods where they need to go quickly, meaning they are on the road for long, uninterrupted stretches. These long hours can cause driver fatigue, inability to focus, and difficulty reacting to sudden emergencies. To combat driver fatigue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) does not allow most drivers to drive more than 11 hours in a 14-hour day.
  • Distracted driving – Like any driver, truckers can become distracted when they should be focused on the road. A driver who is not paying enough attention to driving is more likely to cause an accident.
  • Speeding – When speed increases, trucks need even more room to brake safely. The faster a truck travels, the harder it is for the driver to bring it to a stop.
  • Improper maintenance – If a truck is not maintained correctly, it is more likely to have mechanical issues that could contribute to an accident. Mechanical issues can cause brake failure, tire blowouts, and steering problems. To combat these issues, trucking companies must adequately maintain their vehicles.
  • Improper cargo loading – A truck carrying overloaded or improperly loaded cargo can become unstable, leading to a collision.
Florida Truck

Consequences of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The consequences of an 18-wheeler collision are often substantial, leaving victims with life-altering injuries, expensive medical and repair bills, and weeks or longer away from work. No one should be left paying for the effects of a truck collision that wasn’t their fault. That’s why state and federal laws require that semi-trucks carry significant liability insurance coverage, starting at $750,000.

Compensation Available for 18-Wheeler Accident Victims

If you were hurt in an 18-wheeler accident that was someone else’s fault, you can seek compensation for your losses, including:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Florida

In Florida, the statute of limitations on personal injury claims gives you four years to file suit. Failing to file within the required timeframe may bar you from recovering compensation. While four years may seem like a long time, it can pass quickly. The longer you wait to file, the more likely it is that key evidence can go missing or be destroyed. That’s why it’s important to consult with an 18-wheeler attorney as soon as possible.

How Can an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Help?

Truck Accident

An experienced Florida personal injury attorney can help you in several ways, including:

  • Investigating the collision – An attorney can dig into the facts of the case to determine what happened and who is to blame. This investigation may include interviewing witnesses to build a strong case, determining liability, and calculating the value of your compensable losses.
  • Negotiating with the insurance company – Once you file an insurance claim in your case, the company will assign an insurance adjuster to review it. Adjusters are tasked by their employers to deny claims when possible and pay out as little as possible when they do pay. Having an attorney negotiate with the adjuster on your behalf can make a substantial difference in your settlement.
  • Providing legal guidance and support – Pursuing compensation is complicated, and you may have many questions as your case progresses. Your attorney will keep you informed and be available to answer any questions. They can handle everything for you so you have one less thing to worry about.
  • Representing you in court – If the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair settlement, an attorney can represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact the Florida 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys at Cardoso Law, PLLC for Help

Contact the Florida 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys at Cardoso Law, PLLC for Help

If you were hurt in an 18-wheeler collision in Pensacola, Florida, the Pensacola personal injury lawyers at Cardoso Law, PLLC are here to help. Our truck accident lawyer has secured millions of dollars for people in similar positions and is eager to put this experience to work on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Florida 18-wheeler accident lawyer and tell us your story.

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