Tallahassee Truck Accident Attorney

Committed to Helping Our Clients Get the Compensation They Deserve

Truck accidents are among the most catastrophic and deadly motor vehicle accidents. These collisions often have devastating consequences for victims and their families, who are left to grapple with the aftermath of these preventable tragedies.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a collision with a large truck, you have the right to take legal action against the responsible party. At Perry & Young, our Tallahassee truck accident attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured individuals and their families.

For more than 15 years, our firm has been serving individuals and families throughout Florida. We have a proven track record of success, having recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we are prepared to advocate for you, too aggressively. Our team understands the complexities of truck accident cases, and we know how to fight for your maximum compensation.

Have you been involved in a truck accident? Call Perry & Young today at (850) 215-7777 or contact us online for a FREE consultation and personalized legal guidance!

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are often caused by the negligence of one or more parties. In some cases, the truck driver is to blame for the collision. In other cases, the collision is caused by the trucking company’s negligence, the truck manufacturer’s negligence, or the negligence of another party.

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

• Truck driver fatigue
• Drunk driving
• Drug use
• Inadequate truck maintenance
• Defective truck parts
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Failure to yield the right of way
• Tailgating
• Failure to check blind spots
• Poor weather conditions
• Distracted driving

In addition to these causes, the complexity of modern logistics can contribute to truck accidents. Miscommunications between companies and drivers or improperly processed delivery timetables often result in rushed routes and stressed drivers. Poor management of delivery schedules can push drivers to meet nearly impossible deadlines, increasing the likelihood of errors on the road. Additionally, advances in technology, though generally positive, sometimes malfunction, leading to unexpected accidents.

Truck accidents can also be caused by poor road conditions and/or other motorists.

Who is Liable for a Truck Accident?

Truck accident claims are often more complex than standard car accident claims. This is because multiple parties could potentially be liable for a truck accident, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, and/or the company responsible for loading the truck’s cargo.

Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the following parties may be held liable for a truck accident:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/employer
• The truck owner
• The company responsible for maintaining the truck
• The company responsible for loading the truck’s cargo
• The truck manufacturer

In most cases, the truck driver’s employer can be held liable for the driver’s negligence. This is due to a legal concept known as “vicarious liability.” Under this concept, an employer can be held legally responsible for the actions of its employees so long as those actions occur within the scope of employment. Because truck drivers are typically on the job when involved in collisions, their employers can generally be liable for the resulting damages.

Moreover, cargo companies or manufacturers of truck parts can be held accountable under certain circumstances if a fault in the loading process or a defect in truck design contributed to the accident. Conducting a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties is critical, as this ensures the victim claims just compensation from all those legally responsible. Seeking guidance from a seasoned Tallahassee truck accident lawyer can help illuminate these complex liabilities.

Understanding Trucking Regulations in Florida

Florida has specific trucking regulations that are key to maintaining the safety of its roadways. These regulations mitigate the risks associated with large commercial vehicles such as 18-wheelers. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) enforces these rules, ensuring that trucking companies and drivers adhere to strict standards. This includes regulations on truck maintenance, driver qualifications, and cargo loading practices. For instance, truck drivers in Florida must adhere to hours-of-service rules to prevent fatigue-related accidents. These regulations aim to keep truck drivers and other motorists safe by reducing the chances of accidents caused by overworked or inadequately rested drivers.

Regular inspections are also mandated, emphasizing ensuring vehicle safety before commencing travels. Compliance with these checks ensures the vehicle's roadworthiness and protects all road users from potential mechanical failures. Understanding and navigating these regulations can be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with the nuances of Florida's legal and transportation systems. This is where the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney can be invaluable, mainly when dealing with the aftermath of a trucking accident. They ensure that all avenues are explored in pursuing rightful compensation, considering any regulatory breaches that may have contributed to an accident.

Timeframe for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Florida

You must act quickly if you or a loved one is injured in a truck accident. In Florida, the statute of limitations on most truck accident claims is just two years from the accident date. You have only two years to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party. If you miss this deadline, you will most likely be unable to recover any compensation for your injuries and losses.

If a truck accident resulted in the death of your loved one. In these cases, you have only two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

There are some exceptions to these general rules, but they are relatively rare. To ensure that you do not miss any critical deadlines and to increase your chances of success, it is in your best interest to reach out to an experienced truck accident attorney in Tallahassee as soon as possible after the accident.

Understanding the urgency of taking legal action is crucial. Florida law is strict about its deadlines, and once a statute of limitations has expired, accessing the legal system for compensation becomes exceedingly difficult. This limitation underscores the importance of swift action post-accident, ensuring legal rights are preserved. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help clarify individual timelines and gather evidence promptly, which is often pivotal in building a strong case.

Available Damages in Truck Accident Lawsuits

If you were injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for various economic and non-economic damages. In some instances, you may also be able to seek punitive damages.

Some of the most common damages available in a truck accident lawsuit include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental and emotional anguish
• Disfigurement
• Disability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of companionship
• Funeral/burial expenses (in wrongful death cases)
• Loss of income/financial support (in wrongful death cases)
• Punitive damages

In addition to general damages, victims can sometimes pursue compensation for specific costs associated with long-term rehabilitation and therapy, which are often necessary for full recovery. It's also important to consider future costs, including ongoing medical care or the need for adaptive equipment or home modifications. These damages aim to restore a sense of normalcy and financial stability to those affected by the accident. Engaging a proficient Tallahassee truck accident lawyer can assist in evaluating the full breadth of potential damages to ensure a comprehensive claim.

How Perry & Young Can Assist You

Truck accidents can be devastating. At Perry & Young, we understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll these collisions can have on victims and their families. That is why our Tallahassee truck accident lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized legal services and aggressive advocacy for our clients.

When you choose to work with our firm, you can count on us to be there for you every step of the way. We will handle all of the legal aspects of your case so that you can focus on your recovery. We can also help you seek the maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Our team has successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we are prepared to fight for you, too. We have extensive experience handling various truck accident cases and know what it takes to win. Our attorneys are not afraid to take on large trucking companies and their insurance providers, and we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Perry & Young offers legal representation and peace of mind during difficult times. Our meticulous approach involves comprehensive case reviews, strategic planning, and leveraging resources to present your most substantial claim. Our commitment to our clients remains steadfast when negotiating settlements or navigating court proceedings. By choosing Perry & Young, you entrust your case to a team that genuinely cares about delivering justice and ensuring your voice is heard in the legal arena.

If you've been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait. Contact our experienced Tallahassee truck accident attorney at Perry & Young for help! 

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Tallahassee?

Call emergency services, ensure safety, and gather information like names, contacts, and insurance details. Take photos of the scene and injuries. Avoid discussing fault until consulting a truck accident lawyer.

How Is Fault Determined in a Truck Accident?

Evidence, including police reports, photos, and witness statements, determines fault. Investigations may assess truck driver behavior and trucking company maintenance, with multiple parties possibly responsible.

What Are Common Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can cause severe injuries like brain trauma, spinal injuries, fractures, and PTSD. Victims may face long recovery times and significant medical costs, including long-term rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments.

How Do Trucking Companies Defend Themselves Against Claims?

Trucking companies often minimize liability by questioning fault or injury severity, disputing evidence, and challenging witness credibility. A skilled lawyer can help counter these tactics and secure fair compensation.