An Overview of Owner-Operator Truck Accident Claims in Florida
It is not uncommon for truck drivers to own and operate their own vehicle. Indeed, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reports that there are nearly 950,000 owner-operator truck drivers nationwide. For injured victims, some unique issues can arise in owner-operator truck accident cases. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we want to ensure you know your rights. Here, our West Palm Beach trucking accident attorney provides an overview of owner-operator truck crashes in Florida.
Owner Operator Truck Drivers Must Have the Proper Liability Coverage
A truck accident with an owner operator is not fundamentally different. These truck drivers still need to have the proper liability coverage. With that being said, owner-operators are independent business owners who typically carry their own insurance coverage. The fact can sometimes complicate these cases. Another issue is that when truck drivers are owners who manage their own operations issues can arise in proving liability and getting a settlement.
Understanding Truck Accident Claims in Florida
The laws for truck accidents in Florida do not change based on whether a truck driver is an owner operator or the employee of a big company. Here are key points that injured victims should know:
- No-Fault Standard of Liability: Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system for truck accidents, including owner-operator crashes. Each party’s insurance covers their own losses regardless of who caused the crash. Drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance—which covers their initial medical expenses and lost wages.
- Fault Claims for Serious Crash: You can step outside of Florida’s no-fault insurance system after a serious collision. These claims allow victims to seek full compensation for all damages, including pain and suffering and long-term disability. Every serious truck accident with an owner operator should be thoroughly investigated by a lawyer.
- Two Year Statute of Limitations: Truck accident injury claims are time-sensitive. There is a two-year statute of limitations to file a lawsuit against another party, including when the other party is an owner-operator. A proactive approach is a must: Consult with a top West Palm Beach truck accident attorney right away after a wreck.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for an Owner-Operator Truck Accident
If you are hurt in a semi-truck accident with an owner-operator, you have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of your damages. In Florida, injured victims can recover for both economic damages and non-economic damages. Our West Palm Beach truck accident lawyers help victims seek financial compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of wages;
- Diminished earnings;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Set Up a Free Case Review With a Top-Tier West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach truck accident attorney fights for justice for injured victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a trucking accident with an owner-operator, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We represent truck accident victims throughout South Florida. Initial consultations are free and fully confidential.
Source:
bts.gov/data-spotlight/counting-transportation-workforce-nearly-1-million-self-employed#:~:text=According%20to%20FMCSA%2C%20there%20were,11.1%25%20of%20all%20truck%20drivers.
