West Palm Beach Semi-Truck Accident Attorney
Semi-trucks haul tons of freight into West Palm Beach every day of the week. Thanks to their size, these are highly visible vehicles. Nonetheless, they cause many accidents due to large blind spots and inexperienced drivers. Call our law firm if you were hurt in a wreck with an 18-wheeler. A West Palm Beach semi-truck accident attorney can discuss possible compensation in an injury claim. Contact Pike & Lustig today to schedule a free, no risk consultation.
Semi-Trucks Are Dangerous Vehicles
Semi-trucks have two parts: a cab in front where the trucker sits, and the trailer attached in the back which carries the cargo. Semi-trucks haul most of the freight around the country and regularly cross state lines. Indeed, trucks haul goods into Florida from as far away as California and Alaska.
Because the trailer attaches at a coupling to the cab, it can swing to either side, which allows the semi-truck to make turns. However, any uncommanded movement can lead to accidents as the trailer swipes the side of other vehicles or runs them over.
These are very heavy vehicles. The heavier a vehicle, the more distance it needs to come to a stop. There is also a risk of the cargo tipping the vehicle over.
Anyone driving a semi-truck will need a Commercial Driver’s License. This license is supposed to ensure truckers are competent to drive such a large vehicle. Sadly, some truckers continue to take risks or simply fail to perform their job competently. Our clients pay the price when they crash into a semi truck in a jackknife, rollover, underride, or other crash.
Can You Seek Financial Compensation for a Semi-Truck Accident?
Most semi-trucks are owned by transportation companies who are hired to haul freight. These companies will hire truckers as employees. This relationship matters legally in Florida. When an employee is negligent during their job, their employer is usually liable simply by virtue of the employment relationship.
Call our office so we can dig into the facts to find out who is at fault for the crash. In many cases the trucker is liable for driving negligently:
- Speeding
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Following too closely
- Backing up without using mirrors or a camera
- Distracted driving, including cell phone use
- Fatigued driving
Another risk is the trucker is intoxicated or has used illegal drugs like marijuana or cocaine. Thousands of truckers are suspended each month for failing mandatory drug tests. An injured victim can still receive compensation when an impaired trucker is behind the wheel.
Call Our West Palm Beach Semi-Truck Accident Attorneys to Discuss Your Accident
A West Palm Beach semi-truck accident attorney can go over your legal rights, which includes a personal injury claim for compensation. Injured motorists can receive compensation to cover medical care, rehab, prescription medication, lost wages, and car damage. We also believe you should receive compensation to make up for pain, emotional distress, and disfigurement. Contact us to connect with a member of our team for advice in a free consultation.
