Would a Truck Driver Ever Be Charged With a Crime After a Crash?
A truck accident claim is a civil legal case. You can hold a negligent trucker (and truck company) responsible for a serious injury in a crash. In some cases, a trucker could also face a criminal charge for misconduct. Here, our West Palm Beach truck accident attorney explains the most common reasons why a trucker could be charged with a crime after a crash in South Florida.
A Trucker Could Be Charged With a Crime After a Crash in Florida
Not every truck accident results in criminal charges. Many crashes happen because of ordinary negligence. Those cases are typically handled through civil claims. Still, when a truck driver’s actions demonstrate a reckless disregard for human life, criminal liability may follow. Florida law allows prosecutors to charge drivers who act with gross negligence, willful misconduct, or unlawful behavior that directly causes harm. The decision often depends on the severity of the crash, whether people were seriously injured, and the specific facts surrounding the driver’s conduct.
Most Common Criminal Charges for Truck Drivers
Here are some of the most common reasons why a trucker may face a criminal charge in Florida:
- Driving With a Suspended License: Florida law requires all commercial drivers to maintain a valid license. If a trucker causes a crash while operating on a suspended or revoked license, criminal charges are likely. The offense shows a blatant disregard for the law and public safety.
- Intoxicated Driving: Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious offenses a trucker can commit. Because of the size and weight of tractor trailers, alcohol or drug impairment significantly magnifies the risk of catastrophic injuries and fatalities.
- Reckless Driving: A trucker who drives in a manner that demonstrates a willful disregard for safety (such as excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, or ignoring traffic signals) may be charged with reckless driving. When a reckless truck driver causes a crash with injuries, the offense can escalate to a felony under Florida law.
Civil and Criminal Cases are Different
It is important to understand the difference between civil and criminal proceedings. A criminal charge against a truck driver is pursued by the State of Florida with the goal of punishment, such as jail, probation, or fines. A civil case, on the other hand, is filed by the victim to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. The two cases can proceed at the same time, but they are separate and distinct legal matters.
Call Our West Palm Beach Commercial Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach commercial truck accident lawyer has the experience that you can trust even in the most complex of cases. Hurt in a bad accident? We are here to help. Call us now or contact us online for a free, no obligation case review. With an office in West Palm Beach, we handle tractor trailer accident cases throughout all of South Florida.
