Liability in a Palm Beach, Florida Eighteen-Wheeler Accident

A Florida big rig accident can leave an extraordinary amount of damage in its wake. On top of the probable destruction of their vehicle, the victims of a Florida truck wreck frequently suffer debilitating injuries. No matter how helpful the trucking company’s insurance adjusters may seem, they are not on your side. They are looking out for the trucking company, not for you. Their job is to settle your claim for as little as possible, even if that means leaving you with permanent disability, mountains of medical bills, and no way to make ends meet.

The insurance adjusters may lie to you and tell you that you have no case, or that your case is very simple and straightforward. In Florida truck accident cases, this is very rarely true. Semi-truck accidents are extremely different from typical auto accidents. They are very complex cases in which many different entities may be at fault. Some of the entities that may be held at fault include:

• The Truck Driver: The driver of the truck is usually at fault in some way. We will examine the situation to determine whether the driver was negligent. Were they speeding or traveling too fast for the conditions? Were they overly tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol? Are their driver’s logs up to date and in compliance with all rules and regulations?

• The Trucking Company: The trucking company may be held at fault if they knowingly allowed an uneducated or non-compliant driver to operate one of their trucks.

• The Loading Company: The loading company can be held responsible if the truck was overloaded or if the materials were improperly secured.

• The Maintenance Company: The maintenance companies must ensure that the truck is properly maintained and can safely travel along the roadways.

• The Equipment Manufacturer: There is a possibility that an equipment failure may have contributed to the accident.

• Road Maintenance: Dangerous roadway conditions, such as improper signage, lack of guardrails, insufficient lighting, and unmaintained roadways may place liability on a state or government agency.

• Other Parties: There may have been another party, such as another driver, who contributed to the accident.

If you or someone you love have been seriously injured in a Florida big rig wreck, you need to consult with an attorney. The Palm Beach accident attorneys at Fetterman & Associates are experienced in big rig accident cases. We know the tricks the insurance adjusters try to pull. We know the mistakes many truckers and trucking companies make that may contribute to an accident. We know the rules and regulations to which each trucker must adhere. Contact our office today and let us fight for you.