Why 18 Wheeler Truck Accidents Often Result in Higher Compensation
When an 18-wheeler truck collides with a passenger vehicle on Florida’s highways, the consequences are often catastrophic. Our Florida 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers have seen firsthand how these cases typically result in more substantial compensation compared to regular car accidents. Understanding why these cases are often more valuable can help you make informed decisions about your legal options if you’ve been involved in a truck accident.
The Scale of Destruction in Big Truck Accidents
The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler truck make accidents involving these vehicles particularly devastating. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger car weighs only about 4,000 pounds. Dump truck accidents can be particularly devastating because of the weight capacity of these vehicles. This dramatic difference in size and weight often leads to severe injuries, extensive property damage, and, tragically, is one of the top 5 causes of car accident wrongful death cases. The severity of damages is one of the primary reasons why truck accident cases typically result in higher compensation.
Multiple Liable Parties Mean More Insurance Coverage
Unlike a typical Florida car accident case where there might be only one or two insurance policies to pursue, big truck accidents often involve multiple potentially liable parties. This can significantly increase the available insurance coverage and, consequently, the potential compensation. Some of the parties that may be held liable in a truck accident case include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
- The truck manufacturer
- Maintenance providers
- Parts manufacturers
Each of these parties typically carries substantial insurance policies, often in the millions of dollars. As experienced Florida 18 wheeler truck accident lawyers, we know how to identify all potentially liable parties and pursue claims against each of their insurance policies to maximize our clients’ compensation.
Federal Regulations and Higher Standards of Care
Commercial trucking is heavily regulated by federal laws, which impose strict standards on both drivers and companies. These regulations cover everything from driver training and licensing to maintenance schedules and driving hour limitations. When a violation of these regulations contributes to an accident, it can strengthen the victim’s case and potentially increase the compensation awarded.
Trucking companies are required to carry higher insurance limits than regular drivers, often between $750,000 and $5 million depending on the type of cargo. This higher insurance coverage means more funds are available for compensating victims in the event of an accident.
Complex Evidence and the Need for Quick Action
18-wheeler truck accident cases involve unique types of evidence that aren’t typically present in regular car accident cases. This evidence can be crucial in proving liability and damages, potentially increasing the value of the case. However, much of this evidence is controlled by the trucking company and can disappear quickly if not preserved.
As attorneys experienced in handling Florida truck accident cases, we know the importance of acting swiftly to preserve vital evidence such as:
- Electronic logging device (ELD) data
- Data from the truck’s “black box”
- Driver qualification files
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Load manifests
- Driver logs
- Post-accident drug and alcohol testing results
Catastrophic Injuries and Long-Term Impacts of Truck Accidents
Due to the severe nature of 18 wheeler accidents, victims often suffer catastrophic injuries that have long-lasting or permanent effects. These injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, internal organ damage, and severe burns. The more severe the injury, the higher the potential compensation, as it needs to cover extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, long-term or lifelong care needs, lost earning capacity, modifications to home or vehicles, emotional trauma and psychological counseling, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
The Role of Economic Damages in Case Value
18-wheeler truck accidents often result in significant economic damages. These damages are tangible losses that can be calculated with relative precision, including:
- Medical expenses (both current and future)
- Lost wages and benefits
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
- Home care expenses
The high value of these economic damages, particularly in cases involving long-term injuries or disabilities, contributes to the overall higher value of truck accident cases.
Pursuing Non-Economic Damages
Beyond the calculable economic damages, victims of 18 wheeler accidents may also be entitled to substantial non-economic damages. These damages, while more challenging to quantify, often form a significant portion of the overall compensation. They can include:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)
The severity of truck accidents and their often traumatic nature can justify higher non-economic damages compared to typical car accident cases.
The Impact of Commercial Truck Insurance Policies
Commercial insurance policies carried by trucking companies typically have much higher limits than personal auto insurance policies. This means there’s often more insurance coverage available to compensate victims of truck accidents. However, these policies are also defended by experienced adjusters and attorneys who will fight to minimize payouts.
As Florida truck accident lawyers, we understand the tactics used by insurance companies and know how to effectively counter them to ensure our clients receive fair compensation.
Why You Need an 18 Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer
Given the complexity and high stakes involved in truck accident cases, having experienced legal representation is crucial. Our Orlando-based law firm has a proven track record of handling 18 wheeler truck accident cases throughout Florida. We understand the nuances of trucking regulations, know how to preserve and analyze crucial evidence, and have the resources to take on large trucking companies and their insurers.
We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, life care planners, and other specialists to build strong cases that demonstrate the full extent of our clients’ damages. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that all potential avenues for compensation are explored and pursued.
Morey Law Firm, P.A.: Big Truck Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler truck accident in Florida, time is of the essence. The sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and building a strong case. Our Orlando attorneys serve clients throughout Florida and are ready to help you understand your rights and options.
We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the trucking company’s insurers minimize your claim – let us help you fight for the full and fair compensation you’re entitled to under Florida law.
Remember, the stakes are high in big truck accident cases, and the potential compensation reflects that. With experienced legal representation, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complexities of your case and work to secure the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and losses.
