Unfortunately, there are many different types of 18-wheeler accidents that are seen on the Florida roads. To name a few, there are roller, jackknife, underride, head-on, and rear-end accidents. All of these different types can leave an aftermath of serious, if not fatal, injuries for the involved drivers. So, if you have been made a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, follow along to find out how a proficient Broward County truck accident lawyer at The Finizio Law Group can help you in recovering your damages.
What are the causes of 18-wheeler accidents in the state of Florida?
Similar to any other auto accident, 18-wheeler accidents are commonly caused by driver negligence. Importantly, due to their sheer size and weight, truck drivers must use their breaks sooner, make their turns slower, and check their blind spots more frequently than a standard passenger vehicle. So when they fail to do so, serious accidents may result. More examples of truck driver negligence are as follows:
- Driving a truck while fatigued, which causes delayed reactions.
- Driving a truck recklessly, such as ignoring traffic signals or signs.
- Driving a truck while distracted, such as texting or operating a GPS.
- Driving a truck while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which may also be considered a criminal offense.
What types of damages can I recover after my 18-wheeler accident?
Again, similar to any other auto accident, you may recover both economic and non-economic damages after being made a victim of an 18-wheeler accident. So long as they apply to you, you may collect compensation for the following damages:
- Economic damages:
- Current and future medical bills.
- Current and future lost wages.
- Loss of future earning capacity.
- Replacement of damaged property (i.e., your automobile).
- Funeral expenses.
- Non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering.
- Disfigurement.
- Physical impairment.
- Mental anguish.
- Diminished quality of life.
- Loss of consortium.
What evidence do I need to recover my damages after my 18-wheeler accident?
In order to recover the aforementioned damages that you require to heal, you must satisfy the burden of proof. Meaning, for your truck accident claim, you must prove that your injuries and damages are a direct result of a truck driver’s negligence. You can do so by collecting the following pieces of evidence.
- A copy of the police report conducted at the scene.
- Photos and videos of your injuries, your automobile damages, and the hazards that contributed to your accident.
- The name, phone number, commercial driver’s license number, company name, etc., of the truck driver.
- A copy of your medical documents that detail the date, time, and severity of your injuries.
- A copy of your medical bills that detail the cost of necessary treatments.
If you require assistance with collecting these pieces of evidence, retain the services of a talented Broward County auto accident lawyer. Notably, we can help you in obtaining surveillance camera footage of your accident occurring. Give us a call today.
