Truck Accident Lawyer
Corporate trucking negligence and truck driver negligence lead to a significant amount of serious injuries and fatalities on interstates and highways each year. Sadly, many of these injuries and deaths could have been avoided.Our personal injury attorneys at Needle & Ellenberg, P.A., dedicate our practice to improving the quality of life of our clients — whether that means finding answers about a loved one’s death in an 18-wheeler accident, holding a trucking company accountable for negligent and overzealous procedures after an accident or recovering necessary compensation for medical expenses and other damages incurred in a semi truck accident.
Call our trucking accident attorneys at Needle & Ellenberg, P.A., for experienced, compassionate and dedicated legal representation in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. Based in the Miami area, we serve the needs of clients throughout South Florida.
How Did The Accident That Injured You Happen?
The investigation of commercial trucking accidents is on an entirely different level than passenger car accidents. The high level of liability imposed on trucking companies compels them to implement immediate investigation procedures and control of the accident scene. Our attorneys go to work immediately talking to witnesses, reviewing police reports, working with accident reconstruction experts and consulting with vehicle engineers. Our detailed investigation may reveal negligence by the truck driver, trucking company and others that contributed to the trucking accident:
- Truck driver fatigue caused by too many hours on the road
- Speeding to meet corporate expectations
- Alcohol or drug use, including using drugs to stay awake
- Poor maintenance or shoddy repairs
- Defective or dangerous truck parts
- History of hiring reckless drivers or drivers with a criminal or driving record
- Other negligence or defects
Investigation of a tractor-trailer accident or commercial trucking accident by your dedicated legal team should commence as soon as possible. Therefore, if you or a loved one has been involved in a serious truck accident in Florida, don’t wait.
Top Mistakes To Avoid After You Were the Victim In a Truck Accident
If you are the victim in a truck accident, it can be one of the scariest times of your life, as a truck accident lawyer in Miami, FL knows all too well. The accident may have left you with serious damage, both physically and mentally, and you may have a lifetime of treatment ahead of you. However, your truck accident case may seem open and shut. Logically, the bigger vehicle (an 18-wheeler) hit your car causing your car to total and inflict injuries on you. You think filing a personal injury claim will be simple and you should get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and for the medical bills. However, even the victim of a truck accident can make mistakes that cost them all or part of the compensation they deserve. For more information on which mistake you should avoid after you are involved in a truck accident, read below.
Mistake #1. Speaking with the other driver’s insurance company. Things can become complicated very quickly when you speak with insurance companies. Although you may need to call your insurance company to let them know of the accident and any damage that happened to your car, you are not obligated to make a statement to the trucker driver’s insurance company. They will typically try to twist your statement and coerce an admission of partial or full fault. When this happens, you will not get the full amount of compensation. When you do speak with their insurance company, it is best to have your truck accident lawyer in Miami, FL present.
Mistake #2. Not getting medical attention. This can be harmful to you physically and in terms of compensation. Too often, truck accident victims believe they may be fine after an accident and do not have a doctor examine serious and even life-threatening injuries simply because shock and adrenaline mask the pain. Insurance companies will also take note if your accident was not serious enough to require you to seek medical attention.
Mistake #3. Accepting the first offer the truck driver’s insurance company made. This can result in the victim of the accident signing away their rights to a much higher compensation in favor of getting any type of settlement check. Often, their “first and final offer” is never what they can pay you and it is likely not the amount they should be compensating you.
Mistake #4. Not calling 9-1-1. Even if the truck accident does not seem severe, you should always call 9-1-1 to have the local station dispatch an officer to the scene. When one comes, they can take an account of what happened, the evidence, and the scene where the truck accident occurred.
Mistake #5. Admitting guilt. Even if you were the victim in this truck accident, many people automatically admit that they are sorry or apologize for any involvement they may have had in the accident. This can cost you big when you fight for compensation.
Get An Attorney’s Help
When you are the victim of a truck accident, get the help you need from a truck accident lawyer in Miami, FL who will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. For more information, call the Miami, FL truck accident lawyer at Needle & Ellenberg, P.A. today.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
As a Miami truck accident lawyer can tell you, getting immediate medical treatment is critical after an accident, and it can be helpful later on if you decide to pursue a claim. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, gather witness information, and document any relevant conditions. Always contact the police to file an accident report. After these initial steps, consider reaching out to an accident lawyer to understand your legal rights and potential actions. It’s also beneficial to keep a personal record of any medical treatments or diagnoses related to the accident. Remember, timely action can play a pivotal role in building a strong case.
How is a truck accident different from a regular car accident?
Truck accidents often involve larger damages and more complex scenarios than car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of trucks. The injuries sustained can be more severe, and the damages to vehicles and property can be extensive. Additionally, the legal and regulatory environment surrounding trucking, including aspects related to truck maintenance and driver regulations, can complicate matters. The specific complexities of personal injury law necessitate the need to meet with a lawyer who can help you understand the importance of rights, so do not wait to discuss your case with one who knows how to handle car accident cases.
When should I contact a lawyer after a truck accident?
It’s a good idea to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a truck accident, especially after you’ve received medical attention and reported the accident to the police. A lawyer can help preserve vital evidence, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and guide you on the best legal course of action. A skilled Miami truck accident lawyer can help you with several tasks such as negotiation, preserving evidence and guiding you through the best legal strategies. The earlier you get in touch with a lawyer, the better equipped they’ll be to ensure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve. Plus, early intervention can provide peace of mind during a stressful and often overwhelming time.
Will my truck accident claim go to trial?
While many truck accident claims are settled outside of court, some cases might go to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Factors that influence this decision include the severity of injuries, disputes over who was at fault, or disagreements on the compensation amount. Needle & Ellenberg, P.A. has a team of experienced lawyers who are well-versed in both negotiation and litigation, ensuring you’re represented competently, whether your claim is settled outside of court or goes to trial. Remember, every case is unique, so the course of action will vary based on individual circumstances. You should always make the preparations to anticipate any and all possible outcomes.
How much will it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer in Miami?
Many Miami truck accident lawyers, including those at reputable firms, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the settlement or award from the case. If no compensation is obtained, you typically owe nothing. It’s crucial to discuss fee structures and any potential costs with your lawyer during your initial consultation. Understanding the financial aspects upfront can provide clarity and help you make informed decisions throughout the legal process. Learn more information by setting up a risk-free consultation with a Miami truck accident lawyer in your area.
Contact Us Today
Contact us for a free evaluation so our lawyers can go to work investigating the accident, preserving the evidence and preparing a comprehensive claim for compensation. Call (305) 530-0000 or 877-810-2864. Or, if you prefer, email us.