Fight for Your Rights and Get the Compensation You Deserve
Truck accidents are some of the most devastating cases. The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler can cause life-altering injuries in seconds. What makes these cases even more challenging is the complexity, multiple parties, federal regulations, and powerful insurance companies are all involved. Victims need strong legal support not just to recover physically, but to stand up to the trucking industry and get the compensation they deserve.
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Florida Truck Accident Attorney
Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Other Collisions
- Heavier vehicles (up to 80,000 pounds)
- Interstate commerce regulations
- Multiple parties (drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, manufacturers)
- Federal and state laws (FMCSA regulations)
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Florida
Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often face tight delivery schedules, leading to fatigue and drowsy driving. Despite FMCSA rules limiting hours of service, many truckers exceed legal limits, causing preventable accidents.
Distracted Driving: Texting, checking GPS, eating, or using dispatch systems while driving can lead to deadly consequences. Distraction plays a role in many serious 18 wheeler crashes.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Commercial trucks require more time and distance to stop. Speeding or unsafe lane changes can cause rear end collisions, jackknife accidents, or multi car pileups.
Poor Truck Maintenance: Bald tires, worn brakes, broken lights, and other mechanical failures can cause crashes. Trucking companies are legally responsible for maintaining their fleets in roadworthy condition.
Improper Loading or Overloading: Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can cause rollover accidents or spilled loads, putting nearby drivers at serious risk.
Driving Under the Influence: While rare, some truck drivers operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications that impair alertness.
Inexperienced or Poorly Trained Drivers: Some companies cut corners by hiring unqualified or inadequately trained drivers, leading to deadly mistakes behind the wheel.
A Florida trucking lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Florida Truck Accident
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (employer)
- A maintenance contractor
- A cargo loading company
- The truck or parts manufacturer
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Florida
Call 911: Always report the crash and request medical assistance. Florida law requires you to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, symptoms like whiplash, internal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries may take time to appear. Prompt treatment protects your health and creates essential documentation.
Document the Scene: If you’re physically able, take photos or videos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and any injuries. Get contact information from witnesses.
Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company: Trucking companies and their insurers may try to get you to make recorded statements or accept a lowball settlement. Don’t speak to them without your attorney truck accident professional present.
Contact a Florida Truck Accident Attorney: An experienced lawyer for 18 wheeler accident claims can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue full compensation.
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Types of Compensation Available After a Florida Truck Accident:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation or therapy costs
- Non Economic Damages: These cover the emotional and personal toll of your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or disability
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence (such as DUI or repeated safety violations), the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
- Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, injuries tend to be more severe than in regular car accidents. We commonly see
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Internal organ damage
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
Under Florida law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Failing to file your claim on time could result in losing your right to seek compensation. There are exceptions and nuances, such as
- Delayed discovery of injuries
- Government entity involvement (shorter time limits)
- Minor victims
Don’t wait. The sooner you contact a truck collision attorney, the better your chances of preserving critical evidence and building a strong case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer? We work on a contingency fee basis, no upfront costs and no fees unless we win your case.
What if I was partially at fault? Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re less than 50 percent at fault, you can still recover compensation (reduced by your percentage of fault).
What if a loved one was killed in a truck accident? You may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of your loved one. Damages may include funeral costs, loss of support, and more.
Why Choose Graves Law
Client-Centered Approach
At Graves Law, you are more than just a case number. We take the time to understand your unique situation, listen to your concerns, and tailor our legal strategy to fit your specific goals. Our commitment is to provide legal representation that’s both compassionate and aggressive—because your outcome matters.
Transparent Communication
You deserve clear, honest answers at every stage of your case. We keep you informed with regular updates, break down legal processes into plain language, and ensure you're never left guessing about where things stand. With Graves Law, you're always in the loop.
Experienced Advocacy
With years of experience handling complex legal matters—from injury claims to business disputes—we know how to build strong cases and deliver results. Our team combines legal knowledge with strategic thinking to fight for your best possible outcome, whether in negotiations or at trial.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
After a truck accident, everyone deserves representation no matter the size of your wallet. That’s why Graves Law offers a free consultation with no obligation. Your recovery is important to us, so you don’t pay anything, not even costs, unlesswe win.
Contact Attorney Andrew Graves so that we can discuss your accident at NO CHARGE. No matter the claim, I want you to be informed of your rights. Call Attorney Andrew Graves at (407) 308-0327 or fill out the free case consultation form so we can start working today.