TRUCKING ACCIDENT QUESTIONS

HOW ARE ACCIDENTS INVOLVING COMMERCIAL TRUCKS DIFFERENT FROM CAR ACCIDENTS?

The size of tractor trailers puts passenger cars at a serious disadvantage. Some tractor trailers can weigh over 80,000 pounds. When something that size collides with an automobile, the injuries to the occupants can be devastating and deadly.

In addition, there are sections of the Vehicle Code applicable to trucking companies and commercial truck drivers, as well as training and licensing requirements specific for truck drivers making their defense in truck accident cases more difficult and, therefore, better for plaintiffs.

WHAT IS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DOING ABOUT TRACTOR TRAILERS AND HIGHWAY SAFETY?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration controls specific regulations that trucking companies are required to follow . These complex regulations were put in place to protect accident victims of their own pockets.

ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL SAFETY LAWS RELATED TO TRUCKS AND TRUCK DRIVERS?

Yes. Specific laws and regulations are in place to protect passenger vehicle drivers and occupants from the actions of negligent truck drivers and trucking companies. State and Federal rules specify, for example, how many hours and days truck drivers can stay on the road before taking a break, the proper loading of cargo and weight the driver is carrying, and speeds for safely traveling and passing other vehicles on the highway.

WHAT DAMAGES CAN I RECOVER IN A TRUCK ACCIDENT INJURY CASE?

Plaintiffs may be entitled to compensation for past and future wages lost and medical expenses. You may also be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the truck accident. Punitive damages are possible if the conduct of the person at-fault is proven to be particularly reckless.

“Our mission is to represent deserving injured people and to fight whatever battles are necessary to help them recover all the benefits they are entitled to by law, no more, no less, in a timely manner.”

If you are in need of a Personal Injury Attorney in Ocala, Florida, please contact Daniel L. Hightower today at 352-629-7777.