Wesley Chapel Truck Accident Lawyer

White big rig truck making a left turn.

Did you or someone you love suffer serious injuries in a Wesley Chapel truck accident? Don’t let the responsible parties escape accountability. The skilled attorneys at Zervos & Calta, PLLC can demand the justice and rightful compensation you deserve. Contact us now to learn more in a free, no-obligation consultation.

 

 

What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Wesley Chapel?

Truck collisions can happen for various reasons, many of which are entirely preventable. Common causes of truck accidents in Wesley Chapel include:

  • Driver fatigue – Truck driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Truckers often work long hours and odd schedules, which can lead to drowsiness and impaired judgment behind the wheel. This increases the risk of crashes, especially on highways and busy roads.
  • Distracted driving – Distracted driving is a significant problem for all motorists, including truck drivers. Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS can take a driver’s attention from the road, resulting in delayed reaction times and potential collisions.
  • Improper maintenance – Trucks require regular upkeep to ensure they are safe to operate. Neglecting to perform routine checks or repairs on brakes, tires, or other critical components can lead to mechanical failures and truck wrecks.
  • Speeding – Exceeding official speed limits or driving too fast for road and weather conditions increases the distance a truck requires to stop. This can make it difficult for drivers to react to sudden changes or obstacles, increasing the risk of collisions.
  • Impaired driving – Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Truckers who drive while impaired put themselves and others at risk of serious collisions.
  • Improper loading – Improper loading or cargo securement can cause shifts in weight distribution, making a truck unstable and challenging to control. This can lead to rollovers, jackknifing, or collisions with average passenger vehicles.
  • Poor road conditions – Poorly maintained roads with potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris can make it difficult for truck drivers to maintain control. Truckers who experience sudden jolts or must swerve to avoid hazards are more likely to crash due to cargo shifts or rollovers.

What Types of Truck Accidents Happen in Wesley Chapel?

Wesley Chapel truck accidents can take many different forms, each with unique characteristics and potential consequences. Here are some of the common types of truck accidents that occur in Florida:

What Injuries Can Result from Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can cause a wide range of injuries due to the immense size and weight of commercial vehicles, which carry massive forces on impact. Common types of truck accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Skull fractures
  • Concussions
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Internal injuries
  • Organ damage
  • Burn injuries
  • Disfigurement
  • Scarring
  • Whiplash
  • Herniated discs
  • Amputations
  • Lacerations
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Taking photo in truck accident.

Who Is Liable for My Wesley Chapel Truck Accident?

Determining liability is essential for seeking compensation after a truck accident injury in Wesley Chapel. Truck wreck cases often involve multiple potentially liable parties. Below are some examples of parties that could be responsible for a truck accident:

  • Truck drivers – The truck driver bears primary responsibility for operating the vehicle safely and following traffic laws. As a result, they can be at fault if they cause accidents through negligence like speeding, distracted driving, or driving while intoxicated.
  • Other drivers – In multi-vehicle accidents involving commercial trucks, other drivers who violate traffic laws or operate their vehicles negligently could share liability for the collision.
  • Trucking companies – Trucking companies are responsible for properly maintaining their vehicles, enforcing safety regulations, and ensuring their drivers are qualified and well-trained. Failure to uphold these duties can lead to liability if it contributes to an accident.
  • Cargo loaders – Improper cargo loading or securing can cause weight imbalances, leading to rollovers or lost loads on the road. In these cases, a cargo loading team or facility could be at fault.
  • Truck manufacturers – If defective truck parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, cause an accident, the manufacturer could be liable for producing an unsafe vehicle.

What Compensation Can I Seek for My Injuries?

Collisions with commercial vehicles tend to result in severe injuries, which come with significant expenses and losses. If you get hurt in a truck accident in Wesley Chapel, you could be entitled to compensation for the harm you suffered, including your:

What Should I Do If I Have Been in a Truck Accident in Wesley Chapel?

The aftermath of a truck accident can be confusing and overwhelming, but you can take the following straightforward steps to protect your rights and set yourself up for a successful claim:

  • Gather contact and insurance details from all parties involved.
  • Take pictures of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
  • Collect contact information from any witnesses.
  • Save evidence like damaged clothing or property.
  • Seek prompt medical attention, even if you don’t think you got hurt.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
  • Keep a journal documenting your recovery progress.
  • Contact a knowledgeable truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
  • Report the accident to your insurance company promptly.
  • Avoid discussing fault or providing recorded statements.
  • Keep detailed records of all crash-related expenses and losses.
  • Refrain from posting about the accident on social media.
  • Do not accept any settlement offers without legal counsel.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Florida?

In Florida, you have two years from the date of a truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you wait too long to act, the court will likely dismiss your personal injury case, preventing you from recovering any compensation for your losses.

Given this strict filing deadline, it’s best to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident. They can quickly evaluate your case, gather necessary evidence, and file all claim paperwork within the required timeframe. They will handle every aspect of your claim efficiently, leaving you free to focus on your recovery.

Contact a Wesley Chapel Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a Wesley Chapel truck accident, don’t hesitate to take action. The dedicated law firm of Zervos & Calta, PLLC is here to fight for you. Contact us today to get started with your free initial consultation.