Laws That May Impact Your Truck Accident Claim in Florida
Truck accidents involving semis and other commercial trucks are understandably more deadly than traditional accidents involving passenger vehicles. Unfortunately, Florida ranks number three in the country regarding fatal truck accidents.
Each year, more than 300 accidents involve tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, and large commercial vehicles. Only California and Texas have more.
If you are ever involved in a truck accident, hiring a Stuart personal injury lawyer is highly recommended. However, it's also good to know some of the laws related to these accidents.
Florida Fault Laws
Many states have an at-fault law. However, in Florida, there is a no-fault law for vehicle accidents. If you are involved in a crash, you file a claim with your insurance provider. There's no need to prove someone else was responsible for the crash. However, you will be limited to receiving just a portion of your losses unless you experience a severe bodily injury. If you did get hurt badly, which isn't unlikely in truck accident cases, it's possible to pursue compensation. To do this, you must file a claim with the driver's or company's insurer.
Comparative Fault
Florida law will also consider your negligence in your truck accident claim. If you were careless while behind the wheel, it might reduce the monetary damages you receive. The comparative fault element will reduce your compensation by your percentage of fault for the crash.
Negligence Laws
If you experience a loss of bodily function or serious injuries, you must prove fault to the driver's insurance company. To establish that you have the right to receive monetary damages, you need proof that the accident occurred because the driver was unsafe or negligent while behind the wheel. Some of the most common examples of negligence in these cases include:
· Erratic turns or lane changes
· Speeding
· Running red lights or traffic signs
· Driving while distracted or intoxicated
Statute of Limitations
Every state in the U.S. has imposed deadlines for filing a lawsuit after a truck accident. The statute of limitations in Florida is four years. The clock starts ticking on this four-year period on the day of the accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit before this time limit passes, you won't be entitled to receive any compensation for the losses you incurred.
Don't Wait to Seek Legal Counsel After a Truck Accident in Florida
Florida truck accidents can have serious and long-lasting consequences. If you find yourself in this situation, it's smart to reach out to a Port St. Lucie personal injury lawyer right away. They can review your case and help you get the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
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