Drivers of West Palm Beach highways and roads are no strangers to large commercial vehicles and high traffic. Busy roadways, erratic drivers, and frequent construction can increase the likelihood of a crash with a semi-truck. Although any type of vehicle accident can result in costly bills and painful injuries, the risks are especially high in truck accidents.
If you were hurt in a Palm Beach County truck accident, you could file a claim for compensation against the driver and trucking company. The trucker’s negligent behavior should not leave you in dire financial straits, and we aim to hold them responsible for your injuries, expenses, and pain and suffering. Our legal team is committed to helping injured accident victims and their families, so call the West Palm Beach personal injury lawyers at Anidjar & Levine for a free consultation.
What Damages Can I Seek After A West Palm Beach Truck Accident?
Calculating compensation after a collision can be challenging for any accident victim, as there are many factors to consider. When dealing with it on your own, you may miss out on crucial compensation or not know if an offer is fair. When dealing with a West Palm Beach personal injury lawsuit or claim, let us review your case. We can look at the losses you’ve suffered and give you an estimate of your claim.
Every personal injury claim is unique, so individual results will vary. However, recoverable damages in a truck accident case often include the following:
- Medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and other medical treatments
- Loss of income from missing work
- Loss of earning capacity if you are unable to return to your job
- Pain and suffering damages for physical and emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment or diminished quality of life
- Loss of consortium
- Property damage costs for vehicle repairs or replacement
- Funeral expenses and other wrongful death damages for fatal accidents
Every case is unique, so giving an average of settlement values is hard. But costs can add up quickly in an accident as potentially catastrophic as a truck collision, and we will fight for everything you deserve and need to make up for the harm done to you.
How Our Law Firm Supports Truck Accident Victims in West Palm Beach
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in West Palm Beach, you need more than just legal representation—you need a team that’s fully committed to helping you recover and move forward. Our law firm provides responsive, client-centered service designed to make this overwhelming time a little easier.
From the moment you become our client, we take care of the details. You’ll receive frequent case updates and have direct access to your attorney, including their phone number. We’re also flexible in meeting your needs—whether that means coming to your home or hospital, or helping you schedule medical appointments and car repairs. Our priority is to ensure you feel supported and informed throughout the process, so you can focus on healing.
A Legal Team That Goes the Extra Mile
What sets our firm apart is our dedication—not just to the case, but to the person behind it. Our attorneys are experienced in handling truck accident claims and understand the stakes. We’re known for fighting hard for our clients, using our deep knowledge of Florida personal injury law to pursue the best possible outcomes.
Clients often tell us they chose our firm because we combine legal skill with genuine care. We understand how traumatic these situations can be, and we’re committed to making the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team is compassionate, detail-oriented, and relentless in seeking justice.
Experience That Makes a Difference
Truck accident cases are different from typical car accidents. They involve a unique set of laws and regulations, and trucking companies often have legal teams ready to minimize their liability. That’s why it’s important to work with a law firm that specializes in this area.
We know how to handle the complex logistics of these claims. One of the first steps we take is issuing a spoliation letter—a formal request that trucking companies preserve critical evidence like driving logs, vehicle maintenance records, and black box data. This evidence is often essential to proving fault and maximizing your compensation.
We also work with a team of professionals, including accident reconstruction experts and industry investigators, who help us analyze the crash and build a compelling case. Their insights can be the difference between a lowball settlement and a result that truly covers your losses.
Removing Financial Barriers to Justice
Cost should never prevent someone from getting the legal help they need. That’s why we offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis. You won’t pay anything upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. This model ensures our interests are aligned with yours: we’re here to secure the compensation you deserve without adding to your financial stress.
Our Commitment to You
From start to finish, our goal is simple: to help you recover—physically, emotionally, and financially. We’re not just here to file paperwork or negotiate with insurance companies. We’re here to be your advocate, your guide, and your support system throughout the legal process.
When you choose us, you’re choosing a team with experience, integrity, and a passion for justice. We invite you to reach out today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about how we can help you move forward.
How Does Liability Work in a Truck Accident Case?
When determining liability, one task our lawyers will perform is gathering evidence. Without clear evidence, proving that another party was responsible for your accident will be difficult. Once we’ve built a case file, our team can work to prove the four elements of liability. These include:
- Duty of care: Truck drivers are responsible for keeping others on the road safe from harm. Anyone driving a motor vehicle has a legal obligation to uphold a duty of care.
- Breach of duty: A breach of duty occurs when the at-fault party fails to uphold their duty of care. In a semi-truck accident case, this could be a lack of safety procedures on the part of the trucking company or unsafe driving on the truck driver’s part.
- Causation: You must prove that another party behaved negligently before your accident and demonstrate that their negligence caused the collision. For example, the commercial driver may have failed to check their blind spot when changing lanes.
- Damages: Finally, you must show that you suffered injuries in the crash. We can review your medical records and expenses to show that you experienced damages from your truck accident.
Assigning liability is an important step in the legal process after a truck accident. If you can’t prove that someone else caused your accident, you can’t recover damages. The stronger the case you make, the harder it is for the other party’s insurance provider to dispute your right to fair compensation.
Our team can handle every aspect of your case from start to finish; however, the more time we have, the better. Gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses takes time. The sooner you reach out to our firm, the sooner a truck accident attorney in West Palm Beach can get to work on your case.
Who Can Be Held Liable After A Truck Accident In West Palm Beach?
We could hold the trucking company responsible based on the facts of your case. However, they aren’t the only potentially liable party in a truck accident case. Other responsible parties may include:
- Another driver: A third driver could have contributed to the accident and your injuries. All drivers are legally obligated to keep others safe; failure could open them up to liability.
- A truck manufacturer: Truck manufacturers have a similar duty of care. If their vehicles are unsafe, they can be liable for an accident. For example, if a faulty truck part caused your accident, we could seek compensation from the truck or parts manufacturer.
These and other parties may be responsible for paying for your losses– more than one person or company could have caused your accident. Our legal team will work to determine which parties owe you compensation.
Safety Standards for Commercial Trucks and Their Role in Your Case
Commercial truck drivers and the companies that employ them are held to higher safety standards than everyday motorists. These standards, enforced by both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Florida state law, exist to reduce the risk of devastating accidents involving large, heavy vehicles.
- Federal trucking regulations govern nearly every aspect of commercial vehicle operations. They limit how many hours a driver can spend behind the wheel to prevent fatigue, mandate regular rest periods, and require comprehensive pre-trip inspections.
- Trucking companies must also ensure proper cargo loading, maintain their fleets in roadworthy condition, and document compliance with all safety protocols.
- Employers also have a duty to thoroughly vet drivers before hiring, provide ongoing safety training, monitor driving behavior, and take corrective action when drivers violate company or legal standards. Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, skipping mandated rest periods, or neglecting vehicle maintenance can all constitute serious breaches of these rules.
When a truck accident occurs, uncovering violations of these safety standards can be critical in establishing liability. Our legal team investigates whether the driver or company failed to comply with FMCSA or state regulations, such as driving too long without rest or skipping required inspections. Evidence of noncompliance can significantly strengthen your injury claim and help secure the compensation you deserve.
In short, trucking safety laws aren’t just guidelines—they are essential protections. When ignored, they can cause life-altering consequences, and we are prepared to hold negligent companies accountable.
Examples Of Truck Driver Negligence
Trucking companies can be held liable for the negligent behavior of their employees, even though the company isn’t present at the collision. Common truck driver negligent behaviors include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Ignoring roadway signage
- Aggressive driving
- Working too long without a break (hours of service violations)
- Drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs
Common Challenges In West Palm Beach Truck Accident Claims
Truck accident cases are often more complex than standard car accident claims due to the number of parties involved, the size and severity of the damages, and the trucking industry’s deep legal resources. Understanding the common obstacles victims face can help you prepare and highlight the importance of working with a law firm that knows how to overcome them.
Disputes Over Liability
One of the most frequent challenges is proving exactly who was at fault. Trucking companies and their insurers may try to shift blame onto other drivers, including you, to reduce their financial responsibility. In some cases, liability is shared between multiple parties, such as the driver, the trucking company, a parts manufacturer, or even a third-party maintenance provider.
Our firm investigates every potential angle to identify all liable parties and build a solid case that clearly shows who caused the crash.
Lost Or Withheld Evidence
Time is critical in truck accident cases. Black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records can be altered or lost if not preserved quickly. Trucking companies may delay or deny access to key documents in hopes that the evidence will become unavailable.
We act fast to send preservation letters and secure vital evidence before it’s compromised.
High-Stakes Defense Teams
Trucking companies are often backed by powerful legal teams and aggressive insurers who specialize in minimizing payouts. They may use tactics like denying fault, devaluing injuries, or offering quick, lowball settlements.
Our legal team knows how to counter these strategies and is prepared to take the case to court if necessary to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Complex Federal And State Regulations
Navigating the web of FMCSA regulations and Florida traffic laws requires specific legal knowledge. Mistakes in applying these rules or failing to connect a violation to your injury can hurt your case.
With our experience in trucking cases, we know how to use these regulations to establish liability and strengthen your claim.
How Does My Auto Insurance Claim Work If I Suffered Serious Injuries In A Truck Accident?
Florida sets a threshold for filing a fault-based claim. You may suffer catastrophic injuries that leave you with permanent impairments or scarring. Spinal cord injuries are just one example of severe injuries for which we could pursue damages. This injury can require months, if not years, of treatment and can have long-lasting effects. In this instance, you will likely qualify to file a third-party liability claim to collect compensation for your losses from the following parties:
The Truck Driver
In most car accident cases, we would file this claim against the at-fault motorist’s insurance policy. However, when a trucker causes a crash, a legal doctrine known as vicarious liability often comes into play.
This doctrine states that an employer is responsible for employees’ actions while completing their duties. So, when a trucker acts negligently behind the wheel of a tractor-trailer, their employer (usually a trucking company) is liable for the damages they cause.
The Trucking Company
While you probably do not want to think of going toe-to-toe with a large corporation for your insurance payout, this is good news for most accident victims.
These companies typically carry much larger insurance policies than an individual driver would, allowing you to recover more compensation to cover ongoing care costs and future medical needs.
The truck company will probably have a team of attorneys trying to reduce the value of your claim at every turn. This is why having an experienced commercial truck accident lawyer is vital. Our team has a track record of success in these cases and is ready to work for you.
What Happens If The Truck Driver Or Trucking Company Disputes The Negligence Claim?
Suppose the truck driver or trucking company disputes the claim of negligence in a West Palm Beach truck accident. In this case, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced truck accident lawyer.
We will review the evidence and determine whether there is sufficient proof to prove negligence on behalf of the driver or trucking company. Depending on the facts of the case, we could negotiate with the insurance companies for a settlement or file a lawsuit against them.
Understanding Comparative Negligence In Florida Truck Accident Cases
Determining fault in a truck accident isn’t always black and white. In some cases, more than one party may share responsibility for the crash, including the injured victim. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which can significantly impact how much compensation you’re eligible to receive.
Under Florida Statutes § 768.81, you can still pursue compensation for your injuries as long as you are found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of the blame. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages at all.
When comparative negligence is at play, insurance companies often try to shift more blame onto the victim to reduce their payout or avoid it entirely. This is where having a truck accident attorney becomes invaluable. We can help:
- Protect You From Unfair Blame: We gather evidence to counter arguments that you caused or contributed to the crash.
- Build a Strong Liability Case: Our team works with experts, reviews traffic camera footage, accident reports, and black box data to clearly show who was at fault.
- Maximize Your Compensation: By pushing back against blame-shifting tactics, we help ensure you recover the fullest amount you’re entitled to.
If the trucking company or its insurer claims you were partially responsible, don’t accept it without legal guidance. We’re here to defend your rights and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Common Injuries From Truck Accidents In West Palm Beach
Collisions involving large commercial trucks are often far more severe than typical car accidents. The sheer size and weight of semi-trucks mean that even low-speed crashes can cause devastating injuries—especially for occupants of smaller vehicles. Unfortunately, many truck accident victims suffer long-term or permanent damage that alters the course of their lives.
Injuries from truck crashes tend to be more complex, more painful, and more costly to treat. Some of the most common include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Concussions, brain bleeds, and long-term cognitive impairment can have lifelong effects on victims.
- Spinal cord injuries: This includes herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or paralysis resulting in permanent disability.
- Broken bones and orthopedic injuries: Fractures of the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis can cause painful and even disabling injuries.
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys often requires surgery. Some organ damage can cause loss of the organ itself.
- Soft tissue injuries: Torn ligaments and muscles can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Burns and lacerations: These injuries can occur in high-impact or hazardous-material-related crashes.
The aftermath of a truck accident often extends far beyond the initial hospitalization. Many victims face months—or even years—of ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or multiple surgeries. Serious injuries can prevent someone from returning to their previous job or working at all, leading to a significant loss of income and long-term financial strain. In some cases, individuals are left with permanent disabilities that affect their independence and ability to care for themselves or their families.
Emotional trauma is also common, with victims experiencing anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. These long-term consequences highlight the importance of pursuing full and fair compensation that accounts for every facet of a victim’s recovery—not just immediate costs, but the impact on their future quality of life.
What If I Only Suffered Minor Injuries In My West Palm Beach Truck Accident?
Florida is a no-fault auto insurance state, meaning motorists must carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance or pay out of their pocket to cover minor injuries from a crash. This is true no matter who causes the accident.
These laws aim to reduce the number of claims that reach the court system and help accident victims quickly receive the money they need. If you only suffered minor injuries in a crash with a trucker, we can contact your insurance provider to file a claim. However, it’s essential to seek medical attention to determine if these are truly minor injuries– don’t assume you are fine, as some injuries may not manifest right away.
The adjuster may ask to see your vehicle or ask for photos. We will also need to provide them with your medical bills and other proof of your medical expenses. If they refuse to pay out what you deserve or have other issues getting your compensation, we can help sort things out and get you the money you need.
How Long Do I Have to Take Legal Action After a Florida Accident?
Florida has specific deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit. You have two years to file per Florida Statutes § 95.11. If you lost a loved one, you still only have two years to file a wrongful death claim to receive compensation.
While these deadlines may sound like a long time to act, several factors can delay your case. For instance, insurance negotiations can take more time than expected. Investigating your losses can also take a while in some cases.
Our West Palm Beach truck accident team can ensure your case meets all deadlines and stays on track.
Reach Out to a Truck Accident Lawyer in West Palm Beach Now
At Anidjar & Levine, we offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options after a Palm Beach County truck accident. We can help you determine whether you meet Florida’s threshold to file a claim. We can then identify the liable parties and build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you. We are here to help you handle the claims and litigation process. Contact us today for a free consultation with a West Palm Beach truck accident attorney.
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