Moving van accidents can be traumatic due to heavy cargo and inexperienced drivers who operate the vehicle. Victims of these types of accidents often pay through pain and suffering, high medical bills, and lost wages. Plus, they may not receive an adequate settlement that covers their losses.
At the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, we understand the frustration that you may feel after a moving van accident. Therefore, we work hard to ensure that your rights are protected under Florida law and that we pursue a fair settlement on your behalf. Contact our team today if you need legal representation for your personal injury claim.
Call 1-800-747-3733 for a free consultation.
Why Are Moving Vans So Dangerous?
There are several reasons why moving vans are especially dangerous on the highway, including:
Inexperienced Drivers
Rental van companies allow almost anyone with a regular Florida driver’s license to operate their vehicles. However, most of the people that rent these vehicles have zero experience operating a moving van. As a result, they do not know how to navigate the vehicle in certain situations. This can lead to accidents with devastating consequences.
Unbalanced Loads
The same people who have no experience driving a rental van also have little experience loading the van. When moving household items, people are likely to put too much weight on one side, at the top, or toward the rear of the vehicle. A sudden brake or veer can cause the van to overturn.
Poor Maintenance
Florida state statutes stipulate that companies must maintain their fleets so that moving vans and trucks are dependable and safe. However, these vehicles are constantly on the highway due to high rental rates with little maintenance in between each use. A flat tire, worn brake, or dim headlights can quickly cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Blind Spots
Although moving vans have large mirrors on either side, some drivers do not understand how to use the mirrors. The bulkiness of the van makes it difficult to see cars in the rear section or directly behind the vehicle. A driver who cannot see may veer into a lane, suddenly brake, or commit a number of errors that can lead to a collision with an object or another vehicle.
What Should You Do if You Are in a Moving Van Accident?
The first few steps you take after a moving van accident are critical to your personal injury case. If possible, try to take these actions to protect yourself:
- Seek professional medical treatment soon after the accident – do not delay.
- Gather photos or videos of the accident and your injuries.
- Get the contact information of eyewitnesses who may testify on your behalf.
- Make sure you get the name of the moving company and location.
- Keep careful records and safely secure all documents relating to the accident.
You may be tempted to contact the insurance company so that you can expedite your settlement. However, before you speak with an insurance adjuster, you may want to consult an attorney. A personal injury lawyer can provide legal counsel and help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your case. Remember, you are not obligated to speak with the insurance company. You can explore your legal options first and let your attorney speak on your behalf.
If you have questions about your case, a Boca Raton moving van lawyer may be able to help. Call1-800-747-3733 for a free case assessment today.
How to Prove Your Case After a Moving Van Accident
Moving van accidents can cause widespread damage and may involve multiple vehicles. It can be difficult to determine how the accident occurred or who is at fault. However, there are several ways our attorneys can establish fault and liability. We can obtain evidence such as:
Accident Reports
We can view the official police report or look at the accident report filled out by the driver or the moving van company. Police reports often provide details of the event and the officer’s opinion of what happened and who is at fault.
Eyewitness Statements
We can follow up and interview your list of eyewitnesses to the accident. They may be willing to give details of the accident and who they believe was at fault for your injuries.
Expert Witnesses
We can contact expert witnesses such as vehicle experts, medical professionals, or accident reconstruction experts who can corroborate your side of the story and give insight to the circumstances of the accident.
Medical Reports
Medical reports are valuable in helping us establish the connection between the accident and your injuries, as well as subsequent damages. It is a key piece of evidence in calculating your damages.
Photos or Video Footage
Surveillance cameras on the highway may have captured the accident as it occurred. If you took any photos or videos of the accident, then we may be able to view them to get a clearer understanding of what happened.
Damages in a Moving Van Accident
One of the reasons why a Boca Raton moving van lawyer is valuable to your case is because they can help you assess your actual losses instead of settling for the insurance company’s initial offer. A lawyer will take the time to explore how the accident impacted all areas of your life.
Damages you may be able to claim in a moving van accident case include:
- Hospital and medical services
- Lost pay, bonuses, or tips
- Ongoing physical pain
- Emotional or mental trauma
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of companionship or parental support
- Wrongful death expenses and losses
Our team can work to pursue a fair settlement from the insurance company, or we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
Get Started with Your Personal Injury Case Today
Florida Statute § 95.11(3)(a) gives you four years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. So, do not delay. Contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine and allow a Boca Raton moving van lawyer to get started with your case right away. Call 1-800-747-3733 for a free case review. You worry about healing. We take care of everything else.
We Can Help.
