If you were hurt in a truck accident in Fort Lauderdale, the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages. With heavy traffic on I-95, commercial routes near Port Everglades, and ongoing construction along major roadways, serious truck accidents can happen anywhere in the city.
Our team is ready to stand up to the insurance companies on your behalf and fight for the financial recovery you deserve. As Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers with over a decade of experience, we understand what you’re going through and are here to support you every step of the way. Call us today for a free consultation and find out how our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers can help.
Hiring A Truck Accident Lawyer In Fort Lauderdale
After a serious truck accident, you may be facing a long recovery, steep medical bills, and uncertainty about your financial future. The trucking company and its insurance provider will likely have powerful legal teams working to minimize their liability. You shouldn’t have to take them on alone.
An experienced Fort Lauderdale truck accident attorney can protect your rights, handle the legal complexities of your case, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. With legal representation, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance at a successful recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially.
Build And Strengthen Your Case
One of the first things our lawyers will do is launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. Proving liability in a truck accident requires detailed evidence and a clear understanding of the events that led to the crash.
To support your claim, your lawyer may gather and analyze:
- Black box data from the truck
- Maintenance logs and inspection records
- Police accident reports
- Driver qualification and training records
- Eyewitness statements
- Crash scene photos and surveillance footage
They’ll also determine if other parties—such as a truck maintenance company, cargo loader, or parts manufacturer—played a role in causing the crash, ensuring all liable parties are held accountable.
Calculate And Prove Your Damages
Accurately valuing your claim is essential to securing a fair settlement. Your attorney will evaluate your economic and non-economic damages and prepare compelling documentation to support each category.
This includes:
- Current and future medical costs
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability-related home or vehicle modifications
In cases involving catastrophic injuries, your lawyer may work with expert witnesses—such as life care planners and economists—to calculate long-term expenses and illustrate how the injuries have affected your quality of life.
Advocate And Negotiate On Your Behalf
Insurance companies are often more concerned with protecting their bottom line than fairly compensating accident victims. Your lawyer will act as your advocate throughout the negotiation process, ensuring your interests are front and center. They will:
- Handle all communications with the insurance company
- Respond to attempts to undervalue or deny your claim
- Present detailed evidence of your damages
- Push for a settlement that reflects the full scope of your losses
If the insurer refuses to make a reasonable offer, your attorney will be fully prepared to escalate the matter to litigation.
Protect Your Legal Rights
Florida truck accident cases involve strict legal timelines and procedural rules. Your lawyer will make sure your case stays on track and that you don’t miss any critical deadlines—such as the two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida.
In addition, if the other party tries to shift blame onto you, your attorney will:
- Challenge unfair claims of comparative negligence
- Present evidence that clarifies fault
- Defend your right to pursue compensation
Your lawyer is not only your advocate but also your legal shield—working to ensure you are treated fairly at every stage of the process.
The Value Of Legal Representation
Truck accident claims are far more complex than typical car accident cases. They often involve multiple parties, commercial insurance carriers, and federal regulations. A skilled attorney understands these intricacies and can handle them effectively on your behalf.
From gathering hard-to-access evidence to standing up to aggressive insurance companies, your lawyer is your ally in securing justice. Legal representation not only increases your chances of a successful outcome but also gives you the peace of mind to focus on what truly matters—your recovery.
Who Can Be Held Liable For A Fort Lauderdale Truck Accident?
In many truck accidents, liability falls on the driver who acted negligently—such as by violating traffic laws or failing to operate the vehicle safely. However, when the negligent driver is a commercial truck operator, liability may extend beyond the individual.
Under vicarious liability, a legal doctrine in Florida, a trucking company can be held responsible for the actions of its employee if the driver was performing job-related duties at the time of the crash. This means that rather than pursuing compensation solely from the driver, your claim may be directed at the trucking firm or its insurer. While this can increase the potential value of your claim, it also introduces legal complexities that require the expertise of a truck accident lawyer.
One of our Fort Lauderdale truck accident attorneys can assess your case and identify the most effective legal strategy to pursue full compensation from all responsible parties.
Additional Liable Parties In Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident liability isn’t always limited to the driver or their employer. Depending on the circumstances, other parties may be partially or fully at fault. These can include:
- Truck maintenance companies that failed to properly service the vehicle
- Manufacturers of defective truck components or tires
- Cargo loaders responsible for improperly balanced or secured freight
Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover all contributing factors and determine who should be held accountable. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability, and claims may be made against more than one insurance policy.
Additionally, if the injured person is found partially responsible for the accident, compensation may still be available—though it could be reduced under Florida’s comparative negligence laws. Evidence such as police reports and eyewitness testimony will help establish the extent of each party’s responsibility.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence In A Big Rig Accident Claim
Proving liability in a truck accident case requires more than just showing that a collision occurred—it involves demonstrating that the truck driver, or another party, acted negligently and directly caused your injuries. Because of the complex nature of commercial trucking operations, much of the critical evidence is held by the trucking company, making legal representation essential from the outset.
Key Evidence Used To Prove Negligence
To build a strong case, your attorney will seek access to various forms of evidence that may include:
- Truck driver logs and hours-of-service records
- Electronic data from the truck’s onboard computer system (black box)
- Post-accident drug and alcohol test results
- Driver personnel files and training certifications
- Maintenance and inspection records for the vehicle
These records can reveal whether the driver was fatigued, improperly trained, or if the truck had unresolved mechanical issues that contributed to the crash.
Preserving Critical Evidence
Prompt action is necessary to prevent valuable evidence from being lost or destroyed. Your attorney will issue a spoliation letter to the trucking company. This legal notice formally requires them to preserve all relevant documentation and alerts them of your intent to pursue a claim.
Beyond corporate records, your legal team will independently collect additional forms of evidence, such as:
- Police accident reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage
- Accident reconstruction analyses
- Medical records and diagnostic images (e.g., X-rays, CT scans)
- Testimony from medical and industry experts
Together, these materials are essential for demonstrating not only how the crash occurred but also the extent of your physical and financial damages.
To Show You Have A Valid Claim, You Must Prove Negligence
To determine whether you have a valid personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver, you must prove that they were negligent. This means proving that the defendant violated their duty of care to you. To do this, you will need to show that the defendant failed to act reasonably and responsibly in light of the foreseeable risks posed by their actions.
For example, if you were injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you might be able to sue them for negligence. The burden of proof in a civil case differs from in criminal court. In a criminal trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In a civil case, however, the plaintiff must merely prove that the defendant’s negligence caused the injuries suffered.
If you believe you have a valid claim for personal injury, contact our firm today for a free consultation. We offer a no-obligation, confidential review of your case.
Act Quickly Following Your Truck Accident In Fort Lauderdale
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Fort Lauderdale, it’s critical to understand that your right to seek compensation won’t last forever. Per Florida Statutes § 95.11, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. This legal deadline applies to most truck accident cases involving bodily injury or property damage.
Failing to file your lawsuit within this two-year window can result in your case being dismissed, no matter how strong your evidence is or how serious your injuries are. That’s why it’s so important to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your crash.
Are There Exceptions?
Certain situations may affect the statute of limitations, such as:
- Claims involving government-owned vehicles (which have shorter deadlines and notice requirements)
- Cases involving minors or incapacitated individuals
- Situations where the full extent of injuries wasn’t immediately apparent
By acting quickly, you give your legal team the best chance to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and file all necessary paperwork within the required timeframe. Don’t delay—speak with a Fort Lauderdale truck accident lawyer today to ensure your claim is filed on time and handled properly from the start.
What Types Of Damages Can I Recover After A South Florida Truck Accident?
Truck accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries that differ significantly from those in standard car crashes—primarily due to the size and force of commercial vehicles. Victims may face lifelong medical needs, substantial financial burdens, and a diminished quality of life.
Common truck accident injuries, such as spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries, can prevent individuals from returning to work or participating in previous activities. As a result, compensation in these cases tends to be higher to reflect the long-term impact. If you’re a truck accident victim, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency medical treatment and ongoing care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Home or vehicle modifications for disabilities
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
- Other costs directly related to the accident
In cases where long-term or future care is necessary, we collaborate with medical experts to clearly outline those needs and present a compelling case for appropriate compensation.
If the truck accident resulted in the loss of a loved one, different legal remedies may be available under Florida’s wrongful death statutes.
Wrongful Death Damages For Truck Accidents
For families who lose a loved one in a truck accident, Florida law allows for the recovery of wrongful death damages to address both economic loss and emotional suffering. These claims are intended to provide financial stability, hold negligent parties accountable, and support families as they manage their grief.
A Fort Lauderdale wrongful death lawyer from our firm can help pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills related to the decedent’s final care
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased’s financial support and future earnings
- Emotional loss, including loss of companionship and guidance
- Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
- Mental anguish, such as grief, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of spousal or parental care, affection, and support
In especially egregious cases, punitive damages may also be available. These are not tied to the family’s losses but are instead meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior. The award amount depends on factors such as the severity of misconduct and the defendant’s financial status.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Fort Lauderdale
Truck accidents often result from negligence—whether by the driver, the trucking company, or another involved party. Identifying the underlying cause is essential to determining liability and building a strong legal case. Some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents in Fort Lauderdale include:
- Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road, despite federal regulations, can lead to exhaustion. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of serious accidents—especially on high-speed routes like I-95 and I-595, where traffic congestion and long-haul trucking intersect.
- Improper cargo loading: If cargo is overloaded, unbalanced, or poorly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to tip over or lose control. This is especially dangerous on curved roads or ramps like those found along State Road 84 of I-595 or near Sunrise Boulevard.
- Mechanical failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and steering issues can stem from poor maintenance practices. Trucks traveling on US-1 and Broward Boulevard—which see a high volume of daily traffic—are especially dangerous when mechanical issues occur.
- Distracted driving: Activities like texting, using a GPS, or eating while driving divert attention from the road. In dense urban corridors like Las Olas Boulevard, even a momentary distraction can lead to devastating collisions.
- Substance abuse: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remains a serious issue in commercial trucking and frequently contributes to high-impact crashes.
Understanding these common causes—and where accidents are most likely to occur—helps ensure every negligent party is held accountable for their role in the crash.
Types Of Trucks Involved In Accidents On Fort Lauderdale Roads
Truck accidents in Fort Lauderdale involve a wide variety of commercial vehicles, each with their own set of hazards. Due to their size, weight, and function, these trucks can cause catastrophic damage in a collision, especially on South Florida’s busiest and most dangerous roadways.
- 18-Wheelers / Tractor-Trailers: These large commercial rigs are frequently seen on I-95 and the Florida Turnpike. Their long stopping distances and wide turning radii make them particularly hazardous in congested traffic.
- Dump Trucks and Construction Vehicles: Often traveling near work zones, these vehicles carry heavy loads and pose rollover and debris risks.
- Delivery Trucks (FedEx, UPS, Amazon vans): As e-commerce increases, so does the presence of delivery vehicles in residential neighborhoods. These drivers may be under time pressure and make frequent stops.
- Tanker Trucks: Carrying flammable or hazardous materials, these vehicles are especially dangerous in the event of a collision or rollover.
- Box Trucks and Moving Vans: Common on urban roads, box trucks often have large blind spots and are frequently operated by less-experienced drivers.
Understanding the types of trucks involved and where these accidents are most likely to happen can help victims—and their attorneys—build stronger, more informed legal claims.
Differences Between Truck And Car Accident Claims
While truck and car accidents may seem similar on the surface, truck accident claims are typically more complex and challenging. One key difference is the number of potentially liable parties. In a truck accident, responsibility could lie not only with the driver but also with the trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance provider, or even a parts manufacturer.
Additionally, trucking companies must comply with strict federal and state regulations. Violations of these rules—such as hours-of-service limits or vehicle maintenance requirements—can serve as evidence of negligence. This makes the investigation process far more detailed than in standard car accident claims.
Truck accidents also tend to cause more severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. As a result, claims often involve higher damages, longer recovery periods, and more aggressive defense strategies from insurers.
These factors make it essential to work with an attorney who understands the nuances of truck accident litigation and how to handle the unique legal and logistical challenges involved.
Steps to Take After A Truck Accident in Fort Lauderdale
An accident can be overwhelming for victims. Follow these key steps following your truck crash to help protect your rights:
- Ensure your safety and check for injuries, moving to a safe location if possible to avoid further harm.
- Call 911 and request medical assistance and law enforcement to ensure injuries are treated and an official accident report is created.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine, since some injuries may have delayed symptoms.
- Document the scene of the accident by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and visible injuries.
- Collect contact information from witnesses who can help support your version of events.
- Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident with other parties, as your statements could be used against you later.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer promptly to protect your rights, preserve critical evidence, and begin building your case.
Taking these steps not only protects your health and safety but also lays the foundation for a strong personal injury claim.
About Our Fort Lauderdale Truck Accident Lawyers
Founded in 2005, the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine has proudly served accident victims in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida for nearly two decades. As a firm deeply rooted in this community, we understand the unique hazards drivers face on I-95, US-1, and other high-traffic routes in the area. This local knowledge gives us valuable insight when investigating your case and negotiating with insurers familiar with the region.
People First. Always.
Our firm is built on a simple philosophy: You worry about getting better. We take care of everything else. We know how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can be, and we’re here to lighten that burden. From arranging vehicle repairs and helping you access top medical care to recovering lost wages and pursuing full compensation—we handle it all with compassion, urgency, and respect.
Responsive Legal Help That Serves You
When we say we’re accessible, we mean it. You’ll get:
- Your attorney’s personal cell phone number
- Prompt answers to your questions and concerns
- Regular updates on your case so you’re never left wondering
We even assist with scheduling your appointments and dealing with the insurance company—going the extra mile so you don’t have to.
We Help You Take Back Control of Your Life
Every client is more than just a case number. Whether we’re meeting with you in person, coordinating transportation, or communicating directly with insurers on your behalf, our goal remains the same: to help you move forward, confidently and securely.
Let us be your advocates. With a proven track record, a deep understanding of Florida law, and a people-first approach, the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine is here to help you take back control of your life.
Contact The Law Offices Of Anidjar & Levine Today
If you or a family member suffered injuries in a truck or big rig accident, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine.
We offer free consultations to all truck accident victims, and our Fort Lauderdale truck accident attorneys can quickly evaluate your case and determine the best course of action.