Despite continuing improvements in vehicle safety standards, the sheer size and weight of trucks still make these large-scale transporters a hazard to drivers. In the event of a truck accident, a driver could sustain significant damage to their vehicle, themselves and their passengers.
If you or a loved one were injured in a crash involving a big rig, you should reach out to a New Port Richey truck accident lawyer. Truck companies will often expend a large number of recourses on accident investigators and lawyers in order to escape liability for these accidents. Therefore, a seasoned personal injury attorney with experience in handling these complex claims could advocate on your behalf and help you recover compensation for damages.
Common Causes of Tractor-Trailer Collisions
There are many factors that could cause a truck accident including:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Vehicle malfunction
- Poor weather or road conditions
- Unsecured cargo
- Failure to follow traffic rules
Often, the truck company will attempt to avoid liability for the collision. It is advisable to speak with a truck accident attorney from New Port Richey as soon as possible after the crash. An experienced attorney could speak to witnesses, attain the police report and ambulance records, and interview the treating physician to help build a case.
The Filing Deadline in New Port Richey
In order to seek compensation for damages, the injured victim must file their personal injury claim within the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations refers to the deadline to file a lawsuit. Under Florida Statutes §95.11(3)(a), a plaintiff has four years from the date of the accident to file a claim for personal injuries sustained in the crash.
If the claim is not filed within the statute of limitations, injured claimants may be ineligible to recover compensation for damages.
Determining Fault for a Big Rig Crash
In many personal injury cases, the defendant may allege that the plaintiff contributed to the accident or exacerbated their injuries.
Florida follows a “pure comparative fault” rule when two parties are found to be partially responsible for the accident. When the plaintiff is found to be partially liable for an accident, their compensation award will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Dealing with comparative negligence claims could be difficult to deal with alone. A determined truck accident lawyer in New Port Richey could use evidence to prove that the defendant’s actions were the direct cause of the collision.
Schedule a Consultation with a New Port Richey Truck Accident Attorney Today
Those who have been involved in a tractor-trailer collision should reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as possible. A New Port Richey truck accident lawyer could start building a case immediately following a collision. They could conduct an independent investigation, help with evidence procurement, and speak to witnesses to help prove your case.
The attorney could also calculate your losses and help you recover compensation for your damages. You may be eligible to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life. Schedule a consultation today to get started on your case.
