A collision with a commercial truck or 18-wheeler is rarely a minor event. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries, leaving victims and their families overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain. If you or a loved one were injured in a commercial vehicle crash in Coral Gables, you do not have to navigate the complex aftermath alone. At The Altman Law Firm, we understand the heavy toll these accidents take. We are committed to helping you understand your legal options and seeking the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
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Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
The Dangers of Commercial Trucks in Coral Gables
Coral Gables is known for its beautiful canopy streets and historic architecture, but it is also intersected by major thoroughfares like US-1 (South Dixie Highway) and Le Jeune Road. With heavy commercial traffic delivering goods to local businesses and passing through Miami-Dade County, the risk of an 18-wheeler accident is a daily reality. When a fully loaded semi-truck collides with a passenger vehicle at an intersection along Ponce de Leon Boulevard or a busy stretch of Bird Road, the passenger vehicle is almost always at a severe disadvantage. The Altman Law Firm thoroughly investigates the unique factors of local crashes, from congested traffic patterns to potential commercial driver fatigue.
Understanding Liability in Florida Truck Accidents
Truck accident claims are significantly more complex than standard car crashes. Liability may not rest solely on the truck driver; it can also extend to the trucking company, the cargo loader, or the vehicle manufacturer. Florida operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning that fault can be shared among multiple parties. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible to recover damages, though your recovery would be reduced by your percentage of fault. Navigating these multi-party claims requires a deep understanding of state and federal trucking regulations. At The Altman Law Firm, we meticulously review logbooks, maintenance records, and electronic logging device data to identify all potentially liable parties.
Time Limits for Filing Your Claim
It is important to act promptly following a serious collision. Florida law imposes a strict statute of limitations on personal injury and wrongful death claims. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this legally defined time frame, you may permanently lose your right to seek compensation. Early investigation is also critical because evidence from the crash scene can disappear quickly, and trucking companies often deploy their own investigators immediately after an accident. By involving The Altman Law Firm early in the process, we can help preserve vital evidence and protect your legal rights while you focus on your physical and emotional recovery.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Coral Gables?
Your health and safety are the top priorities. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine, as some injuries are not immediately apparent. Call law enforcement to the scene so an official crash report is filed. If you are physically able, take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Finally, consider consulting with a legal professional before speaking to the trucking company's insurance adjusters.
How is a truck accident different from a regular car accident?
Truck accidents often involve much more severe injuries due to the massive size disparity between an 18-wheeler and a standard car. Additionally, the trucking industry is heavily regulated by both state and federal laws. There are often multiple parties involved in a truck accident claim, including the driver, the trucking company, and the insurance providers for each entity, making the investigation and negotiation processes much more complex.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the crash?
Yes, under Florida's modified comparative negligence rules, you can generally still pursue compensation as long as you are not found to be more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. However, your total recoverable damages will be reduced by your assigned percentage of fault. The Altman Law Firm can help evaluate the circumstances of your crash to ensure fault is assessed fairly.
Will my truck accident case have to go to trial?
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements outside of court. However, if the trucking company or their insurance provider refuses to offer a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, taking the case to trial may be necessary. The Altman Law Firm prepares every case thoroughly, ensuring we are ready to advocate for you at trial when the case demands it.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Florida?
Florida law dictates a specific statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which recently changed for incidents occurring after a certain date. Generally, you have a limited number of years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Wrongful death claims have their own distinct deadlines. Because these laws are strict, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck collision, contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The settlements and verdicts described are specific to the facts of each case and the law in effect at the time. Your case may involve different facts, legal issues, or insurance coverage, and results in other cases do not predict the outcome of yours. Amounts shown are gross recoveries before attorney's fees, costs, and liens. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements.