A collision with a commercial truck or 18-wheeler can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. In Hialeah, heavy commercial traffic along the Palmetto Expressway, Okeechobee Road, and I-75 means that passenger vehicles are frequently sharing the road with massive freight carriers. When accidents happen, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. At The Altman Law Firm, we understand how deeply a truck crash can impact a family. Led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, our team is dedicated to helping injured individuals in Miami-Dade County navigate the complex aftermath of a commercial vehicle collision. We take the time to investigate the crash, negotiate with aggressive insurance companies, and prepare your case for trial if the situation demands it.
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Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Why Truck Accidents Are More Complex Than Car Crashes
Commercial truck accidents are not just oversized car crashes. They involve a complex web of state and federal regulations, including hours-of-service rules and strict maintenance logs overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. When an 18-wheeler crashes on a busy Hialeah road like West 49th Street or the Gratigny Parkway, there may be multiple parties responsible. Liability could fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, or even the manufacturer of a defective truck part. The Altman Law Firm knows how to preserve crucial evidence, such as the truck black box data and driver logs, before they are lost or destroyed by the trucking company.
Understanding Florida Comparative Negligence in Truck Crashes
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are injured in a truck accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Furthermore, if you are found to be more than fifty percent responsible for the collision, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely. Trucking companies and their insurers often use this law to shift blame onto the driver of the passenger vehicle. Having legal representation can help protect your rights. At The Altman Law Firm, we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your Hialeah truck accident to build a strong case that accurately reflects how the collision occurred.
The Statute of Limitations for Florida Personal Injury Claims
Time is a critical factor after a commercial vehicle accident. In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the crash. If a loved one tragically lost their life in a fatal 18-wheeler collision, the Florida wrongful death statute also strictly limits the time surviving family members have to file a claim. Waiting too long can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. We encourage Hialeah residents to reach out promptly so that The Altman Law Firm can begin gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and dealing with the insurance adjusters on your behalf.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Hialeah?
First, prioritize your health and safety by calling 911 and seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask severe injuries. If you are able, document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, skid marks, and road conditions. Exchange information with the truck driver and get contact details from any witnesses. Finally, consider consulting with a legal professional before speaking to the trucking company insurance adjuster.
Who can be held liable in a commercial truck accident?
Liability in a truck accident can extend beyond the driver. Depending on the facts of the crash, responsible parties might include the trucking company that hired the driver, the owner of the truck, the facility that loaded the cargo, or the mechanics responsible for vehicle maintenance. The Altman Law Firm investigates these cases to identify all potentially liable parties.
Will my truck accident case have to go to court in Miami-Dade County?
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements outside of court. However, trucking companies are known for aggressively defending against claims. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit and proceeding to trial may be necessary. The Altman Law Firm prepares every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring we are ready to advocate for you in the courtroom if needed.
How does the trucking company insurance differ from regular auto insurance?
Commercial trucks are required by federal law to carry insurance policies with significantly higher limits than standard passenger vehicles, often extending into the millions of dollars. Because the stakes are so high, commercial insurers employ rapid-response teams to investigate crashes immediately and look for ways to minimize their financial exposure. This is why having your own legal advocate is so important.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck collision, contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with a compassionate professional. 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.