Pembroke Pines is a bustling hub in Broward County, and with major arteries like I-75 and Pines Boulevard carrying heavy commercial traffic, 18-wheeler accidents are unfortunately common. When a massive commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the physical and emotional toll on the victims can be overwhelming. At the Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we understand how deeply a truck crash can disrupt your life. We represent injury victims in Pembroke Pines and across South Florida, handling the complex investigations and insurance negotiations required when taking on large trucking companies.
Unlike standard car crashes, collisions involving semi-trucks or delivery vehicles often involve multiple liable parties. This might include the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, or even the manufacturer of a defective truck part. Commercial vehicles are also governed by strict federal and Florida state regulations regarding weight limits, driver fatigue, and maintenance logs. Our team meticulously investigates these details, gathering evidence to build a strong foundation for your case.
Florida's legal landscape can be complex, especially with recent changes to comparative negligence laws. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your potential compensation may be reduced. Additionally, the state imposes a strict statute of limitations on personal injury claims, meaning you only have a limited window to file a lawsuit. It is crucial to act promptly so that vital evidence from the crash scene, whether it happened near the busy intersections of Flamingo Road or along the Turnpike, can be preserved.
Dealing with commercial insurance adjusters while trying to heal is a daunting task. Trucking companies have extensive resources dedicated to minimizing their financial exposure after a crash. We step in to level the playing field. From coordinating with accident reconstruction professionals to negotiating aggressively with insurers, we handle the heavy lifting. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Jeffrey S. Altman and our legal team are fully prepared to take your case to trial in Broward County.
First, prioritize your safety and health by seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine. Call law enforcement to report the crash, which is required by Florida law for accidents with injuries. If possible, document the scene with photos and get contact information from witnesses and the truck driver.
Florida has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which dictates the timeframe you have to file a claim. Because these laws can change and depend on the specifics of your case, such as whether it involves a wrongful death claim, it is important to consult with an attorney quickly to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.
Liability in truck accidents can extend beyond the driver. Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties might include the trucking company that hired the driver, the owner of the truck, the company responsible for loading the cargo, or the mechanics who maintained the vehicle.
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements before reaching a courtroom. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and pain, we are prepared to present your case before a judge and jury.
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you may still be able to recover damages if you are partially at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50 percent responsible, you may be barred from financial recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, contact the Altman Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with a South Florida attorney. Call (305) 373-3730.