When a massive commercial vehicle collides with a passenger car along University Drive or I-595, the consequences for local families can be devastating. At The Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we help Plantation residents stand up to major trucking conglomerates and their insurers. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a commercial vehicle crash in Broward County, we are here to listen to your story and help you pursue the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
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Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Uncovering Federal and State Safety Violations
Commercial trucks and 18-wheelers are bound by strict regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern everything from maximum daily driving hours to mandatory brake inspections and cargo weight limits. When delivery vans cut across residential neighborhoods or semi-trucks speed down local thoroughfares to meet tight corporate deadlines, corners are often cut. At The Altman Law Firm, we dig deep into electronic logging devices, driver qualification files, and maintenance logs to expose any safety violations that contributed to your collision on Plantation roads.
Identifying All Liable Parties in a Commercial Crash
Unlike standard car accidents, commercial vehicle wrecks often involve multiple layers of corporate responsibility. Liability may extend far beyond the person behind the wheel. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, responsibility might also lie with the trucking company that pushed the driver to exhaustion, a third-party maintenance shop that failed to fix faulty brakes, or a negligent cargo loader. Our team thoroughly investigates every aspect of the incident to ensure every accountable party is held responsible under Florida law.
Navigating Florida Legal Deadlines and Rules
Florida's legal landscape requires swift and careful navigation after a serious collision. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto injured motorists to minimize payouts. Additionally, Florida law sets a strict two-year statute of limitations for general negligence claims resulting from accidents occurring after March 24, 2023. Because large trucking companies often deploy rapid-response investigators to the scene within hours, having knowledgeable legal counsel on your side early is vital for preserving crucial evidence like black box data and skid marks.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Plantation?
Your health and safety come first. Call 911 to report the crash and seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. If you are physically able and it is safe to do so, take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and your injuries. Avoid speaking with representatives from the trucking company's insurance carrier before consulting with a qualified attorney.
Who can be held liable for a commercial truck collision?
Liability can extend to multiple parties depending on the root cause of the crash. Potential defendants include the truck driver, the trucking company or motor carrier, the company that loaded the cargo, parts manufacturers, and maintenance providers.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida?
For negligence claims stemming from accidents that occurred on or after March 24, 2023, Florida law generally requires you to file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the crash. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from seeking compensation, making early action essential.
Why are truck accident cases more complex than standard car crashes?
Commercial truck cases involve complex federal safety regulations, large corporate insurance policies, and multiple potentially liable entities. Furthermore, trucking companies often have aggressive legal teams working immediately after a crash to protect their own interests, requiring a thorough counter-investigation.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today to speak with Jeffrey S. Altman about your Plantation truck accident case. Call (305) 373-3730.
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