Our Florida trucking and transportation attorneys represent trucking and transportation companies, load carriers, household good movers, overnight delivery companies, passenger carriers and drivers in cases involving catastrophic personal injury and death, property damages, cargo claims, contractual and insurance disputes and regulatory compliance.
The trucking and transportation attorneys at Dickinson & Gibbons have extensive experience defending insured and self insured trucking companies. Our firm has the resources, contacts and knowledge to obtain retain top national trucking experts and consultants to prosecute and defend the most serious and catastrophic personal injury cases, which often involve trucking accidents. Some of the clients we have represented in trucking accident claims include: AAA Cooper Transportation, Inc., Walmart Transportation, Inc., Atlas Van Lines, Inc., United Van Lines Inc., J.W. Hunt, Inc., Mayflower, Inc., First Fleet Transportation, Inc., FMX, Inc. and Federal Express.
Our Florida trucking and transportation attorneys have developed a track record of successfully and economically resolving trucking and transportation accident cases. These cases often involve complex, novel issues of federal law, as well as catastrophic claims of personal injuries and insurance costs. The trucking and transportation attorneys are ready to respond to accidents with the necessary team of highly qualified experts on short notice in order to document and preserve critical evidence, interview witnesses and communicate with law enforcement and direct the investigation on behalf of our clients.
In addition to the defense of trucking accidents, Dickinson & Gibbons trucking attorneys have successfully handled multiple insurance coverage claims, involving such complex federal regulations such as MCS-90 and Owners Liability Acts claims. We also have extensive experience litigating cargo liability claims, and our attorneys have resolved freight disputes involving damaged or delayed cargo. With cargo claims, it is critical to retain counsel with the specific knowledge of the potential insurance issues, case law and federal legislation such as the Carmack Amendment to the Interstate Commerce Clause.
The trucking litigation attorneys at Dickinson & Gibbons also represent persons who have suffered significant injuries in trucking accidents due to the clear negligence and carelessness of a driver, as well as claimants with cargo claims. We will review the claim through a full consultation and determine the best course of action. Following is some useful information to claimants considering trucking-related claims.
Florida Trucking & Transporation Accident Statistics
Accidents involving large trucks, such as tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers and semi-trucks, lead to serious injury or fatality at a much higher rate than smaller vehicle collisions. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that only about three percent of all registered motor vehicles are large trucks, yet large trucks play a role in 12 percent of traffic fatalities, leading to more than 5,000 deaths annually. Additionally, individuals sustain significant injury in 23 percent of nonfatal truck accidents. Large trucks are also involved in fatal multiple vehicle crashes and fatal automobile fires at far higher rates than cars, motorcycles, ATVs and boats.
At Dickinson & Gibbons, P.A., our experienced Florida trucking and transportation attorneys recognize just how dangerous truck collisions can be. Our clients include those who suffered very serious injuries in trucking crashes often caused by inattention or negligence. We understand the unique issues that accompany truck accident cases.
Handling Accidents Involving 18-Wheelers, Semi-Trucks and Tractor-Trailers in Florida
Large trucks are complicated vehicles to operate and maintain. In fact, truck drivers must complete extensive training, carry special licenses and adhere to strict guidelines involving rest, substance consumption and cargo loading. But despite the stringent laws, many trucking accidents still result from driver negligence. A negligent driver who causes an accident that leads to serious injury or death might become distracted, drive while extremely fatigued and without adhering to rest regulations, fail to load or secure cargo properly, or fail to perform necessary maintenance and safety checks.
Additionally, liability could extend to trucking companies or other employers who fail to provide drivers with sufficient training or neglect to enforce existing regulations. Common truck accidents resulting in injury include:
- Rollovers
- Brake failure due to lack of maintenance
- Underride accidents
- Turns too wide
- Head-on collisions
- Jack-knifing
- Tire blowouts
- Unsecured cargo
Victims of personal injury in trucking and transportation accidents are entitled to coverage for medical expenses, personal vehicle damage, property damage and physical and emotional distress. A Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer from Dickinson & Gibbons, P.A. can represent your best interests, either through negotiation or - if necessary - at trial.
