How Truck Accident Claims Differ from Car Accident Claims in Florida
Introduction
Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries and complex legal claims compared to standard car accidents. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, crashes involving these vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Additionally, truck accident cases involve federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and higher insurance coverage, making them more complicated than typical car accident claims.
This guide explains how truck accident claims differ from car accident claims in Florida, who may be liable, and how victims can seek compensation.
Key Differences Between Truck and Car Accident Claims
While both truck and car accidents involve negligence and personal injury laws, truck accidents differ in the following ways:
1. Trucks Are Subject to Federal and State Regulations
Unlike passenger vehicles, commercial trucks must comply with both Florida traffic laws and federal trucking regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern:
- Maximum driving hours (to prevent drowsy driving)
- Weight limits for cargo
- Mandatory vehicle inspections and maintenance
- Driver qualification and training requirements
If a trucking company violates FMCSA regulations, they may be held liable for accidents caused by driver fatigue, overloaded trucks, or mechanical failures.
2. Multiple Parties May Be Liable
In a typical car accident, one driver is usually at fault. However, in truck accident cases, several parties may be responsible, including:
- Truck driver (for reckless driving, fatigue, or DUI)
- Trucking company (for negligent hiring, poor maintenance, or pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations)
- Cargo loaders (if an improperly loaded truck caused the crash)
- Truck manufacturers (if defective parts contributed to the accident)
Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of company records, driver logs, and truck maintenance history.
3. Truck Accidents Cause More Severe Injuries
Because commercial trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds, collisions often result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Multiple fractures and internal bleeding
- Severe burns or amputations
Victims may face long-term disabilities, requiring ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
4. Higher Insurance Coverage and Larger Settlements
Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than personal auto policies due to the greater risk of severe injuries. While a standard car insurance policy in Florida has minimum coverage of $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP), trucking companies often have liability coverage exceeding $1 million.
However, higher insurance limits mean insurance companies will fight harder to minimize payouts. This makes legal representation essential in truck accident cases.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Florida
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue (violating FMCSA hours-of-service rules)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use)
- Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
- Poor truck maintenance (brake failures, tire blowouts)
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
Each of these factors can impact who is liable and how much compensation is available for victims.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately—Even if injuries are not obvious, internal injuries can be life-threatening.
- Call the police and request a crash report—Florida law requires reporting any accident involving injuries or property damage over $500.
- Take photos and videos—Document vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs.
- Get witness contact information—Eyewitness testimony can help establish what happened.
- Do not speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster—They may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low settlement.
- Contact a truck accident attorney—Legal representation is crucial in negotiating with trucking companies and insurance providers.
What Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Recover?
Truck accident victims may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy)
- Lost wages (if unable to work)
- Future medical costs for long-term disabilities
- Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Punitive Damages
If the truck driver or company acted with reckless disregard for safety (such as falsifying driver logs or violating safety regulations), punitive damages may be awarded to punish wrongful conduct.
Challenges in Truck Accident Cases
Trucking companies and their insurers will often use aggressive legal tactics to reduce their liability, including:
- Blaming the victim for the accident
- Delaying the claims process to pressure victims into accepting low settlements
- Destroying or altering trucking records (such as driver logs or maintenance reports)
An experienced truck accident attorney can fight back against these tactics, gather crucial evidence, and negotiate for maximum compensation.
How a Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
Because truck accidents involve complex laws, multiple liable parties, and high-stakes negotiations, hiring a lawyer is essential. A truck accident attorney can:
- Investigate driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records
- Determine who is at fault and file claims against all responsible parties
- Negotiate with trucking companies and their insurers
- File a lawsuit if a fair settlement is not offered
At Bonderud Law, we have extensive experience handling truck accident cases and fighting for the rights of injured victims. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
Conclusion
Truck accidents in Florida differ from car accidents due to federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and higher insurance limits. Because trucking companies and insurers will aggressively fight claims, accident victims must take immediate action to protect their rights.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
