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Kissimmee Truck Accident Attorneys – Paul Knopf Bigger
Were you involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler in Kissimmee? If a truck driver or trucking company caused your accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and financial losses. Unfortunately, trucking companies and their insurers aggressively fight to reduce or deny liability for such claims. That’s where an experienced Kissimmee truck accident attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger can make a difference.
Our team is dedicated to securing justice for accident victims in Kissimmee. With a strong track record of winning complex truck accident cases, we have the expertise and resources to build a powerful case on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Kissimmee truck accident lawyer from our firm. Call us now at (800) 434-4327.
Understanding How Florida Classifies Trucks
Florida law classifies trucks based on their weight and design. Here’s a breakdown:
- Truck: Any motor vehicle with a net weight of 5,000 pounds or less designed for transporting goods.
- Heavy Truck: Vehicles exceeding 5,000 pounds, designed to carry goods or tow trailers.
- Commercial Motor Vehicle: Vehicles not owned by a government entity and weighing over 26,001 pounds or equipped with three or more axles.
Additional classifications include:
- Truck Tractor: Designed for towing cargo using a fifth wheel.
- Wrecker: Used to tow vehicles with specialized equipment.
- Truck Trailer: A towed vehicle without its own power source.
- Semi-Trailer Truck: Combines a motorized truck with a trailer that partially rests on the towing vehicle.
Why Truck Accidents in Kissimmee Are More Complex
Truck accidents often involve significant challenges compared to typical motor vehicle collisions. Here’s why:
1. Extensive Evidence Requirements
Trucking companies must maintain detailed records, such as hours-of-service logs and vehicle maintenance reports. Analyzing these documents often requires technical expertise, particularly when records are stored digitally.
2. Multiple Injured Parties
When multiple victims are involved, settlements can become complicated. Insurers may attempt to resolve claims globally or deplete policy limits quickly.
3. Numerous Liable Parties
Liability may extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company, maintenance providers, or cargo loaders. Disputes between these parties can delay settlements.
4. Complex Corporate Structures
Trucking companies often use layered insurance policies or corporate subsidiaries, making it difficult to determine the responsible entity or available coverage.
Federal and State Trucking Regulations
Florida law and federal regulations govern commercial trucking to promote safety. For example:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Required for trucks over 26,001 pounds or carrying hazardous materials.
- Hours of Service: Drivers can drive up to 11 hours following a 10-hour off-duty period and must take a 30-minute break after eight hours.
- Adverse Driving Conditions: Drivers may extend their hours under certain circumstances, such as bad weather.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Kissimmee, Florida
Accidents involving commercial trucks often result from negligence, including:
- Speeding or tailgating.
- Reckless maneuvers, such as unsafe lane changes.
- Driver fatigue or distraction.
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs).
- Inadequate maintenance, such as brake failures.
- Improperly loaded cargo.
Severe Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents
The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks lead to catastrophic injuries in collisions, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis.
- Severe burns or lacerations.
- Broken bones and dislocations.
- Internal organ damage or internal bleeding.
In fatal accidents, families may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice for their loved ones.
Determining Liability in a Truck Accident
Several parties may share responsibility for a truck accident, including:
- The truck driver.
- The trucking company or cargo loader.
- Maintenance providers.
- The truck’s manufacturer or part suppliers.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of truck accidents in Kissimmee can seek compensation for various losses, including:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Long-term care for permanent disabilities.
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and diminished quality of life.
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Kissimmee
Taking the right steps after an accident can significantly impact your claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and document all injuries.
- Report the Accident: File a police report and collect contact information from witnesses.
- Preserve Evidence: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
- Consult a Lawyer: A skilled truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and secure fair compensation.
How Kissimmee Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Hiring an experienced attorney offers several advantages:
- They handle communication with insurance companies and defense attorneys.
- They gather and analyze critical evidence, including maintenance records and driver logs.
- They calculate the full extent of your losses to maximize compensation.
- They negotiate settlements or represent you in court if necessary.
Recovering from a truck accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Paul | Knopf | Bigger today for a free consultation. Let our experienced Kissimmee truck accident attorneys fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact the Kissimmee Truck Accident Attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger Today
If you suffered life-altering injuries in a commercial truck accident, you deserve to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Let the seasoned attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger advocate for your rights and interests. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Tampa. Call us now at (800) 434-4327.
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