Semis, 18-wheelers, and tractor-trailers are some of the largest vehicles traveling on Florida roadways, so it is not surprising to learn that they are also behind a disproportionately large percentage of fatal truck accidents. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that almost 300 people are killed in fatal truck accidents annually, putting the state in the Top 10 among all US states. Though the grief for surviving family members is considerable, you may also suffer significant emotional and financial losses when your loved one is no longer around to contribute.
While legal action cannot bring the victim back, you may be able to recoup fatal truck accident losses through a Florida wrongful death claim. The team at Payer Law has knowledge of the relevant laws, and we will fight to ensure you receive proper compensation after a horrific tragedy. Please contact us to schedule a case assessment with an fatal truck accident attorney, and take time to check out a summary.
Summary of Florida Truck Crash Laws
A wrongful death case is a type of personal injury action, except that the victim perished instead of being injured. As such, you will need evidence related to the essential elements of negligence in a fatal truck collision: You must prove that the incident occurred because the truck driver failed to exercise reasonable care when operating the truck. Negligence may be the same types of carelessness involved in other vehicle crashes, such as speeding, failure to yield, running red lights, or disregarding traffic controls. However, there are some forms of negligence that are specific to truck collisions, including:
- Taking turns too fast with a fully loaded trailer;
- Failing to inspect, maintain, or make proper repairs;
- Improper loading and/or securing cargo;
- Not complying with regulations on Hours of Service (HOS); and
- Carelessness in hiring and training the truck operator.
How the Legal Process Works for Wrongful Death Cases
Surviving spouses, minor children, parents, and other individuals may be entitled to recover monetary damages after a fatal truck crash, but it is the decedent’s personal representative who has standing to bring a wrongful death claim. Our Orlando fatal truck accident lawyers will assist with the first step, which is filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the insurer denies your claim or makes a lowball counteroffer, we will proceed by initiating litigation in civil court.
At Payer Law, our goal is to ensure you receive fair, reasonable compensation after a deadly truck collision. We will seek amounts for:
- Funeral and burial costs;
- Lost wages and future earning capacity; and
- Losses related to love, support, education, guidance, and other contributions.
Speak to an Orlando Fatal Truck Accident Attorney for Free
For more information on pursuing a wrongful death case after a deadly crash, please call 407-307-2979 or go online to reach the Orlando, FL office of Payer Law. We can set up a complimentary case evaluation with an Orlando fatal truck accident lawyer who will review your situation and advise you on next steps.
