Hit By A Stolen Semi-Truck In Orlando: What Are My Options?
Suffering injuries in a semi-truck crash caused by a negligent trucker is one thing. But what happens if the person behind the wheel wasn’t even qualified to drive the semi-truck? What happens if they stole the truck before going on a joyride? This certainly complicates matters, but recovering compensation might not be as difficult as you think – especially if you work with a qualified attorney.
Man Steals Semi-Truck and Leads Police on a Wild Chase in Florida
As crazy as it might sound, people steal semi-trucks on a fairly regular basis in Florida. At the end of December in 2022, a man drove a semi-truck recklessly through the streets of Orlando. The truck had apparently been stolen in Georgia before being driven across state lines. Dashcam footage from the pursuing squad cars was released, and it showed the semi-truck barreling straight through red lights and weaving through traffic while the driver tossed items out of the window.
After a “parade” of police cars joined the chase, the suspect was eventually stopped outside the Orlando VA Center. A standoff ensued, lasting for several hours before a SWAT team rushed in and took the suspect into custody. The chase spanned over 90 miles and was one of the wildest ever seen in the Orlando area. The suspect was charged with fleeing, eluding, leaving the scene of a crash, and grand theft of a motor vehicle.
Florida’s No-Fault Laws
Florida follows a system of “no-fault” car insurance, which means that it’s possible to sue even without suing negligent parties. This is often beneficial for victims of criminal drivers with no car insurance, such as those who steal semi-trucks. Even if you could sue these criminals directly, it wouldn’t provide you with much compensation since most people who steal vehicles aren’t exactly rich. In states without no-fault laws, victims would be left with very few options for compensation. But Florida lets you turn to your own PIP insurance for a settlement without actually suing anyone or holding anyone accountable for your injuries.
Of course, the PIP system has its limitations – the most obvious of which being your policy limit. Your payout may not cover your total damages – especially if you have suffered a serious injury. In addition, the no-fault system does not provide compensation for non-economic injuries, such as emotional distress. In this situation, it may be possible to sue the police for creating an unsafe situation by pursuing the stolen semi-truck and putting innocent people in danger.
Where Can I Find a Qualified, Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Orlando?
If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Orlando personal injury attorney, look no further than Payer Law. We know how destructive and life-altering semi-truck accidents can be. With our assistance, you can strive for the best possible results in a confident, efficient manner. Florida’s no-fault laws allow you to sue without establishing negligence, so get in touch today to get started with an effective action plan. Compensation for your damages may be easier than you think.
Sources:
clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/12/29/watch-stolen-semi-involved-in-orlando-va-standoff-leads-ocala-police-on-chase/
wallethub.com/answers/ci/is-florida-a-no-fault-state-2140703678/#:~:text=WalletHub%2C%20Financial%20Company&text=Yes%2C%20Florida%20is%20a%20no,of%20who%20was%20at%20fault.
