Citing the coronavirus pandemic and the supply chain disruptions associated with it, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has either eliminated or watered down some key safety rules. As a result, drivers now feel like they can push the envelope even further, in terms of things like driving while they are fatigued. So, the number of truck-involved vehicle collisions is poised to increase from its already record-high levels.
The experienced tractor trailer accident attorneys at Payer Law routinely handle these matters in Orange County and nearby jurisdictions. So, we have built a strong reputation as lawyers who are always well-prepared and never make unnecessary compromises. This well-deserved reputation helps us obtain maximum compensation for your serious injuries.
Truck Wreck Injuries
A fully-loaded large truck weighs over 80,000 pounds. So, when these massive vehicles cause collisions, catastrophic injuries usually follow. Some examples include:
- Severe Burns: Ordinary gasoline and diesel fuel burn at different temperatures. Diesel fuel burns usually cause third or fourth-degree burns. These injuries normally require extensive, and expensive, treatment at specialized regional burn centers. Even after doctors finish their work, physical and emotional scars usually remain.
- Broken Bones: The extreme force in a truck wreck usually crushes bones. It doesn’t just break them. As a result, doctors must normally use metal parts to reconstruct these shattered bones. Once again, because of the serious nature of these injuries, some permanent lost function is often inevitable.
- Head Injuries: This same force causes the brain to violently slam against the inside of the skulls, like a boxer who is punched into the ropes. Injuries like burns and broken bones usually heal, at least for the most part. But any brain injury is permanent. When brain cells die, they never regenerate. Fortunately, a combination of surgery and therapy can usually allow these victims to live somewhat normal lives.
The medical bills alone in cases like this usually exceed $50,000. This amount adds a significant financial burden to families who are already just getting by, especially when their primary or only income provider is unable to work.
Our Orlando tractor trailer accident lawyers reduce this financial stress by connecting victims with doctors who charge nothing upfront for their services. These doctors are top-notch professionals who know how to diagnose and treat head injuries and other injury-related conditions.
Liability Issues
In addition to compensation for medical bills and other economic losses, these victims are usually entitled to compensation for noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering. To obtain it, they must prove negligence, or a lack of care, by a preponderance of the evidence, or more likely than not.
Since truckers are professional drivers, they usually have a higher duty of care than noncommercial motorists. Following distance illustrates the difference. Most noncommercial motorists must keep two seconds between themselves and the vehicles in front of them. The recommended following distance for truck drivers is at least four seconds.
So, it’s easier to establish negligence, or a lack of care, in these cases. However, evidence is still necessary. Proof in a truck wreck claim usually includes medical bills, the victim/plaintiff’s own testimony, witness statements, and the police accident report. Physical evidence, such as crash patterns, photographs, and skidmarks, could be important as well.
This proof must be strong enough to bolster the victim/plaintiff’s negligence claim and also refute some common insurance company defenses, such as comparative fault. This legal loophole shifts blame for accidents from tortfeasors (negligent drivers) to victims.
Contact a Savvy Orange County Lawyer
Injury victims are usually entitled to significant compensation. For a free consultation with an experienced tractor trailer accident attorney in Orlando, contact Payer Law. We do not charge upfront legal fees in these matters.
