When you’re out on the road, the last thing you might imagine is ending up in an accident with a semi-truck. However, truck collisions are particularly common, leaving victims facing life-altering injuries, property damage, and mounting medical bills.
Experiencing a truck accident is unfortunate, but you may have legal options. A truck accident lawyer in Dade City from Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers can provide legal guidance and help determine the best steps toward reaching compensation for your injuries and losses.
Table of Contents
- Our Dade City Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
- Truck Accidents in Florida
- Common Causes of Truck Accidents
- Determining Cause and Fault
- Compensation for Truck Accident Cases
- Dade City Truck Accidents - Frequently Asked Questions
- Consult a Dade City Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
Our Dade City Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Getting into a semi-truck accident can be scary and have lasting results. After a collision, it is best to work with an experienced truck accident lawyer to help pursue the compensation you’re owed.
Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers have extensive experience helping clients when they need us most. We have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle even the most challenging aspects of your case, including dealing with difficult insurance companies. Our firm provides the care and compassion you need while fiercely advocating on your behalf.
You don’t have to handle your truck accident case alone. Let Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers fight for your right to compensation.
Truck Accident Cases Results
Our firm is proud to have helped numerous clients receive compensation for their injuries in the past.
Some of our notable truck accident case results include:
- $3,300,000: Truck accident resulting in multiple orthopedic fractures and surgeries.
- $1,250,000: Truck accident resulting in a significant laceration, jaw injury, and brain injury.
- $880,000: Truck accident resulting in back and neck injuries with complications during surgery.
It is worth noting compensation varies and is never fully guaranteed. However, our team will work diligently to help get you the fairest possible outcome for your case.
Truck Accidents in Florida
Truck accidents happen quite frequently in Florida. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, 4,846 vehicles were involved in large truck accidents resulting in fatalities. Unfortunately, Florida consistently ranks among the top states for semi-truck accidents.
U.S.-301 and U.S.-98 run directly through Dade City. These roads are often busy, with heavy truck traffic, making accidents more common.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, do not hesitate to consult with a Dade City truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Truck Accident Cases are Complex
Many believe truck accident cases are very similar to car accident cases, but that is never the case. Several factors make truck accident cases much more challenging to handle, requiring the assistance of a qualified truck accident attorney.
#1. Trucks are Destructive
Just looking at a semi-truck, it is clear to imagine the severe injuries and property damage it can cause. Because trucks are so large and heavy, a collision with one can have much more serious consequences, resulting in a more complicated case.
#2. The Trucking Industry Has Strict Regulations
Everyone involved in the trucking industry must follow strict state and federal regulations. Many of these rules are set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover every trucking-related topic, including the number of hours a truck driver can reasonably drive without rest and rules for logbooks.
Violating these regulations can result in penalties for various parties. These violations can play a role in a truck accident case, as they may help prove liability.
#3. Trucks Carry More Insurance Coverage
Because trucks can cause such significant destruction, they are required to carry greater insurance coverage. Therefore, insurance companies will work much harder to limit liability to avoid paying. A truck accident attorney can best handle insurance companies, as they often put up a fight.
#4. Liability Can Be Complicated
Determining who is liable in a truck accident can be difficult. In many cases, more than one party holds responsibility for the accident. To pursue compensation, you must first determine who is at fault.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents typically happen quickly for many different reasons.
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
- Brake or mechanical failure
- Speeding
- Insufficient truck maintenance
- Inadequate driver training
- Improperly loaded/overloaded cargo
- Road construction
- Severe weather conditions
Determining the cause of your truck accident is one of the most important parts of your case. Your accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the cause.
Liability in Truck Accident Cases
The trucking industry is unique, as many parties can play a role in a truck accident.
After a collision with a semi-truck, you can hold any of the following parties responsible:
- The truck driver
- The owner of the truck
- The trucking company
- Manufacturers of the truck or truck parts
- The party responsible for truck maintenance
- The party responsible for loading the cargo
In many cases, multiple parties share liability. It is essential to accurately determine who is responsible for seeking maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Proving Liability After a Semi-Truck Collision
Proving a party is liable for your car accident requires you to establish their negligence.
To prove negligence, you must prove:
- The party owed you a duty of care
- They breached this duty of care
- The breach was the cause of your accident
- You suffered losses as a result
If you can prove a party is negligent, you can then pursue compensation for your injuries.
Determining Cause and Fault
Your truck accident lawyer can utilize certain tools when determining who and what caused your collision.
These include:
- The truck’s black box: A black box, also called an electronic data recorder (EDR), is a small computer inside the truck. It records details about the truck, including travel speed.
- Truck logs: Certain parties, including truck drivers and those responsible for truck maintenance, must keep detailed logs. These logs can be used to determine both cause and fault.
- Police reports: After your accident, police will gather details about your accident and turn it into a police report. Police reports commonly offer valuable insight.
Gathering this information can be challenging, but your truck accident attorney can help ensure they have everything they need to make conclusions regarding the cause of your accident and who is at fault.
Injuries Resulting from Truck Collisions
Injuries resulting from semi-truck collisions often depend on the severity of the accident. Injuries, nevertheless, are typically serious.
The most common types of injuries from truck accidents include:
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Fractured or broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Facial injuries
- Head and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputation injuries
In the most unfortunate cases, truck accidents result in the victim’s death.
It is vital to get medical attention right away after a truck accident. Not only should you always put your health and wellbeing first, but medical records also play an integral role in your case.
Compensation for Truck Accident Cases
Damages serve to compensate you for the tangible and intangible losses resulting from your accident. Damages fall into two categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages stem directly from your accident and are easily provable.
These include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-economic damages are also directly related to your accident but are not as easily quantifiable.
They include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional anguish
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement
In addition, if the defendant's actions were grossly negligent or intentional, the court may grant punitive damages to punish and deter future conduct.
If the truck accident results in the victim’s death, their family may be entitled to seek damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.
Wrongful death claim damages can include:
- Medical expenses
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering of the victim
- Loss of support
- Lost wages and benefits
Damages can be tricky to calculate alone, and you may be unaware of what you’re owed. A truck accident attorney can fully review the details of your accident to determine the value of your case. They will then work diligently to get you the fairest possible outcome.
Dade City Truck Accidents - Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Florida?
Statutes of limitations dictate how long a plaintiff has to file a lawsuit. In Florida, the statute of limitations for truck accidents is four years.
While you can still file your claim after the four-year time limit has expired, you are unlikely to be successful. The opposing party can bring the statute expiration to the court’s attention, and the court will dismiss your case.
Failing to file your lawsuit in time can result in forfeiting your right to compensation. To ensure your case is handled timely, speak with a Dade City truck accident attorney as soon as you are able after your accident.
I don’t think I suffered any major injuries—should I still seek medical attention?
Yes—you should always seek medical attention. When you go through a traumatic incident like a truck collision, your body releases adrenaline. Adrenaline can temporarily hide any signs of injury. Even if you do not feel like you’ve sustained any significant injuries, it is always best to visit the emergency room or your primary care physician.
A thorough examination can reveal the extent of your injuries. Once you’re aware of your injuries, you can start treatment and get on the road to recovery.
Complete medical treatment and follow all recommendations from your doctor. Everything is well-documented in your medical records, and your truck accident lawyer will more than likely use these records to build a strong case.
What determines the value of my truck accident case?
Every case is different, so there is no “average” truck accident settlement.
When determining the value of your case, your lawyer will examine certain details, including:
- Your age and health
- The extent of your injuries
- The extent of your property damage
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- How long it will take for you to recover from your injuries
- Whether you’ll need medical treatment in the future
- Whether you’re left disabled or disfigured
- The amount of lost income
These and other factors can help establish how much your case is worth. Once your lawyer has determined the value of your case, they can pursue compensation on your behalf.
The insurance company made me a settlement offer. Should I take it?
Never accept a settlement offer without consulting a truck accident lawyer. Insurance companies will often present victims with a settlement offer in hopes they will accept it, but these offers are usually low and don't represent what you deserve.
Once you accept a settlement offer, you cannot go back and change your mind. Therefore, discuss your situation with a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer to help ensure you’re getting maximum financial recovery.
Will my truck accident case go to court?
Truck accident cases don’t always go to court. Truck accident lawyers engage in settlement negotiations with the other side, and if the negotiations are successful, your case will settle without the need to go to trial.
If your lawyer cannot get a fair amount and feels it is best to go to trial, they will continue to represent your best interests in court while pursuing the best possible outcome.
Consult a Dade City Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
After suffering a truck accident, you are not alone. Our truck accident lawyers are ready to hear your story and help you seek financial recovery.
Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers have served injured clients in South Florida for many years. We aim to provide clients with invaluable peace of mind while we handle their cases, giving them the ability to focus solely on their physical recovery. Our firm gives every client and case the personalized attention it deserves, as we know every situation is different.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, call our office at (352) 397-2248 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers
Address: 37751 Meridian Ave,Dade City, FL 33525
Phone: 352.397.2248
Client Testimonial
Nicolletti law really helped me! After my accident they took care of everything for me. They even called just to check on me and my Health. Very professional and took care of my case quickly. They are definitely 5 stars and I highly recommend!
Rating: 5/5Morgan H.
The Nicoletti team helped me through a very stressful time after my car accident. They answered all my questions and were always available and the the outcome was much more than anticipated. I would definitely hire them again.
Rating: 5/5Donna S.
This firm is fantastic. The day after my accident the insurance company called me and offered me $500. Thankfully before I accepted I called this Firm who not only took my frantic call on a Sunday but they helped me get into a rental vehicle the next day, got full value of my car back for me and my settlement was a lot higher than $500. Nicolette is so sweet and her paralegal Rita were an amazing help to me. Call them if you are ever in an accident. You will not be disappointed!
Rating: 5/5Eleanor P.
Anthony did a great job on my car accident claim. Highly recommend
Rating: 5/5Kim G.
I was involved in a car accident in Feb. 2020. The whole team at Nicoletti Law Firm and especially Anthony Nicoletti were very professional. They answered all my questions and returned my phone calls very promptly. I would recommend them to anyone who has a need for an injury lawyer. Thanks to everyone in the office!
Rating: 5/5Deborah V.
I got into an automobile accident and needed professional help.After asking around the law firm of Nicoletti was highly recommended. After choosing them my expectation where over achieved. Thanks for a great experience and a happy ending.
Rating: 5/5Nicholas Jamiel
My Daughter was in a scary car accident and Anthony and Rita at Nicoletti were so helpful from the beginning.Always kept us in the know,Always responsed to our questions and always took any call we made.Rita also made the communication process with the Car insurance easy as well. I hope we never need a lawyer again, BUT if we do we will definitely be giving them a call.
Rating: 5/5Vanessa G.
I was involved in an auto accident and I got hurt, I hired Nicoletti Law Firm and they were awesome with helping me get everything handled! Will always recommend them!
Rating: 5/5Taylor F.
We have hired them for our auto accident still waiting for case to close they have been very nice to us working hard I recommend them if anybody has an auto wreck very good people Anthony the paralegal is awesome I highly recommend them for any auto wreck and any slip and falls they work hard for you they’re the one to choose.
Rating: 5/5Dianna C.
After being in several accidents, I learned that the first call to make is to an attorney who knows what they are doing. I was referred to Nicolette by a friend and it was the best call I ever made. Nicolette and her staff stepped in and from that point on, the only thing I had to worry about was how to make life as normal as possible. Everyone at her office is so friendly and really made me feel comfortable with the entire situation. My car was fixed quickly which made life much easier. They were reachable at any time of the day and I never had to worry about anything. Nicolette is so down to earth and friendly. I had a great experience with this firm and would recommend Nicolette to anyone I know.
Rating: 5/5Sandra S.
I have never been in a serious auto accident until November 24th of 2018. At 23 years old and no idea how to even handle the situation I turned to Nicoletti Law Firm (as a recommendation by a close friend) to help me with my case against a drunk driver. When Say this law firm goes above and beyond to help you, THEY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND! The same day i contacted them they sent a cab to my house to take me to get check out. Completely on them, at no cost to me! Over the 5 months of us dealing with treating for my injuries and working things out with the insurance company to seek restitution they were there for me hand and foot. Even after business hours. Poor anthony was on VACATION and still answering all my calls and text messages. Nora was so professional and got back to me very quickly through emails and the phone every time i enquired about something. You won’t find a better legal team in the area who will truly fight for you heavily. Thank you SO much to each person in the office that helped me close my case and start moving forward with my life. Much appreciation, Alex.
Rating: 5/5Xanders R.
The Nicoletti’s are not only a great law group, they are for the people and are always willing to take your call. They took care of everything for me and my wife and made a bad situation easier to handle. I highly recommend for any auto accident.
Rating: 5/5David B.
I got intense anxiety after my accident. I felt like no one was on my side. First if all, I was not at fault but the other driver’s insurance offered less than I owe on my car and refused to budge. 2 days after I hired Nicolett, the insurance company offered to pay off my car and gave me enough for a down payment on a new one. Secondly, they referred us to a doctor who is helping with all of our injuries tremendously. These people all treat you like family. They are amazing!
Rating: 5/5Lisa W.
My wife and I was involved in an auto accident. After getting the run around from other law firm’s I was starting to give up until my wife called me doing her meeting with Anthony, and Nicolette! They are very honest, and trust worthy. They kept in contact with me doing the whole process, so I always knew what was going on. They cared about me and did not see me as $! After all of my surgeries they called and checked on me! They did not wait days to check on me they called me the same day of my surgeries and a few days afterwards. No matter what time of day it was Anthony always returned my text messages and phone calls within 24 hours! I am very grateful and true bless to have had them by my side! Isaiah
Rating: 5/5Isaiah B.
This firm was the best. They were referred to me through asking others on facebook who is a great attorney since i had a car accident and needed to be represented. I saw this firm typed in by many other people so I called and they said come in and we did all the paperwork. They dress casual and act professional in the office. I was explained everything and then sent to an spine doctor which is Dr Carlton on main st. Between them I was being taken care of. Now months went by and my case was being worked on per Dr Carlton. More time went by and then the calls started and what happened was the claims dept. had many people leaving and a new adjuster starting over and over which led to the attorney having to resubmit everything every time. This happened three times. So long story shorter, they had to do multiple things uncommon to any case and still just diligently kept on the insurance companies and finally all was done and agreed on. check in hand. My case took longer due to the other persons insurance issues, not the attorney. If you want to be guided through the entire process, have a great team of spine and therapy to make your healing better, dont even hesitate to see this Nicoletti team. Also Dr Carlton and his amazing perfect two woman staff Faith and Dana. Never seen such a place run so well, so pleasant and so easy to get things done on my neck and back. All were very personable so call this team and let them go to work for you. There are others and then theres the Nicoletti husband and wife team. If you want to call the bigger tv guy attorneys go ahead but it wont be as personable as these people. If there were a 10 star rating they earned it………….. Walt
Rating: 5/5Walter V.
I was involved in a motor vehicle accident where I was hit from behind while stopped at a red light. The accident happened in the evening time around 7PM. I was informed of this firm and how they had highly motivated attorneys and were very easy to get along with. I called one of their attorneys after hours and they immediately got the ball rolling on my claim. This was my first accident and the Nicoletti law firm helped me every step of the way. There was a lot that was unfamiliar to me, so Kevin, my attorney helped explain things to me so that I could understand the process. He never made me feel incompetent or that I was a bother. He was always very quick to return my calls/messages, which led to quick results. I hope I never get in another accident or become injured, but if I do, I know I can trust the Nicoletti law firm. This group is honest and very hard working. They will get the results you deserve.
Rating: 5/5Austin L.
I was in a car accident and needed professional help.Afer asking around I was given theame name of tThanks to my legal Nicoletti Warkeamer law firm.The results from my experience was overwhelming. The result of my case was an experience of gratitude. Thanks to my legal team.
Rating: 5/5Nicholas J.