Jacksonville, Florida Personal Injury
Trucking Accidents
NAVIGATING TRUCKING ACCIDENT CLAIMS IN JACKSONVILLE
Trucking accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries that can have a long-lasting impact on your life. However, obtaining compensation from the insurance companies involved requires proving that the truck driver or trucking company was at least partially at fault. Critical evidence of fault can be lost if not preserved promptly, as it may “drive away” from the scene. At The Howell Law Firm in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, Florida, we offer a free initial consultation to answer your questions about medical bills, lost wages, and trucking company liability, all with no obligation to hire us.
CHALLENGES WITH TRUCKING ACCIDENT INSURANCE CLAIMS
The Jacksonville area, with its major interstates I-95 and I-10, is a hub for trucking traffic, increasing the likelihood of serious accidents involving large trucks. Trucking companies are required to carry high-value insurance policies, often exceeding a million dollars, to cover the damages from truck-car collisions. However, the significant sums involved can lead insurance companies to employ tactics that minimize their payouts. It’s crucial to avoid signing any documents from the insurance company without consulting a lawyer, as doing so could result in waiving your rights to further compensation.
KEY STEPS IN PRESERVING EVIDENCE OF LIABILITY
Understanding Trucking Regulations: Large trucks must adhere to numerous safety regulations set by the Department of Transportation. For example, truck drivers are mandated to take rest breaks and maintain logbooks detailing their time on the road. These records, along with data from truck GPS systems that track speed, braking, and other movements, are vital in establishing fault. Our attorneys will work to secure this evidence before it is lost or destroyed, which can happen if steps are not taken promptly.
Evidence Preservation: One of the most critical actions after a trucking accident is to preserve evidence that could prove liability. This includes the truck’s black box data, driver logbooks, GPS information, and maintenance records. Truck drivers and companies are required to perform regular checks on their vehicles to prevent issues like brake failure, but evidence of these checks can be destroyed if not preserved quickly. Our legal team will send preservation letters and take immediate action to secure all relevant evidence, ensuring that nothing vital is lost.
Evaluating Insurance Coverage: Given that trucking companies carry substantial insurance policies, the stakes are high when it comes to compensation. Insurers may try to downplay the extent of injuries or the impact of the accident. Our attorneys are experienced in dealing with trucking accident cases and will meticulously evaluate the insurance coverage available to ensure you pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Handling Communications with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating, especially when they pressure you to settle quickly or sign documents that could limit your compensation. We handle all communications on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that any settlement reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses. Our goal is to prevent you from being shortchanged by aggressive insurance tactics.
Comprehensive Case Assessment: During your free initial consultation, we will assess all aspects of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your earning capacity, and the overall financial and emotional toll of the accident. We will then outline the best legal strategies to pursue your claim, whether through settlement negotiations or litigation.
COMMITMENT TO SECURING FAIR COMPENSATION
At The Howell Law Firm, we are dedicated to securing the compensation you need to recover from a trucking accident. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through every step, from preserving critical evidence to negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court. By taking a proactive approach to your case, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the complexities of trucking accident claims.
Call now for a Free Case Review
(904) 350-3600
Jacksonville Beach Office
320 First Street N. Suite 610 Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250
Phone: (904) 350-3600
Fax: (904) 659-8169
Email: Ken@TheHowellLawFirm.com
Ken Howell
Who We Serve
Our personal injury lawyers represent accident victims in: Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra Beach, Atlantic Beach, Green Cove Springs, Neptune Beach, Mandarin, Arlington, Mayport, Fernandina Beach, Callahan, Palatka, Yulee, Duval County, St. Johns County, Clay County and Nassau County on Florida’s First Coast.