With Interstate 95 (I-95) and other major roadways in the area, it’s no surprise that Jacksonville, Florida, sees its fair share of commercial trucking accidents. These crashes typically happen when truck drivers violate standard traffic laws, and trucking companies take shortcuts.
If you suffered injuries in a recent Jacksonville truck collision, the knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers could swiftly investigate your accident circumstances, go over your options with you, and set you on course to recover the full compensation you deserve.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Jacksonville trucking accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?
Obtaining fair compensation after a Jacksonville trucking accident can be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to accomplish on your own. This is because insurance companies will look for any excuse to undervalue your truck accident claim.
The knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers understands the tactics that insurance companies use to downplay claims and can aggressively combat these tactics. Our lawyers have a strong track record of success and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for injured accident victims. You can see our most recent client testimonials by clicking here.
Let us help maximize your monetary recovery and obtain the justice you deserve following your Jacksonville trucking accident.
How Much is a Third-Party Jacksonville Trucking Accident Claim Worth?
Victims of trucking accidents in Jacksonville may be eligible to file a third-party claim or lawsuit if they suffer a “threshold injury.” These injuries are typically permanent in nature or involve some type of disfigurement.
In a third-party truck accident case, you may be entitled to receive compensation, depending on the case specifics. This compensation is meant to cover the damages and losses you’ve suffered as a direct result of the collision.
- One of the losses that you can recover compensation for is medical expenses. This includes the cost of any emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments you may need as a result of your injuries. Medical expenses can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands, depending on the severity of your injuries.
- You can also recover your lost earnings. If your injuries prevent you from working – either temporarily or permanently – you can be compensated for the income you’ve lost. If your ability to earn a living is affected long-term, you may also receive compensation for loss of earning capacity.
- Another form of compensation is for pain and suffering. This covers the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured due to the truck accident. The amount awarded for pain and suffering can be more difficult to calculate because it’s subjective.
- If the truck driver or trucking company was particularly negligent or reckless, you may also be entitled to receive punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are less common and usually awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were especially egregious.
Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Jacksonville?
In Jacksonville, Florida, commercial trucking accidents are most common in specific areas where traffic is heavy, road conditions are challenging, or the design of the roadway increases the risk of collisions.
- One of the most common locations for trucking accidents in Jacksonville is Interstate 95 (I-95). This major highway runs along the East Coast and passes directly through Jacksonville. It’s a vital route for commercial trucks transporting goods up and down the coast. The high volume of traffic, combined with frequent lane changes and speeding, can lead to serious accidents involving trucks.
- Another hotspot for trucking accidents is Interstate 10 (I-10), which connects the East and West sides of Jacksonville. I-10 is another heavily trafficked route for commercial trucks – particularly those traveling cross-country. The stretch of I-10 that intersects with I-95 is especially prone to accidents, as the merging and exiting of vehicles create opportunities for collisions.
- U.S. Route 1 (US-1), also known as Philips Highway, is another area in Jacksonville where trucking accidents are common. This road runs parallel to I-95 and is a major thoroughfare for trucks entering and exiting the city. The road is often congested, and the mix of commercial trucks with regular commuter traffic increases the likelihood of accidents.
- The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) area is also a significant location for trucking accidents. As one of the busiest ports in the country, a large number of trucks enter and exit the port daily, transporting goods. The roads surrounding JAXPORT, including Heckscher Drive, are often congested with heavy trucks, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
- Lastly, State Road 202 (J. Turner Butler Boulevard), which connects the central part of Jacksonville to the beaches, is another common site for trucking accidents. This roadway experiences heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours, and the mix of high speeds and frequent lane changes can lead to dangerous situations involving trucks.
Types of Jacksonville Truck Collisions
In Jacksonville, Florida, commercial trucking accidents often are caused by negligence by truck drivers and trucking companies:
- One common category is rear-end collisions. These accidents often occur when a truck driver is distracted, fatigued, or following too closely behind another vehicle. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, it can be difficult to stop quickly, leading to serious rear-end collisions that can cause severe damage and injuries.
- Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle crashes into the back or side of a truck and slides underneath it. These accidents are often fatal, as the smaller vehicle’s roof can be crushed or sheared off. Underride accidents may occur due to inadequate lighting or reflectors on the truck, poor visibility, or sudden stops by the truck driver.
- Another frequent type of accident is a jackknife accident. This happens when a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding knife. Jackknife accidents often occur when a truck driver brakes suddenly on slippery roads or takes a turn too quickly. This type of accident can block multiple lanes of traffic and lead to severe multi-vehicle collisions.
- Rollover accidents are another dangerous category. These occur when a truck overturns onto its side or roof, often due to speeding, taking a curve too fast, or improper cargo loading. Rollover accidents are especially dangerous because they can lead to secondary collisions with other vehicles on the road.
- Wide-turn accidents are also common in Jacksonville. Trucks require more space to make turns, and when a driver fails to properly check their blind spots or doesn’t allow enough space, they can collide with vehicles or pedestrians in the surrounding area.
- Lastly, tire blowouts can lead to catastrophic accidents. Poor maintenance by trucking companies, such as failing to regularly check and replace worn-out tires, can cause a blowout, leading to loss of control and severe accidents.
Common Injuries in a Jacksonville Trucking Crash
Victims of commercial trucking accidents in Jacksonville, Florida, can suffer a wide range of physical and mental injuries that require extensive medical treatment. These injuries can vary in severity, but they often have long-lasting effects on the victim’s health and quality of life.
Physical injuries are the most immediate and visible consequences of a trucking accident. One of the most common types is whiplash, which occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then back, causing neck strain. While whiplash may seem “minor,” it can lead to chronic pain and require ongoing physical therapy.
Broken bones are also common in trucking accidents, especially in the arms and legs. Depending on the severity, these fractures may require surgery, casting, or extensive rehabilitation. In some cases, victims may also suffer from spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often demand long-term care and may permanently alter a victim’s ability to work or perform daily activities.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are another serious consequence of trucking accidents. TBIs occur when the head experiences a sudden impact, leading to brain damage. These injuries can result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty with speech and movement. Treating TBIs often involves surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
In addition to physical injuries, victims of trucking accidents may suffer from mental and emotional trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental injury that can develop after a severe truck accident. Symptoms of PTSD often include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. Treatment for PTSD often involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Victims may also experience emotional distress, which can manifest as depression, anxiety, or a fear of driving or being near trucks. Emotional distress can significantly affect a victim’s daily life and may require counseling or psychiatric care.
Fighting the Insurance Company Following a Jacksonville Truck Accident
If you’re involved in a trucking accident in Jacksonville, Florida, fighting the insurance company can be challenging, but having experienced legal support can make a significant difference. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can help you navigate this process:
- Investigate the Accident – First, we thoroughly investigate the accident scene, gather evidence, and consult with experts to build a strong case. This includes collecting police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data to understand what happened and who was at fault.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to save money. We negotiate directly with them to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and lost income. Our goal is to counter any lowball settlement offers and push for the full amount you deserve.
- Handle All Paperwork and Deadlines – Legal and insurance paperwork can be overwhelming. We manage all necessary documents and ensure that everything is filed correctly and on time, preventing delays and ensuring that your claim is processed smoothly.
- Represent You in Court – If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. We present evidence, argue on your behalf, and fight for a favorable verdict.
- Understand PIP Insurance – In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers medical expenses and lost income, regardless of fault, up to a certain limit. However, PIP has its limits and does not cover all damages. We help navigate PIP claims and seek additional compensation through other avenues, such as suing the at-fault driver or their insurance.
By handling these aspects of your case, we work to ensure that you get the compensation you need to cover medical bills, repair costs, and other damages. Our goal is to ease your stress and secure a positive outcome for your trucking accident case.
Essential Steps to Take after a Truck Accident in Jacksonville
After being involved in a trucking accident in Jacksonville, Florida, it’s crucial to follow several key steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:
- Retain Important Documentation – Start by gathering and preserving all relevant documentation. This includes the police report, medical records, insurance information, and any photos of the accident scene and damages. Keeping thorough records will support your claim and establish the facts of the case.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies – Do not discuss the details of the accident with an insurance company on your own. Insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation or use your statements against you. It’s best to let us handle all communications to protect your interests.
- Complete Your Medical Treatment – Follow through with all recommended medical treatments and keep detailed records of your injuries and recovery. This documentation is crucial for proving the extent of your damages and the effects on your life.
- Consult a Jacksonville Truck Accident Attorney – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work to secure the fair compensation you need.
Consult with an Experienced Jacksonville Trucking Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we are prepared to aggressively advocate for your interests and maximize the compensation you receive for your truck accident losses. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Jacksonville trucking accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.