Trucking accidents in the Orlando region are common on Interstate 4 (I-4) and other major area roadways. These accidents typically happen when truck drivers and trucking companies take shortcuts and fail to follow traffic laws and motor carrier regulations.
If you recently suffered injuries in an Orlando trucking crash, the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We can aggressively fight for your interests every step of the way and work to maximize the compensation you receive for your losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Orlando truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?
When it comes to maximizing your damages in an Orlando trucking accident claim or lawsuit, you want the best possible legal team in your corner. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for injured accident victims, including those who have suffered injuries in trucking crashes. We know how to negotiate with insurance companies effectively – and, if necessary, take cases to trial – to achieve favorable results for our clients.
You can see our most recent client testimonials by clicking on the following link. Let us help you obtain the financial compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses right away.
How Much is a Third-Party Orlando Trucking Accident Claim Worth?
Victims of trucking accidents in Orlando may be eligible to file a third-party claim for compensation if they suffer a “threshold injury,” which is usually a permanent or disfiguring injury. In a third-party trucking accident claim, you can seek compensation to cover different aspects of the harm you’ve suffered. Here’s a breakdown of the compensation you can recover in your claim or lawsuit:
- Medical Expenses – This covers the costs of treating injuries sustained in the accident. It includes hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need. Ensuring that all of your medical expenses are documented is crucial for claiming this compensation.
- Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve lost. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, and any other form of income. If you have to take time off work or if your injuries affect your ability to earn in the future, you can seek compensation for these losses.
- Pain and Suffering – This compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress that results from the trucking accident. It is more subjective and can vary widely, but it compensates for the effects on your quality of life and emotional well-being.
- Emotional Distress – In addition to pain and suffering, you may also receive compensation for severe emotional distress. This can include anxiety, depression, or other psychological effects directly related to the truck accident.
- Future Damages – If your injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability, you can seek compensation for future medical expenses, ongoing therapy, and long-term loss of income.
When pursuing compensation, it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable Orlando truck accident attorney. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can help gather evidence, accurately calculate damages, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Frequently Occur in Orlando?
In Orlando, Florida, trucking accidents often occur in certain types of locations due to the busy nature of the area and the high volume of commercial traffic. Here are some typical locations where trucking accidents frequently happen in Orlando:
- Intersections – Busy intersections are high-risk areas for truck accidents. With multiple roads converging, the likelihood of collisions increases. Truck drivers often struggle with turning and navigating intersections due to their size, which can lead to accidents – especially if drivers do not follow traffic signals properly.
- Highways and Interstates – Major highways and interstates, such as Interstate 4 (I-4) and Florida’s Turnpike, are common sites for trucking accidents. These roads handle a large amount of commercial truck traffic, and speed limits can contribute to the severity of accidents. Traffic congestion, lane changes, and high speeds all play a role in accidents on these routes.
- Construction Zones – Construction areas are another frequent location for trucking accidents. Truck drivers may have to navigate detours, reduced lanes, and changing traffic patterns, which can be confusing and hazardous. The presence of construction equipment and workers also increases the risk of accidents.
- Parking Lots – Large parking lots, such as those at warehouses, distribution centers, and retail stores, are also common accident sites for trucks. Truck drivers maneuvering in tight spaces or backing up can easily collide with other vehicles or stationary objects – especially if they are not paying attention.
- Residential Areas – Commercial trucks traveling through residential neighborhoods can also be involved in accidents. Due to narrower roads and frequent turns, navigating these areas can be challenging for large trucks, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Near Popular Attractions – Orlando is home to several popular tourist destinations, including theme parks and entertainment venues. Trucks delivering goods to these locations or passing through high-traffic areas near these attractions are more likely to be involved in accidents due to heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Types of Trucking Accidents in Orlando
In Orlando, Florida, the causes of trucking accidents are often negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. Here are the most frequent types of trucking accidents that are linked to negligence:
- Rear-End Collisions – These accidents often occur when a truck fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle in front. Often resulting from driver inattention or excessive speed, rear-end collisions are particularly dangerous on busy roads or during heavy traffic conditions.
- Side-Impact Collisions – Also known as T-bone accidents, these collisions happen when a truck strikes another vehicle from the side. This type of collision is common at intersections and can be the result of a truck driver running a red light or failing to yield.
- Jackknife Accidents – A jackknife accident occurs when a truck’s trailer swings out and forms an angle with the cab, resembling the shape of a folded knife. This situation can arise from sudden braking or poor weather conditions and often leads to multi-vehicle pileups.
- Rollover Accidents – Trucks – especially those carrying heavy loads – can roll over if drivers take sharp turns too quickly or are driving on uneven road surfaces. Rollover accidents often result from improper load distribution or excessive speed.
- Blind Spot Accidents – Trucks have large blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see vehicles in adjacent travel lanes. Accidents occur when a truck driver negligently changes lanes without checking their blind spots or when other drivers are not visible to the truck driver.
- Improper Turns – Trucks making wide or incorrect turns can collide with other vehicles or pedestrians. This negligence often results from inadequate driver training or failure to account for the truck’s large turning radius.
- Equipment Failures – Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to equipment failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts. These failures can cause severe accidents if not addressed promptly.
- Overloaded Trucks – Trucks carrying loads that exceed their weight limits can experience difficulty in braking and handling, leading to accidents. This negligence often results from pressure to meet delivery deadlines without proper regard for safety regulations.
What are the Most Common Injuries in an Orlando Trucking Accident?
In an Orlando, Florida, truck accident, the severity of injuries can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the crash. However, there are several common types of injuries that individuals involved in these accidents may suffer:
- Whiplash – This is a common neck injury that results from the sudden, jerking motion of the head, often seen in rear-end collisions. Whiplash can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.
- Broken Bones – The force of a truck accident can result in fractures or broken bones in various parts of the body. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries often require medical intervention, including immobilization and, in severe cases, surgery.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can also cause serious, long-lasting effects, including partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries may occur if the force of the crash causes significant trauma to the back or neck.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – TBIs result from a violent blow or jolt to the head, which can occur if the head strikes a hard surface during a truck accident. Symptoms of TBIs range from concussions to severe brain damage, potentially affecting cognitive functions and motor skills.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Common soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions. Though often less visible, they can be painful and require extensive physical therapy for recovery.
- Chest and Abdominal Injuries – The force of a trucking accident can also lead to injuries in the chest and abdominal areas, including bruised ribs, collapsed lungs, or abdominal trauma. These injuries can cause severe pain and require careful treatment.
Beyond these physical injuries, Orlando trucking accidents can also lead to psychological effects, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The trauma from the accident can affect emotional well-being and daily functioning.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Truck Accident in Orlando
Fighting the insurance company in an Orlando, Florida, truck accident case requires a strategic approach to ensure you receive fair compensation. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can help:
- Gathering Evidence – One of the first steps is to collect all relevant evidence, including copies of police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos of the accident. A thorough investigation helps establish liability and supports your claim.
- Calculating Damages – We will work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately calculate your damages. This includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any future costs related to your injuries.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies routinely try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. We can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, countering lowball offers and arguing for fair compensation based on your evidence and damages.
- Handling PIP Insurance – In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory for all drivers. PIP covers medical expenses and lost income up to a certain limit, regardless of who is at fault. However, PIP coverage may not be enough to cover all of your damages, especially in severe truck accident cases. We can help you understand your available PIP coverage and determine if additional compensation is necessary.
- Pursuing Additional Claims – If your damages exceed PIP limits, you suffered a “threshold injury,” or another party’s negligence is involved, we can file a third-party claim against the negligent truck driver’s or trucking company’s insurance carrier. This can provide additional compensation for damages not covered under PIP.
- Preparing for Trial – If negotiations fail, we will prepare to take your case to court. This involves presenting evidence, arguing your case before a judge and jury, and advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Important Steps to Take after a Trucking Accident in Orlando
After a trucking accident in Florida, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your health and strengthen your claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Finish Your Medical Treatment – Follow all medical advice and complete your treatment to ensure proper recovery and to document your injuries accurately.
- Retain All Documentation – Keep detailed records of all your medical treatments, expenses, and any correspondence related to the accident. This includes medical bills, prescription records, and notes from doctors. Document any loss of income and collect evidence from the accident scene, such as photos, witness statements, and police reports.
- Speak with an Orlando Trucking Accident Lawyer – Contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can help you understand your legal rights, guide you through the claims process, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Call an Experienced Orlando Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we are prepared to fight for your rights every step of the way and, if necessary, litigate your case to a resolution in court. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Orlando trucking accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.