An accident involving an 18-wheeler in West Palm Beach can have devastating effects, often leading to severe injuries or even wrongful death. Unlike standard car accidents, collisions with these large trucks can result in far more serious consequences.
If a truck driver or company in West Palm Beach fails to follow safety rules, they could be held accountable for the harm they cause. The Schiller Kessler Group, a trusted West Palm Beach 18-wheeler accident lawyer, has successfully helped secure compensation for over 30,000 Florida injury victims.
Reach out to a West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer at The Schiller Kessler Group for guidance on your next steps. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and explore your options for recovery.
Key Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in West Palm Beach
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer can provide insight into the most common causes. These include:
- Overloaded trucks: Carrying too much weight can cause tire blowouts or brake failures, resulting in dangerous roadway incidents.
- Truck malfunctions: Issues such as brake failures or electronic logging device (ELD) malfunctions can lead to a loss of control or missing critical safety checks, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted driving: Truck drivers may become distracted by activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, which can lead to dangerous lapses in attention.
- External pressure from trucking companies: Deadlines or company demands can push drivers to take risks or drive in unsafe conditions.
- Fatigue or illness: Long hours or health issues may impair a driver’s ability to operate safely.
- Inadequate surveillance: Failing to check blind spots or surroundings properly can lead to collisions.
- Prescription drug use: Some medications can impair a driver’s reaction time and judgment.
- Speeding for conditions: Traveling too fast, especially in poor weather or road conditions, increases the likelihood of accidents.
Our attorneys are ready to help if any of these situations have impacted you.
More people choose The Schiller Kessler Group because they know that we’re a cut above other personal injury law firms.
Common Injuries from Truck Accidents in Florida
Truck accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe, often with long-lasting effects. Data from the FMCSA indicates that these injuries are becoming more frequent. Here are some common examples:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Head injuries can range from concussions to more severe brain trauma, impacting cognitive and motor functions.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering a person’s life.
- Broken bones: Fractures are common in high-impact collisions and may require extensive recovery time.
- Severed limbs: Some accidents result in the loss of a limb, requiring amputation and long-term rehabilitation.
- Burns or lacerations: Severe cuts or burns can cause permanent scarring and require extensive medical treatment.
- Disfigurement or scarring: Injuries may leave visible marks that affect both appearance and emotional well-being.
- Fatal injuries: In the most tragic cases, truck accidents can result in loss of life.
How a Truck Accident Can Affect Your Life
The impact of a truck accident extends far beyond the initial incident, often bringing unexpected challenges:
- Job loss or reduced income: Severe injuries may make returning to work difficult or impossible.
- Loss of independence: Injuries may require you to rely on others for daily activities and transportation.
- Emotional distress: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after a traumatic accident.
- Changes to your home or vehicle: Modifications may be needed to accommodate mobility issues or permanent disabilities.
- Loss of companionship: The death of a loved one can lead to a profound sense of grief and loss.
Our West Palm Beach 18-wheeler accident attorneys are here to guide you through these difficult times and help you seek the support you need.
No matter what time of day it is, you can contact The Schiller Kessler Group to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident
After an accident with a semi-truck, there are some important steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights. Speaking with a West Palm Beach 18-wheeler truck accident attorney can provide guidance on what to do next.
Here are some actions to consider right away:
- Get medical attention: Seek medical care immediately, even if you don’t feel hurt, to identify any hidden injuries.
- Consult with an attorney: Speak with a lawyer before making statements or discussing the incident publicly.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer promptly.
- Send a spoliation letter: Request that all potential evidence be preserved by those who may be at fault.
- File a lawsuit if necessary: Legal action may be needed to gather important evidence.
- Avoid speaking with other parties: Do not talk with representatives from the trucking company or their insurance without your lawyer.
- Stay off social media: Avoid posting anything related to the accident or your injuries online.
- Keep a pain journal: Document your recovery journey, including any pain and limitations you experience.
Following these steps can help you feel more prepared and supported in the days ahead.
Potential Compensation for an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Claim
Compensation for a truck accident can vary greatly depending on the specifics of your case. The severity of your injuries and the extent of your damages play a significant role in determining the amount you may receive.
Serious injuries like multiple fractures, traumatic brain injuries, herniated discs, severe burns, disfigurement, paralysis, amputation, or blindness often result in higher settlements. In the most tragic cases, a fatality can also significantly affect the compensation amount.
Since every case is different, discussing your situation with an 18-wheeler accident lawyer in West Palm Beach can help you understand the factors that may impact your claim.
Explore Your Options with The Schiller Kessler Group
Being in an accident with an 18-wheeler can have a lasting impact, and having the right legal support is imperative to understanding your options. A West Palm Beach 18-wheeler accident lawyer can offer the guidance needed to navigate the next steps in seeking justice.
The Schiller Kessler Group has successfully helped secure compensation for over 30,000 Florida injury victims, bringing our knowledge and dedication to every case we handle. Our team understands the unique challenges that come with accidents involving large trucks.
Connect with a trusted West Palm Beach 18-wheeler accident lawyer at The Schiller Kessler Group today to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in moving forward.
Injured? Call The Aggressive Attorneys Today
