Side-impact truck accidents in Lake County often result in serious injury. When semis, 18-wheelers, or tractor-trailers collide with passenger cars, trucks, or SUVs, the truck’s higher profile can strike at the top of the vehicle frame, providing less protection to the occupants. The weight differential also increases the risk of a severe injury. If you or someone you know is involved in a truck accident, contact an experienced truck accident attorney for assistance.
Isn’t Florida a No-Fault State?
Yes, Florida is a no-fault state that requires accident victims to file claims with their insurance carrier first. However, the law does not prohibit injured parties from filing a personal injury claim if the accident resulted from negligence.
If you were involved in a Lake County truck accident t-bone crash caused by another driver’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue compensation beyond your no-fault coverage. Serious injuries often exceed the limits of personal injury protection (PIP), making a personal injury claim a crucial step in recovering full damages.
What Should You Do After a Side-Impact Accident?
The priority is ensuring that the injured parties in Lake County receive medical attention after a side-impact truck collision. Call 911 or local law enforcement to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if there are no apparent injuries, accident victims should seek medical attention to ensure potential injuries are addressed immediately.
File a Report
Anyone involved in an accident that causes more than $500 in property damage or results in injuries must file an accident report within 10 days with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If law enforcement arrives at the scene, they will file an accident report. Insurance companies will require a copy of the report before processing claims.
Document the Scene
Using your phone, take photographs or videos of the accident scene. The visual evidence should show vehicle damage, skid marks, if any, road conditions, and traffic signs. If bystanders took pictures or videos of the accident, ask for copies. Gather contact information from witnesses as well as truck drivers and passengers. Surveillance footage may be available depending on where the accident occurred.
A Lake County truck accident attorney can use this visual and witness evidence to build a strong case on your behalf after a side-impact crash. Photos, videos, and surveillance footage can help establish fault by showing the impact point, road conditions, and any potential traffic violations. Additionally, witness statements can provide crucial third-party accounts of how the truck accident occurred, further supporting your claim for compensation.
Retain Medical Records
Medical records document injuries from initial diagnosis to long-term prognosis. They contain test results and discuss treatment plans. They document hospital stays, emergency services, and doctor visits. The records are crucial information in a personal injury lawsuit.
Is There a Statute of Limitations?
Those injured in t-bone truck accidents in Lake County and across the state occurring before March 24, 2023, have four years to file a claim. Those involved in accidents after the date have two years to initiate legal action.
What Compensation is Available?
Anyone in Lake County injured in a side-impact truck accident is entitled to compensation if the injuries were caused by someone’s negligence. Accident victims may receive economic and non-economic damages, which may include:
Economic
Economic damages compensate accident victims for financial losses. They usually include medical and out-of-pocket costs, such as in-home care or transportation. If the injuries prevent them from working, victims may recover lost wages. Compensation may also cover current and future financial losses if the injuries impact long-term health and financial stability.
Non-economic
Non-economic damages compensate for losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. In particularly severe cases, courts may award punitive damages.
Contact a Lake County Attorney about Your Side-impact Truck Accident Case
Side-impact truck accidents in Lake County can quickly become complex. Negligent parties can go beyond the truck company and its drivers. They may include third-party maintenance providers or companies loading and unloading cargo. Experienced attorneys can help identify all responsible parties and help access black box data to gather evidence.
Personal injury law firms can help develop a legal strategy and advocate for the compensation you deserve. Contact the Largey Law Firm to schedule an appointment.
