Semi trucks are a common sight throughout Ocala, Florida. These trucks carry millions of pounds of cargo across the state every year, serving as an integral part of the economy. However, this very cargo can pose hazards to unsuspecting motorists when it falls and causes truck accidents.
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers supports victims of truck accidents. We can discuss your legal rights and options during a free consultation. Contact us today at (352) 351-3258 to speak with a caring Ocala cargo truck accident lawyer.
Why Choose Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers After a Cargo Truck Accident in Ocala, FL?
If you were injured in a truck accident involving falling or shifting cargo, you need an experienced Ocala truck accident lawyer on your side. Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers has over a century of combined personal injury and insurance experience. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
When you choose Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, you get more than just legal representation—you get a dedicated team that truly cares about your recovery. Our attorneys understand the devastating impact cargo-related truck accidents can have on your health, finances, and future.
We take the time to investigate every detail of your case, consult with top experts, and build a tailored legal strategy to maximize your compensation. With a reputation for aggressive advocacy and compassionate client service, we are ready to fight tirelessly for justice on your behalf. Contact us today for a free case review.
Common Causes of Cargo Truck Accidents
Cargo can fall off or shift during transit, creating dangerous situations where the truck can tip over or cargo drops onto the roadway.
Some of the common causes of cargo truck accidents include the following:
- Improper loading: It’s essential for safety that cargo be properly loaded so that the weight is evenly distributed and the cargo is secure on the truck. This prevents it from shifting or causing balance problems during transit. However, the trucking industry is a high-paced one, and sometimes workers cut corners to speed up the process, rather than focusing on safety. This can increase the likelihood that a truck driver loses control of the vehicle or that the cargo falls off the truck.
- Shifting loads: Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to roll over and overturn, leading to falling or spilled cargo.
- Uncovered cargo: Cargo such as logs, gravel, or construction materials might not be inside a trailer. This cargo should be covered to prevent it from flying off the truck during transport.
- Broken restraints: The materials that truck drivers and cargo loading companies use to secure the loads can break, as can coupling devices. This can happen due to defective products or improper maintenance.
An experienced truck accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the case to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Who Is Responsible for a Cargo Accident?
Various parties could be responsible for a cargo truck accident. Truck drivers, companies, and other involved parties are required to comply with federal securement rules. When they violate these rules, they can be legally liable for the damages.
Parties who could be responsible for cargo accidents could include the following:
- Truck drivers
- Truck companies
- Cargo loading companies
- Maintenance providers
- Product manufacturers
An experienced lawyer from our law firm can evaluate your case and identify all paths for recovering compensation.
Common Injuries in Cargo Accidents
Cargo truck accidents can cause serious injuries. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, hazardous materials were present on three percent of fatal large truck crashes and two percent of injury and towaway crashes. The presence of hazardous materials increases the likelihood of fires, explosions, and severe injuries.
Cargo truck accidents can result in injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions
- Spinal cord injuries, including those that cause partial or complete paralysis
- Neck and back injuries
- Arm and leg injuries
- Broken and dislocated bones
- Organ damage and internal bleeding
- Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash
Let our experienced truck accident attorneys handle your case while you focus on recovering from these or other injuries.
Damages You Can Recover After a Cargo Accident
Truck accidents can cause significant damage to your vehicle, catastrophic injuries, and an uncertain future.
An experienced attorney can carefully evaluate your case and identify all the damages you are entitled to under Florida law, which might include:
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Future lost income
- Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
- Lost support and services
- Costs to repair or replace a damaged vehicle
- Other economic losses that would not have occurred but for the accident
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
We carefully prepare our clients’ cases for maximum compensation.
How Is My Case Affected If I Contributed to the Accident?
Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule states that an accident victim cannot recover any compensation if they are more than 50 percent at fault for the accident. If they are less at fault than that, they can recover compensation, but the compensation is reduced by their degree of fault.
What Is the Deadline to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Florida?
Florida’s statute of limitations gives you only two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this strict deadline, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation in court, no matter how strong your case may be.
Contact Our Truck Accident Attorneys for Legal Representation
If you were hurt in a cargo truck accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to stand up to trucking companies and their insurers.
Call us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Ocala cargo truck accident attorney and take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future.
