Large trucks pose a serious risk on Florida roads. In 2023, more than 5,400 people died in crashes involving big trucks, with most victims in other vehicles. A commercial vehicle collision can leave you facing severe injuries and confusing rules, but there are concrete steps you can take right away.
Why a Commercial Vehicle Claim Is Different
Truck crashes usually cause life changing harm and involve multiple parties. Evidence such as driver logs, electronic data recorders and bills of lading must be preserved promptly. There may be multiple insurance policies to pursue. Federal rules limit driving time to prevent fatigue. Learn more about HOS rules.
Who Can Be Responsible?
Beyond the driver, liability can extend to the trucking company, the trailer owner, a broker, a maintenance shop or even a manufacturer. Each entity must follow safety laws and carry adequate insurance. Read the minimum insurance law.
Key Evidence to Gather
- Take photos of the vehicles, skid marks, road signs and weather conditions.
- Write down the driver’s license information, insurance details and USDOT number.
- Ask for witness names and contact details.
- Preserve your car’s event data recorder or dash cam video.
- Keep copies of police reports and medical records.
What About the Insurance Adjuster?
Truck company adjusters call quickly hoping to shift blame. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule, your recovery is reduced if you are partly at fault. If you are more than 50 percent responsible, you cannot recover damages. See how the rule works. Do not give a recorded statement until you speak with a lawyer.
Florida Rules That Affect Your Claim
PIP coverage and no fault: Florida requires every driver to carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection. PIP pays a portion of your medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash. You must see a doctor within 14 days to qualify. Learn more
Serious injury threshold: You can sue for full damages only if your injuries are permanent, result in significant scarring, cause loss of an important bodily function or lead to death. See details
Deadlines and minimum coverage: You generally have two years from the crash to file a negligence claim. Trucks must carry at least $50,000 in liability coverage if they weigh between 26,000 and 35,000 pounds; heavier trucks require higher limits.
Additional regulations: Commercial vehicles must follow Florida and federal safety rules, including drug and alcohol testing and hours of service limits. See the statute
Watch Your Health
Symptoms like concussions, internal bleeding or soft tissue injuries may appear days after the crash. See a doctor and document all treatment.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
- Call 911 and report the crash.
- Exchange information and photograph the scene.
- Seek medical care within 14 days.
- Notify your insurer, but decline recorded statements from the other side.
- Contact a truck accident lawyer to protect your rights.
Why You Need a Lawyer
An attorney can send preservation letters, hire experts, negotiate multiple insurance claims and file your lawsuit before the two year deadline. You pay nothing upfront because fees come from the recovery.
The Reyes Firm Can Help
We focus on commercial vehicle accidents across Tampa and central Florida. Our team knows how to handle trucking evidence, negotiate with insurers and litigate complex cases. Our consultations are free and we only get paid if you win. For help, call us or visit our website: Schedule a free consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right after a commercial vehicle accident?
Call 911, gather contact and insurance information, take photos and seek medical care as soon as possible.
Do I need to go to the emergency room if I feel okay?
Yes. Many serious injuries, such as concussions and internal bleeding, are not immediately apparent.
Should I take photos of the USDOT number on the truck?
Yes. The USDOT number helps identify the carrier and retrieve safety records.
How soon should I report the crash to my insurance company?
Report it promptly, but do not provide a recorded statement until you speak with an attorney.
Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was an independent contractor?
Possibly. Carriers can be liable for negligent hiring or inadequate supervision of contractors.
Who pays my medical bills while my case is pending?
Your own PIP insurance and health coverage pay initial bills; the at fault party reimburses damages later.
What is black box data and how can it help?
Event data recorders capture speed, braking and other factors that can show how the crash happened.
What if the trucking company deletes evidence?
Your lawyer can send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence and seek sanctions if evidence is destroyed.
How long does a truck accident claim take to settle?
It varies; complex cases may take months or years, especially if liability or damages are disputed.
What if both the truck driver and I are partly at fault?
You can still recover damages if you are 50 percent or less responsible; your recovery is reduced by your share of fault.
What injuries are common in commercial vehicle crashes?
Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, internal injuries and severe soft tissue damage are common.
Can I recover money for future medical care?
Yes. Damages can include ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, adaptive equipment and home modifications.
How is a truck accident settlement calculated?
Settlements consider medical bills, lost wages, future care, pain and suffering, property damage and insurance coverage limits.
What if I had a pre existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if the crash aggravated your condition, though damages may be limited to the worsening of the injury.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurer offers a settlement?
It’s wise to consult an attorney; early offers often undervalue the claim and may not cover future costs.
