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FAQ Guide To Florida Truck Accidents
If you or someone you care about has been in a truck accident in Florida, it’s important to understand your rights under state law. Truck accidents are different from regular car crashes in several ways, and the legal process can involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and insurance providers.
At our firm, we’ve represented many families who have been affected by serious collisions. Below are some of the most common legal questions we hear. If you need additional information, our Tampa, FL truck accident lawyer is available to talk through anything you need.
Who Can Be Held Responsible After A Truck Accident In Florida?
In a truck accident case, more than one party can be legally responsible. In addition to the truck driver, the trucking company, a maintenance provider, or even the truck’s manufacturer could be held liable.
Florida law allows you to pursue compensation from any party whose actions contributed to the crash. It’s important to gather evidence early—such as the police report, driver logs, and witness statements—to help identify everyone who may be at fault.
What Is The Deadline To File A Truck Accident Lawsuit In Florida?
Florida law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time limit is called the statute of limitations.
If you miss this deadline, you likely lose the right to seek compensation. However, there are situations that may affect the deadline, such as accidents involving government-owned vehicles or wrongful death claims. It’s best to act as soon as you can so your legal options remain open.
Does Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Apply To Truck Accidents?
Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents, which means drivers usually turn to their own insurance for injury coverage.
However, because truck accidents often involve serious injuries, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage may not be enough. If your injuries meet the legal threshold for severity, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver or company for additional damages, including pain and suffering. This is common in truck-related cases due to the size and impact of commercial vehicles.
What If I Was Partly Responsible For The Crash?
Florida follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault—as long as you weren’t more than 50% responsible.
Your recovery amount will be reduced based on your share of the blame. So, if you were found to be 30% at fault, your total compensation would be reduced by that amount. It’s important to avoid making statements that could be seen as admitting fault before all the facts are reviewed.
Are Truck Drivers Required To Follow Different Laws Than Other Drivers?
Yes. Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to both state and federal regulations. These laws cover things like how many hours a driver can be on the road, vehicle maintenance standards, and cargo loading procedures.
When these rules are broken and someone gets hurt, that violation can be used to support a legal claim. Gathering evidence of safety violations or logbook records is often a key part of building a strong case.
Contact Our Firm For More Information
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident—or if someone in your family has—there are steps you can take to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we know how Florida law applies to truck wrecks and how to build a claim that reflects your losses. Don’t wait to get the answers you need. Reach out to our friendly and experienced team to discuss your next steps.