Involved in an Accident With a Commercial Vehicle?

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Commercial vehicle accidents often involve semis, tractor trailers, eighteen wheelers or other large trucks traveling at high speeds on interstates or highways. Personal injury claims against trucks and other interstate commercial vehicles can involve broken bones, spinal injuries and other injury claims. If you have suffered serious injuries in a commercial vehicle accident, consider speaking to our Tallahassee auto accident lawyers about your situation.

In these cases, the commercial vehicle driver is often required to have a commercial driver’s license. He or she must also have training and experience to drive such a potentially dangerous vehicle. Additionally, interstate motor vehicle carriers must comply with a vast array of regulations in training, maintenance and supervision of their drivers and trucks. Driver fatigue is a common reason for fatal car accidents. Depending on the commercial vehicle, the driver may be required to maintain certain safety checks and document logs on a daily basis.

Injured in a Commercial Vehicle Accident? Don't wait—protect your rights today. Contact us at (855) 553-3310 for a free consultation.

Florida law provides that the owner of the commercial motor vehicle is responsible for the negligence of his or her employees. This is based upon the dangerous instrumentality doctrine and respondeat superior.  The owner of a commercial vehicle or the driver’s employer may also be liable if they failed to appropriately train or supervise their employee. Additionally, if the employer knew that the driver was dangerous, then the employer may be held responsible for negligent entrustment.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires specific minimum insurance requirements for trucks that are involved in interstate deliveries.  Trucks weighing at least 10,001 pounds and transporting non hazardous materials must be insured for at least $750,000.00 and up to $5 million for trucks carrying hazardous materials.

Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving commercial vehicles can be devastating. Many of these crashes happen due to negligence or unsafe driving practices. Here are some common causes:

• Distracted Driving – Truck drivers may use their phones, eat, or adjust navigation systems while driving, leading to serious accidents.
• Driver Fatigue – Long hours on the road can make drivers drowsy, increasing the risk of crashes. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules limit driving time, but violations still occur.
• Improper Vehicle Maintenance – Failing to inspect brakes, tires, or lights can result in mechanical failures and accidents.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo – Cargo must be secured properly to prevent shifting loads, which can cause rollovers or loss of control.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving – Large trucks take longer to stop. Speeding makes it harder to react to sudden traffic changes.
• Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol or drug use impairs reaction time and decision-making, making commercial vehicle accidents more likely.

Types of Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, injuries in these crashes are often severe:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Head injuries can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis – Damage to the spine may result in partial or full paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures – High-impact crashes often lead to severe bone fractures that require surgery.
• Internal Injuries and Organ Damage – Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding and life-threatening injuries.
• Burns and Lacerations – Fires, explosions, or shattered glass can cause serious burns or deep cuts.

What to Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

If you're involved in a commercial vehicle accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident immediately and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
4. Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the accident, collect their contact details for future statements.
5. Request a Police Report – This official document can help establish fault in your claim.
6. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters – They may try to minimize your claim. Consult a lawyer before making statements.
7. Contact a Lawyer – An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Commercial Vehicle Accident? Review Your Legal Options With Us

Commercial vehicles are typically buses, SUVs, box trucks, pickups or other motor vehicles that are owned by a private company.  When a commercial vehicle causes a serious personal injury, it is important to investigate the accident scene. By doing so, you have a better chance to prove liability against the at fault driver. Since commercial vehicles are often larger and heavier, crashes involving trucks and cars generally result in severe personal injury or wrongful death.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Commercial Vehicle Accidents

What qualifies as a commercial vehicle?

• A commercial vehicle is any vehicle used for business purposes, including semi-trucks, delivery vans, buses, and company-owned cars. These vehicles are often larger and heavier than personal cars, making accidents more severe.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

• Yes. Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim after a commercial vehicle accident?

• In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

What damages can I recover after a commercial vehicle accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

How is liability determined in a commercial vehicle accident?

Liability can be complex. The responsible party may be:

• The driver (if they were negligent or reckless)
• The trucking company (if they failed to train or supervise the driver)
• A third party (such as a maintenance provider or cargo loader)

Do I need a lawyer for a commercial vehicle accident claim?

• While it’s not required, hiring a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and an attorney can protect your rights.

What if the driver was an independent contractor?

• Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the company that hired them may still be responsible. A lawyer can investigate whether the company should be held liable.

Need Legal Help After a Truck Accident? Our experienced attorneys are here for you. Contact us now at (855) 553-3310 to discuss your case.