Jacksonville Truck Accident Attorneys

Compassionate Representation for Truck Accident Victims Nationwide

Truck, semi-truck, and tractor-trailer accidents are some of the most devastating types of vehicular collisions. When a collision occurs, the consequences are often severe due to the overwhelming size and weight of these vehicles. Victims in these accidents often suffer life-altering injuries that affect their ability to work, with exorbitant medical bills compounding the financial burden.   

If you suffered serious injuries in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, our team at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. is ready to help you recover damages. These cases can be especially complex, as liability is not always as straightforward as typical car accidents. With over 150+ years of combined legal experience and millions recovered for accident victims, our Jacksonville truck accidents understand how to investigate these collisions, determine liability, and hold the responsible parties accountable. We will work closely with you to develop a personalized legal approach that aims to secure the full compensation you need to heal and move forward.

Do not wait to get legal advice if you recently sustained injuries in a crash involving a truck. We want to hear from you, so schedule a free initial consultation by contacting us online or calling (904) 295-1050 today.

Federal Trucking Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and their drivers. These regulations play a crucial role in preventing and managing truck accidents.

Here are some key FMCSA regulations related to truck accidents:

• Hours of Service (HOS): FMCSA's HOS regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can operate their vehicles to prevent fatigue. Drivers must adhere to specific limits on driving time, rest periods, and work hours. For example, the regulations generally allow drivers to operate a CMV for up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty and restrict driving to 60 hours in a 7-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period.
• Vehicle Maintenance: FMCSA requires regular maintenance and inspections of CMVs to ensure they are in safe operating condition. Drivers and carriers must perform pre-trip inspections and report any defects. Failure to maintain vehicles properly can contribute to accidents.
• Driver Qualifications: FMCSA sets standards for driver qualifications, including obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), meeting medical requirements, and maintaining a clean driving record. Ensuring that drivers are qualified and healthy helps prevent accidents caused by driver inexperience or health issues.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: FMCSA mandates drug and alcohol testing for drivers before they are hired, and random testing during employment. This regulation helps to ensure that drivers are not under the influence of substances that could impair their driving abilities.
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): ELDs are used to record a driver’s hours of service electronically. This regulation helps enforce HOS rules and provides accurate records of driving and rest periods, making it easier to track compliance and prevent fatigue-related accidents.
• Safety Equipment: FMCSA requires CMVs to be equipped with specific safety equipment, such as functioning brakes, lights, and mirrors. This equipment is crucial for the safe operation of trucks and can help prevent accidents.
• Accident Reporting: In the event of an accident involving a CMV, FMCSA requires certain accidents to be reported. This includes accidents that result in fatalities, injuries, or significant property damage. Proper reporting helps in investigating accidents and improving safety measures.
• Driver Training and Safety Programs: FMCSA encourages motor carriers to implement driver training and safety programs to enhance driving skills and safety awareness. This includes defensive driving courses and other training to reduce accident risks.

If a trucking company fails to adhere to FMCSA regulations, it risks serious consequences that can extend beyond regulatory penalties. Non-compliance can lead to increased accident rates, placing drivers, other road users, and the company itself in significant danger. This negligence can result in hefty fines, legal liabilities, and potential revocation of operating licenses.

Additionally, a company's reputation may suffer irreparable damage, affecting client trust and business relationships. Ultimately, the safety of everyone on the road is compromised, underscoring the critical importance of strict adherence to FMCSA guidelines.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Several types of negligence can lead to truck accidents. Though driver negligence is a common cause, the negligence of one or more additional parties can in some cases play a significant role. Determining the source of negligence often requires careful investigation, and our Jacksonville truck accident attorneys are prepared to ascertain what caused your accident and who can be held responsible for your injuries and losses.

Many Florida truck accidents are caused by:

• Fatigued driving: Commercial truck drivers often face tight delivery schedules and long-distance routes that require them to be on the road for extended periods. This can lead to excessive fatigue, which impairs cognition, slows reaction time, and can even result in “microsleep” episodes where the driver momentarily loses consciousness. When managing such a large vehicle, even a few seconds of drowsiness can lead to catastrophic consequences. Truck drivers must follow rules that limit how long they can drive without mandatory rest breaks. These rules are sometimes ignored to meet quotas, however, putting everyone on the road at risk.
• Intoxicated driving: Consuming alcohol or drugs impairs a driver's ability to operate their vehicle safely. These substances can alter the driver's judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making a collision far more likely. For truck drivers, who are already managing large, heavy vehicles that require more skill to control, these effects can be even more dangerous. It is important to note that intoxication is not limited to illegal drugs or alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs can also impair driving abilities, especially if abused or combined with alcohol. 
• Distracted driving: Any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as texting or using the phone, is extremely dangerous. Trucks require longer distances to stop or adjust their course due to their mass, so a momentary lapse in concentration can prevent drivers from recognizing and responding to changes in the driving environment, such as unexpected obstacles or changes in traffic.
• Insufficient training. Commercial trucks are complex machines that require a unique skill set to operate safely. Unfortunately, some trucking companies may skimp on thorough training programs in an effort to save time and money and ultimately put inadequately trained drivers behind the wheel. As a result, these drivers may lack the necessary skills to handle challenging road conditions, maneuver the vehicle safely, or react properly in emergency situations.
• Improperly loaded cargo: Commercial trucks are designed to carry heavy loads, but if this cargo is not loaded properly, it can lead to dangerous situations on the road. If the weight of the cargo is not evenly distributed, it can cause the truck to become unstable, especially when turning or braking. This imbalance can lead to the truck flipping over or veering off the road. A truck’s cargo may even spill onto the roadway, posing a significant risk to other motorists.
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance: Trucks require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure their safe operation. These vehicles are subject to significant wear and tear due to their long hours on the road and the heavy loads they carry. Critical components such as brakes, tires, steering systems, and lights must be kept in optimal condition to prevent malfunctions. Despite stringent laws requiring regular maintenance and inspections, some trucking companies or drivers may neglect these crucial tasks in an attempt to cut costs or save time, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.

Regardless of what the root cause of a commercial truck accident, you will have to speak with an attorney who has experience dealing with these types of cases. Truck accidents are serious, and chances are high that a victim will require extensive medical care to recover from their injuries.

Truck Accident Statistics: The Reality of Commercial Vehicle Crashes

Truck accidents are a serious public safety concern across the U.S. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Safety Council (NSC):

• In 2022, nearly 5,100 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes. 
• Large trucks account for nearly 10% of all fatal vehicle crashes, despite making up a much smaller percentage of traffic.
• Most deadly truck crashes occur on highways and major roads, often involving passenger vehicles in rear-end collisions, underride accidents, and jackknife crashes.
• Speeding, driver fatigue, and distracted driving are leading causes of truck accidents, with studies showing that long hours and pressure to meet delivery deadlines increase the likelihood of collisions.

Florida consistently ranks among the top states for truck accidents, and Jacksonville and Duval County are no exception. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV):

• In 2022, large trucks accounted for 7% of all fatal crashes in Florida, as well as thousands of injuries and deaths.
• Across Florida, there were more than 390,000 roadway accidents in 2017. Of these accidents, more than 46,000 involved commercial vehicles.
• Interstates and highways in Jacksonville, including I-95, I-295, and U.S. Route 1, are high-risk areas for truck crashes due to high volumes of commercial vehicle traffic.
• Jacksonville consistently sees thousands of auto accidents per year, with truck-involved crashes contributing to significant injuries, traffic delays, and fatalities.

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we have seen firsthand how devastating truck accidents can be for victims and their families. We routinely represent those injured in truck crashes and know just how common – and preventable – these collisions are. Our firm has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to take on powerful trucking companies and insurers, and help clients fight for the compensation they deserve.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Truck accidents differ from standard car crashes in severity, impact, and legal complexity. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions often result in catastrophic injuries that significantly alter victims’ lives. 

The average passenger vehicle weighs around 3,000 to 4,000 pounds, while a fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. The difference in size and force means that even a moderate-speed collision can cause devastating harm to those inside smaller vehicles. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and in some cases, lifelong care. Some of the most severe and life-altering injuries seen in truck accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – High-impact truck crashes frequently cause concussions, skull fractures, and brain damage that can affect cognition, memory, and motor function.
• Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis – Damage to the spinal cord may result in permanent paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), requiring lifelong medical care.
• Multiple Bone Fractures – The extreme force of a truck collision can shatter bones, often requiring surgery, pins, plates, and extensive rehabilitation.
• Crush Injuries & Amputations – The weight of a truck can trap victims inside vehicles, leading to severe crush injuries or even loss of limbs.
• Internal Organ Damage & Internal Bleeding – Blunt force trauma from a truck accident can cause life-threatening internal injuries that require emergency surgery.
• Severe Burns & Disfigurement – Fuel-fed fires are common in truck accidents, resulting in third-degree burns, scarring, and long-term disfigurement.

When an accident results in catastrophic injuries, the financial stakes are much higher. Medical bills, lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering can add up to millions of dollars in damages—which is why trucking companies and their insurers fight aggressively to minimize payouts. Insurance companies often try to undervalue serious injury claims by arguing that victims had preexisting conditions or exaggerating the extent of recovery. They may also shift blame onto the injured party, claiming they failed to avoid the accident or were partially at fault. Without legal representation, many victims accept settlements that don’t come close to covering their future medical expenses or lost earning capacity.

For these reasons, in addition to the challenges of litigating against corporate defendants and powerful insurers, having an experienced truck accident lawyer is essential for securing full and fair compensation. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we are committed to helping victims recover the full compensation they deserve following all types of injuries and losses. 

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Florida Truck Accident?

In any given case, one or multiple parties could bear responsibility for a truck accident. A thorough investigation is usually required to determine the exact cause of the accident and identify all parties who may be held liable. This is just one of the reasons why having experienced truck accident injury lawyers on your side is so important. We will work to identify all liable parties to maximize what you recover.

Any of the following parties could be potentially liable for a Florida truck accident:

• The truck driver: The driver can be held liable if they were driving recklessly or negligently at the time of the collision. Again, examples of negligent behavior include speeding, driving under the influence, or driving while fatigued.  
• The trucking company: The company that employs the driver can sometimes be held liable for a truck accident, especially if they were negligent in their hiring practices, failed to properly train their drivers, or encouraged unsafe practices, such as disregarding hours-of-service regulations. 
• The cargo loading company: If improper loading of cargo contributed to the accident, the company responsible for loading the truck may be held liable. This could include situations where the cargo was overloaded, improperly balanced, or not adequately secured.
• The truck or truck component manufacturer: If a defect in the truck or one of its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or the faulty part may be held liable. 
• The truck’s maintenance company: If the truck accident was caused by a failure to properly maintain the truck, the party responsible for the truck's maintenance can be held liable. This could be an external company or the trucking company itself depending on who was responsible for the maintenance.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Florida?

Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a truck accident can help protect your rights, preserve crucial evidence, and strengthen your claim for compensation. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide on what to do after a truck accident in Florida.

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

The first step after a truck accident is to call 911 and report the crash to law enforcement. In Florida, you are legally required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500—which is almost always the case in a truck crash.

When the police arrive, they will:

• Secure the scene and assist injured parties.
• Document the crash in an official police report.
• Note potential causes of the accident, such as driver negligence or road hazards.
• Identify and record all involved parties and witnesses.

The police report will be a critical piece of evidence when proving liability in your truck accident case. If law enforcement does not arrive for any reason, you can file an accident report with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) department.

2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel “fine” after the accident, always seek medical attention as soon as possible. Truck accidents generate significant force, leading to injuries that may not be immediately noticeable, such as:

• Internal bleeding
• Spinal cord injuries
• Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Whiplash and soft tissue damage
• Broken bones or fractures that worsen over time

Florida has a 14-day rule for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, meaning you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to qualify for insurance benefits. However, waiting too long to see a doctor can weaken your claim, as insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not serious or unrelated to the accident.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Are Able)

Truck accident claims often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers. To build a strong case, document as much as possible at the scene:

• Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and any other relevant details.
• Obtain the truck driver's information, including their name, commercial driver’s license (CDL) number, employer name, and insurance details.
• Write down the truck's DOT (Department of Transportation) number, typically found on the driver’s door or trailer.
• Get witness contact information, as their testimony could help establish fault.
• Note any potential hazards such as bad weather, poor lighting, or missing road signs.

This evidence can be crucial when proving liability and determining whether the truck driver or trucking company violated federal safety regulations.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize

After an accident, never apologize or admit fault, even if you feel partially responsible. Florida follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that if you are partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced proportionally.

Insurance adjusters and trucking company representatives may twist your words to argue that you contributed to the accident, even if the truck driver was primarily responsible. Stick to the facts when speaking to the police or other parties.

5. Avoid Speaking with the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster

Soon after the accident, you may receive a call from the trucking company’s insurance adjuster, asking for a statement about the crash. Do not speak to them without legal representation.

Insurance companies often:

• Pressure victims into accepting lowball settlements before they know the full extent of their injuries.
• Trick victims into making statements that minimize their injuries or shift blame.
• Request access to medical records to find pre-existing conditions that they can use to dispute your claim.

It’s always best to let an experienced truck accident attorney handle communications with insurers to protect your claim.

6. Request a Copy of the Police Report

The police report contains valuable information that can support your case. You can request a copy of the report from:

• The local police department (if the accident occurred within city limits).
• The Florida Highway Patrol (if the accident occurred on a highway or major road).
• The FLHSMV online crash portal.

This report may contain important details such as witness statements, accident diagrams, and any citations issued to the truck driver.

7. Preserve All Medical Records and Expenses

To recover full compensation, you will need to document all injury-related costs, including:

• Emergency room visits and hospital stays
• Surgeries, treatments, and physical therapy
• Prescriptions and medical equipment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Ongoing rehabilitation or in-home care

Keep copies of medical bills, doctor’s notes, and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries. These can be useful in helping your attorney illustrate the full scope of your damages.

9. Contact a Florida Truck Accident Lawyer as Soon as Possible

Truck accident claims are far more complex than standard car accident cases due to the federal trucking regulations, multiple liable parties, and large insurance policies involved. The trucking company will have legal teams working to minimize their liability, so having an experienced truck accident attorney on your side is critical.

An attorney can:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly and determine all liable parties.
• Preserve black box data, maintenance records, and driver logs before they are lost or destroyed.
• Negotiate aggressively with trucking companies and insurers to secure maximum compensation.
• Take your case to trial if necessary to fight for justice.

Florida’s statute of limitations for truck accident claims is two years from the date of the accident, but evidence can disappear quickly. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

You will not owe us a dollar unless we win your truck accident case, so call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online today!