Jacksonville Truck Accident Lawyers

Compassionate Gladiators for 18-Wheeler Accident Victims in Florida

Collisions involving semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and tractor-trailers are among the most catastrophic events on our roads. The sheer size and weight of these commercial vehicles mean that accidents often result in life-altering injuries, leaving victims and their families to face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burdens.

When you are up against a powerful trucking corporation and its aggressive insurance companies, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a proven advocate with the experience to level the playing field. If you suffered serious injuries in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, our team at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. is ready to fight for you. Under Florida law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim, making it critical to act quickly to protect your rights.

"Definitely 5 star rating! If I could give more stars, I would! Highly recommend!" - Sarah V.

Do not wait to get legal advice if you've been injured in a truck crash. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling (904) 295-1050 today.

The Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. Advantage: An Insider’s Perspective on Your Side

Truck accident cases are incredibly complex, involving layers of federal regulations, corporate policies, and multiple liable parties. The trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers dedicated to protecting their profits by minimizing your claim. Our firm offers a distinct strategic advantage.

Our legal team includes former insurance defense attorneys and former state prosecutors. We have firsthand knowledge of the tactics insurance companies use to deny and devalue claims. We know how prosecutors build a case from the ground up. This insider’s perspective allows us to anticipate the opposition's moves, uncover critical evidence they might try to hide, and build a more powerful, resilient case designed to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

With over 150+ years of combined legal experience and a track record that includes a $5 million verdict for a client injured in a truck accident, our Jacksonville truck accident lawyers have the expertise to hold all responsible parties accountable. We will work closely with you, developing a personalized legal strategy aimed at securing the full compensation you need to heal and move forward.

Read our Truck Accident guide

How Truck Accidents Are Different From Car Accidents

While both are serious, truck accident claims are fundamentally more complex than typical car accident cases. Understanding these differences is key to building a successful claim.

• Complex Federal Regulations: Trucking is a federally regulated industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes strict rules. A successful claim often requires proving a violation of these specific federal laws.
• Multiple Liable Parties: In a car crash, liability is often between two drivers. In a truck accident, fault can lie with the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loading company, the truck or parts manufacturer, or a maintenance provider. A thorough investigation is required to identify every party that shares responsibility.
• Unique Types of Evidence: Truck accident cases involve evidence that doesn't exist in car crashes. This includes the truck’s “black box” (Electronic Logging Device), driver logs, maintenance records, cargo manifests, and post-accident drug and alcohol test results. This evidence is crucial but can be lost or destroyed if not preserved immediately.
• Aggressive Corporate Defendants: Victims are not just dealing with an individual’s insurance policy. They are up against large, well-funded trucking and insurance corporations that have legal teams working from day one to limit their financial exposure.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Several types of negligence can lead to truck accidents. Our Jacksonville truck accident attorneys are prepared to launch a thorough investigation 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: Tight delivery schedules often lead to drivers ignoring mandatory rest breaks, impairing cognition and slowing reaction times.
• Intoxicated driving: The use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or even certain prescription medications can alter a driver's judgment, coordination, and ability to control their vehicle.
• Distracted driving: Any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as texting or using a dispatch device, is extremely dangerous when operating an 80,000-pound vehicle.
• Insufficient training: Some trucking companies cut corners on training, putting inadequately prepared drivers on the road who may lack the skills to handle challenging conditions or emergencies.
• Improperly loaded cargo: If cargo is not loaded, balanced, and secured properly, it can cause the truck to become unstable, leading to rollovers, jackknife accidents, or spills.
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance: Neglecting critical components such as brakes, tires, and steering systems to cut costs can lead to catastrophic mechanical failures.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

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 4,000 pounds, while a fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. This disparity in force means injuries are often severe and require lifelong care.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis
• Multiple Bone Fractures
• Crush Injuries & Amputations
• Internal Organ Damage
• Severe Burns & Disfigurement

When an accident results in catastrophic injuries, the financial stakes are immense. Trucking companies and their insurers fight aggressively to minimize payouts. Having an experienced truck accident lawyer who has secured multi-million dollar results is essential for recovering the full and fair compensation you need.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Florida Truck Accident?

Determining fault in a truck accident is complex, as multiple parties could bear responsibility. Our investigation will work to identify all liable parties to maximize your recovery.

Potentially liable parties could include:

• The truck driver: For negligent actions like speeding, distracted driving, or violating HOS rules.
• The trucking company: For negligent hiring, inadequate training, or encouraging unsafe practices.
• The cargo loading company: If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the accident.
• The truck or component manufacturer: If a defective part like brakes or tires caused the crash.
• The truck’s maintenance company: If negligent maintenance led to a mechanical failure.

Federal Trucking Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and their drivers. Violations of these regulations are often a key factor in proving negligence in truck accident cases.

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: FMCSA mandates drug and alcohol testing for drivers before they are hired, and random testing during employment.
• 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.
• Safety Equipment: FMCSA requires CMVs to be equipped with specific safety equipment, such as functioning brakes, lights, and mirrors.
• 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.
• Driver Training and Safety Programs: FMCSA encourages motor carriers to implement driver training and safety programs to enhance driving skills and safety awareness.

If a trucking company fails to adhere to FMCSA regulations, it risks serious consequences. This negligence can result in hefty fines, legal liabilities, and is a critical component in establishing fault after a crash.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Jacksonville?

Knowing what to do after a truck accident can protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

1. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some serious injuries have delayed symptoms.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you are able, take photos and videos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and the truck's DOT number. Get contact information from the driver and any witnesses.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with police. Do not apologize or accept blame.
5. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters: The trucking company's insurer will contact you quickly. Do not give a recorded statement. Their goal is to limit their liability. Let an experienced attorney handle all communications.
6. Contact a Jacksonville Truck Accident Lawyer: The trucking company’s legal team starts working immediately. You should have your own. An experienced attorney can preserve critical evidence like black box data and driver logs before they are destroyed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is my truck accident case worth?

The value of a truck accident claim varies greatly and depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment (current and future), lost income, and the degree of the defendants' negligence. Our attorneys will conduct a detailed analysis to determine the full value of your damages.

Should I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company?

No. The first offer from an insurance company is almost always far less than the true value of your claim. It is a tactic used to make the case go away quickly and cheaply. You should never accept any offer without first consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney.

How long will my truck accident lawsuit take?

The timeline can range from several months to a few years. Cases with clear liability and minor injuries may settle faster, while complex cases involving catastrophic injuries and multiple defendants will likely take longer, especially if a trial is necessary. Our focus is always on achieving the best possible outcome, not the quickest one.

Can I sue the trucking company?

Yes. In many cases, the trucking company can be held liable for the driver's negligence under a legal principle known as "vicarious liability." They can also be held directly liable for their own negligence, such as failing to properly train a driver or maintain their fleet.

What should I look for in a Jacksonville truck accident lawyer?

You should look for a lawyer with extensive trial experience, a proven track record of significant results in truck accident cases, and Board Certification in Civil Trial Law, which is the highest level of specialty recognition. This ensures your attorney has the expertise to handle these complex cases effectively.

You will not owe us a dollar unless we win your truck accident case. Call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online today for a free consultation!