Fort Lauderdale Truck Accidents

Nationwide Assistance for Victims of Catastrophic Truck Accidents

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a vital hub in South Florida’s economy, is intersected by key highways such as I-95, I-595, and U.S. Route 1. These roadways are critical for commercial transportation but also witness a significant number of truck accidents each year. Heavy traffic, a high volume of semi-trucks, and frequent road construction create conditions ripe for serious collisions, often resulting in devastating injuries and property damage.

Truck accidents are not limited to Fort Lauderdale; neighboring cities such as Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Boca Raton, Coral Springs, and Pompano Beach also face heightened risks due to their proximity to these major highways. Additionally, Fort Lauderdale’s role as a port city with its connections to Port Everglades further amplifies the number of trucks on local roads, increasing the potential for accidents.

The Willis Law Firm has more than 40 years of experience handling catastrophic injury cases resulting from truck accidents. David P. Willis, a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1988, is well-versed in complex truck accident litigation. While licensed in Texas and New York, Willis can associate with local Florida attorneys as co-counsel to ensure compliance with state-specific laws and provide tailored representation for victims in Fort Lauderdale.

The Risks of Truck Accidents in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s extensive transportation network includes major routes like I-75 and State Road 84, which see substantial truck traffic. These roadways frequently become sites of severe accidents due to driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck collisions. Fatigue often results from violations of Hours of Service (HOS) regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These violations impair a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and respond quickly to road conditions.

Distracted driving is another pervasive issue, with truck drivers often using mobile devices, adjusting navigation systems, or communicating with dispatch while behind the wheel. These distractions are particularly hazardous in Fort Lauderdale, where quick responses are often required in congested or high-speed traffic.

Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, are also significant contributors to truck accidents. Many trucking companies fail to adhere to mandatory inspection and maintenance protocols, leading to preventable crashes. Additionally, unsecured or improperly loaded cargo can shift during transport, causing rollovers or jackknife incidents that endanger surrounding motorists.

As Fort Lauderdale’s roads share many of the same risks seen in other busy cities like Houston, truck accidents here are frequently catastrophic. These risks underscore the importance of experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale experiences various types of truck accidents, each with devastating consequences for victims. Rear-end collisions are particularly prevalent on high-traffic roads like U.S. Route 1, where heavy congestion and frequent stops increase the likelihood of crashes.

Rollover accidents often occur on highways such as I-95 when sharp curves, high speeds, or unbalanced loads cause trucks to tip over. These incidents not only block traffic but also pose risks of multi-vehicle pileups. Jackknife truck accidents are another common occurrence, where a truck’s trailer swings uncontrollably, forming a “V” shape with the cab. These accidents can block multiple lanes and result in chain-reaction crashes involving numerous vehicles. Underride collisions, among the most fatal, occur when smaller vehicles become trapped beneath a truck. Despite federal requirements for underride guards, poor maintenance or faulty installations often render them ineffective, leaving occupants of smaller vehicles vulnerable to severe injuries or death.

Determining Liability in Fort Lauderdale Truck Accidents

Determining liability in truck accident cases is often complex, involving multiple parties. The truck driver may be held accountable for negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. However, the trucking company often shares responsibility for hiring practices, failure to enforce safety standards, or insufficient vehicle maintenance.

Cargo loaders can also be liable when improperly secured or overloaded cargo contributes to a crash. Additionally, manufacturers of defective truck components, such as faulty brakes or underride guards, may share liability for accidents caused by mechanical failures.

Florida’s comparative negligence laws allow victims to pursue compensation from all responsible parties, with fault assigned proportionally based on each entity’s role in the accident. This legal framework ensures that all avenues for recovery are explored, providing victims the best opportunity for full compensation.

Preserving Evidence After a Truck Accident

Securing evidence is crucial to building a strong case in truck accident litigation. Black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records provide critical insights into the causes of an accident. Black box data reveals details such as speed, braking patterns, and compliance with HOS regulations, while driver logs often uncover patterns of fatigue or other violations.

Maintenance records may highlight neglect by the trucking company, and witness statements offer additional context. To prevent evidence from being altered or destroyed, it may be necessary to file a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), compelling the trucking company to preserve all relevant documentation. Acting quickly to secure this evidence is vital to a successful legal claim.

Compensation for Truck Accident Victims

Victims of truck accidents in Fort Lauderdale face numerous challenges, including mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Compensation seeks to address these difficulties by covering immediate and future medical expenses, diminished earning capacity, and property damage.

Victims may also pursue damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages to deter future misconduct. The psychological impact of a truck accident often includes post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, further underscoring the need for comprehensive compensation.

Why Choose the Willis Law Firm?

Truck accident litigation requires a nuanced understanding of complex legal and procedural issues. David P. Willis brings over 40 years of experience in handling catastrophic injury cases, earning a reputation for effective advocacy and favorable outcomes. As a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer and a former attorney for the Supreme Court of Texas (1983-1984), Willis has the expertise and resources to confront large corporations and insurance companies.

While licensed in Texas and New York, Willis can associate with local Florida attorneys as co-counsel to ensure compliance with state-specific laws while providing top-tier legal representation. The Willis Law Firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.

Contact Us for Legal Help After a Truck Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Willis Law Firm is here to help. Call 1-888-LAW-2040 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Let us assist you in securing the justice and compensation you deserve.