West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer

Home | West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer

West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer

Were you recently injured in a truck accident in West Palm Beach, FL? An experienced Shiner Law Group experienced West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer is ready to help fight for your legal rights and get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (561) 777-7700 to speak with an attorney for a 100% free consultation.

You may be entitled to seek compensation for medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and more. Contact our West Palm Beach, FL law offices to discuss the legal options that might be available to you following your truck accident. The next steps are very important. Let Shiner Law Group help you with your truck accident case today.

The next steps are very important. Let Shiner Law Group help you with your truck accident case today.

Table Of Contents

Were You Injured in a Truck Accident in West Palm Beach?

Whether around town or on the highway, most drivers have to periodically contend with big trucks out on the road.

Those big trucks help move vital goods around the country, ensuring that stores stay stocked and people have the tools they need to accomplish their daily tasks. Unfortunately, they can also pose a substantial hazard to other drivers on the road.

Did you suffer serious injuries in a truck accident due to the negligence of the truck driver in West Palm Beach? The West Palm Beach truck accident lawyers at Shiner Law Group can help. Contact us today to learn more about your right to compensation.

Comprehensive Guide to Truck Accident Claims in West Palm Beach by Shiner Law Group

At Shiner Law Group, we understand the complexities and nuances of truck accident claims in West Palm Beach. Our in-depth approach to each case ensures that every client receives thorough and detailed legal representation, tailored to the unique circumstances of their truck accident.

Understanding the Intricacies of Truck Accident Cases

Truck accidents are significantly different from typical car accidents, not just in terms of the severity of injuries and damages but also in the legal complexities involved. Our team delves deep into the specifics of each case, examining factors such as trucking industry regulations, driver negligence, vehicle maintenance standards, and the impact of cargo load on the accident. This comprehensive analysis helps us build a strong foundation for each claim.

Detailed Assessment of Damages and Injuries

In truck accident cases, the extent of damages and injuries can be extensive. We meticulously evaluate all aspects of our clients’ damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Our detailed approach ensures that no aspect of the claim is overlooked, maximizing the potential compensation for our clients.

Navigating the Legal Landscape with Precision

The legal landscape of truck accidents involves multiple layers, including state and federal regulations, insurance policies, and liability issues. Our expertise in this area allows us to navigate these complexities with precision. We provide our clients with a detailed understanding of their legal rights and the strategies we will employ to advocate for them effectively.

Case Studies: Lessons from West Palm Beach Truck Accidents

Drawing from our extensive experience, we share case studies of truck accidents in West Palm Beach, highlighting key lessons and strategies that led to successful outcomes. These case studies not only demonstrate our expertise but also provide clients with a clearer understanding of the legal process and what to expect in their cases.

At Shiner Law Group, we are committed to providing our clients with the most comprehensive and detailed legal representation in West Palm Beach truck accident cases. Our depth of knowledge and attention to detail make us the go-to firm for anyone seeking justice and fair compensation after a truck accident.

West Palm Beach Truck Accident Attorney

The Aftermath of Serious Truck Accidents: Living with the Injuries

Many truck accident victims sustain severe injuries that can have a permanent impact on many areas of their lives. Due to the extreme force often present in a truck accident, victims can suffer a catastrophic injury in the blink of an eye, leaving them unable to work, struggling with serious medical bills, and often unsure about what to do next.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Typically, traumatic brain injury occurs from a violent blow or extreme force to the head. In a truck accident, that could mean the head bouncing off the steering wheel or the back of the seat. Sometimes, the force of the accident alone can send the brain into the wall of the skull, which can result in traumatic brain injury.

Victims with traumatic brain injury may have immense struggles ahead as they manage symptoms that can impact them physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Traumatic brain injury can result in:

  • Trouble with focus and concentration
  • Difficulty with short-term memory
  • Gaps in long-term memory
  • Trouble with emotional regulation, including mood swings
  • Extreme emotional reaction
  • Headaches
  • Vertigo
  • Nausea
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Tunnel vision

Often, victims with traumatic brain injury struggle to return to work, since they may lack the mental capacity needed to focus on the tasks at hand until the traumatic brain injury starts to resolve.

Some victims may also struggle to concentrate on their preferred leisure activities, including engaging in normal activities with friends and loved ones. They may even suffer from personality changes that can make it difficult for them to connect normally in their relationships.

Back and Neck Injuries

Each year, an estimated 500 cases of quadriplegia, or paralysis of all four limbs, occur in car accidents. Many more victims suffer injuries lower on the spinal cord, which can reduce mobility or lead to a full loss of function below the site of the injury.

Not only do many victims suffer spinal cord injuries that could leave them permanently wheelchair-bound each year, but victims may also suffer severe back and neck injuries in truck accidents, including bulging or herniated discs, whiplash, or muscle damage

Amputation

Amputation can occur from either laceration during the truck accident itself, which may remove the limb from the body entirely, or because of crushing damage caused during the accident, which can make it impossible for doctors to repair the damaged limb enough to allow the victim normal function and movement.

Sometimes, that crushing damage can interfere with blood flow to the limb, resulting in dead tissue that requires amputation well after the initial accident.

Burns

Not only can truck accidents lead to serious burns if they result in enough damage to cause the car to catch on fire, they may result in other types of burns, as well. Dragging across the pavement—which may occur if the victim gets thrown from the car—may result in friction burns, while exposure to toxic chemicals carried by tanker trucks may result in chemical burns for the victim.

Broken Bones

Broken bones can cause immense trauma and pain for the victim—especially if, as in the case of many truck accidents, the victim suffers multiple broken bones in the accident. Some broken bones require surgery to set.

The victim may also need to go through long-term physical therapy to restore function in the damaged limb, which can lead to significant additional costs.

Your Guide to Compensation Following a Truck Accident

How much compensation do you really deserve after a truck accident? Who pays for the expenses you have from truck accident injuries? Will the truck driver’s insurance company pay for the treatment you need? Take a look at these basics of compensation following serious truck accident injuries.

Claiming Compensation Following a Truck Accident: General Guidelines

Truck drivers typically carry high-value insurance policies that can help provide much-needed compensation following an accident with one of their drivers. The compensation you could recover, however, may depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of your injuries.

Most victims can include the same general elements in their personal injury claims; however, the compensation one victim can recover will not necessarily indicate the compensation another victim with similar injuries will recover after a serious truck accident.

Coverage for medical costs. Your truck accident injuries may leave you with immense medical costs, especially if you have injuries that limit you long-term or require ongoing treatment. Make sure you keep track of all medical bills related to your accident. Also, note that you may receive more than one bill for the same treatment or procedure, especially in the case of surgery or hospitalization.

Talk to a personal injury attorney about what your medical bills look like and how to help ensure that you have included all of them as part of your personal injury claim.

  • Emergency medical costs, including the cost of treatment in the emergency room and ambulance transport.
  • Hospitalization costs.
  • The cost of surgeries and procedures.
  • The cost of durable medical equipment needed to aid in independence and functionality following your accident.
  • Staying in a long-term care facility.
  • Utilizing in-home care options.
  • Physical, occupational, and psychological therapy following your accident.

In some cases, you may also seek compensation for modifications you must make to your home to maintain your independence. For example, if you have to widen your doorways, add a wheelchair ramp, or modify your kitchen or bathroom to make it more accessible, you may have the right to include many of those costs as part of your personal injury claim.

Compensation for the time you lose at work. Following your accident, you may end up missing a lot of time at work. Sometimes, your injuries may simply prohibit you from taking care of your usual work tasks: for example, a broken leg could make it very difficult to work in a factory or warehouse.

Other times, your employer may encourage you to make a full recovery before you return to work due to liability concerns or worries over decreased performance in the workplace.

While some employers may work with you to get you back to work sooner, you may still lose time due to ongoing procedures, appointments, therapies, or the inability to work your usual hours.

All those lost hours at work can add up during a time when you need the money more than ever. Fortunately, you can include lost wages as a vital part of your personal injury claim.

Compensation for pain and suffering. Truck accident injuries can cause a great deal of pain and suffering, especially if you have injuries that will continue to impact your life long-term after the accident.

Not only do you have the physical pain of the accident to deal with, but you may also struggle with immense emotional anguish as you struggle with many of the new limitations in your life. As part of your personal injury claim, you could include compensation for the pain and suffering you faced.

Who Bears Liability in a Truck Accident?

Following a truck accident, your attorney will work with you to identify any party that may bear liability for your injuries. Ultimately, the truck driver can bear liability for whatever actions they take behind the wheel, whether they choose to drive unsafely or drive for too many hours beyond the legal number of hours they can spend behind the wheel.

However, other parties may also share liability for truck accident injuries, including the trucking company. Trucking companies must have policies in place to protect their drivers and others on the road, including limiting the number of hours the driver can spend on the road and providing a safe vehicle.

Some trucking companies, however, may become negligent or greedy. They may try to convince their drivers to exceed the federally restricted number of hours they can spend behind the wheel each day or push them to engage in dangerous behaviors such as speeding or driving in unsafe conditions, to meet tight deadlines, or to adhere to other needs—often needs of the company rather than needs of the individual.

In addition, trucks require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. If the trucking company fails to conduct needed maintenance on the vehicle or the mechanic fails to repair the vehicle properly, that may extend liability for the accident to those entities.

At Shiner Law Group, we work to identify all parties that may share liability in our clients’ truck accidents, which may increase the compensation they can ultimately receive for those injuries.

FAQ: Common Questions Answered by West Palm Beach Truck Accident Experts

Do you have serious questions about the compensation you deserve following a serious truck accident? Shiner Law Group can help answer questions about your legal rights and the personal injury claim process following a serious truck accident. Contact us to learn more. In the meantime, check out the FAQ below for answers to more general questions we often receive from victims after a truck accident.

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

  1. Prioritize Safety: Your first priority should be safety. If you are able to move and it’s safe to do so, get yourself and any passengers to a secure location away from traffic. Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  2. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to be cautious as some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
  3. Call Emergency Services: Dial 911. Reporting the accident to the police is crucial, and if there are any injuries, immediate medical attention is necessary. The police will document the scene and create an official accident report, which can be vital for insurance and legal purposes.
  4. Document the Scene: If it’s safe and you are able, take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks. This visual evidence can be invaluable for insurance claims or legal action.
  5. Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other involved parties. Be sure to get the truck driver’s license number, truck registration details, and the name and contact information of their employer.
  6. Look for Witnesses: If there are any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. Witness statements can provide an objective perspective of the accident, which can be helpful in insurance claims or legal proceedings.
  7. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record will be important if you later decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
  8. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with the basic details, but be cautious about making any definitive statements or accepting blame until you have consulted with a lawyer.
  9. Consult with a Truck Accident Lawyer: Truck accident cases can be complex due to the involvement of commercial vehicles and potential corporate liability. Contacting a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents, like Shiner Law Group, can provide you with legal guidance and help protect your rights.
  10. Follow Up: Keep track of any medical treatments and expenses related to the accident. Also, keep a record of any other related costs or losses, such as missed work days or repair costs for your vehicle.

Remember, the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking these steps can help ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in West Palm Beach?

In West Palm Beach, Florida, the timeframe for filing a truck accident claim is governed by the state’s statute of limitations. This law sets the deadline by which you must file a lawsuit in the civil court system following an accident. Understanding this timeframe is crucial as failing to file within this period typically results in losing your right to seek legal recourse for damages.

Personal Injury Claims: For personal injury claims in Florida, including those arising from truck accidents, the statute of limitations is generally four years from the date of the accident. This means you have four years to initiate legal proceedings against the party or parties responsible for the accident.

Property Damage Claims: If your claim involves property damage, such as damage to your vehicle, Florida law also provides a four-year statute of limitations. This period starts from the date of the accident.

Wrongful Death Claims: In cases where a truck accident results in a fatality, the surviving family members or representatives of the deceased’s estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Florida is generally two years from the date of the deceased person’s death.

Exceptions to the Rule: There are certain circumstances where the statute of limitations may be extended. For instance, if the victim is a minor or if the defendant leaves the state for a period, the time to file may be extended. However, these exceptions are specific and limited, so it’s important to consult with a legal professional to understand if any apply to your case.

Importance of Timely Action: Even though the statute of limitations provides a window of several years, it’s advisable to begin the legal process as soon as possible. Gathering evidence, obtaining witness statements, and building a strong case can be more effective when done promptly after the accident.

Consult with a Truck Accident Lawyer: Given the complexities of truck accident cases and the variation in legal deadlines based on the specifics of your case, consulting with a truck accident lawyer experienced in West Palm Beach laws, like Shiner Law Group, is crucial. An attorney can provide guidance on the appropriate timeframe and help ensure that your claim is filed in a timely and effective manner.

Adhering to the statute of limitations is critical for your truck accident claim in West Palm Beach. Delaying legal action can jeopardize your ability to receive compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.

Can I claim compensation if I was partially at fault?

Determining fault in a truck accident can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. It’s not uncommon for insurance companies and legal representatives to negotiate the degree of fault assigned to each party.

In these situations, having skilled legal representation becomes crucial. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help argue your case effectively, potentially reducing the degree of fault attributed to you and maximizing your compensation.

It’s also important to note that the determination of fault is not always clear-cut at the outset. Investigations, including accident reconstructions, witness statements, and expert testimonies, can significantly influence the apportionment of fault.

Therefore, even if you believe you may have been partially at fault, it’s advisable not to make any admissions or definitive statements until a thorough investigation has been conducted.

While being partially at fault in a truck accident in West Palm Beach does not bar you from claiming compensation, it does affect the amount you can recover. Engaging with a knowledgeable truck accident attorney can provide you with the necessary guidance and representation to navigate these complexities and help ensure that your rights and interests are adequately protected.

How much does it cost to hire a West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer?

Hiring a West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer does not cost you money upfront. At Shiner Law Group, we understand that finances can quickly get tight after a serious truck accident. You may find yourself struggling to manage your usual expenses and your medical bills, especially if you cannot work during your recovery.

We start with a free case review to help you understand the compensation you deserve and who may have contributed to your truck accident injuries. In most cases, we take on clients on a contingent fee basis: instead of paying upfront for your legal fees, you can pay for the legal expertise you need out of a percentage of the compensation we recover following your claim.

Does the truck driver’s insurance company have to pay for my medical bills?

The truck driver’s insurance company will not pay for your medical bills directly. Instead, if you receive compensation for the injuries you sustained in the accident, the truck driver’s insurance company will pay out compensation based on the expenses you faced due to your injuries. Typically, that can include compensation for your medical expenses. You will then need to make arrangements to pay your own medical bills.

However, you do have some options that could make it easier for you to manage your medical expenses following a serious truck accident.

Personal injury protection insurance. In Florida, drivers must carry personal injury protection insurance in addition to their liability insurance. Personal injury protection insurance provides coverage for many of your immediate medical expenses after any type of serious auto accident, including a truck accident. With your personal injury protection insurance, you can receive immediate coverage for medical care provided in the aftermath of the accident.

Because of Florida’s no-fault laws, you will need to use the full coverage provided by your PIP insurance before you can move forward with a personal injury claim to seek additional financial protection and coverage after the accident.

Health insurance. If you carry a personal health insurance policy, or have a policy through your employer, that policy may provide a great deal of protection when you sustain serious injuries in a truck accident. Your health insurance policy can offer vital coverage for many of your short-term and long-term medical expenses alike. If you require ongoing care after severe injuries, including broken bones that may require long-term physical therapy or back and neck injuries that cause permanent limitations, your health insurance can help alleviate some of the burden associated with those medical expenses.

Talk to your health insurance provider about what coverage you have following your truck accident. You may want to ask specific questions about the level of coverage you have for specific aspects of care that you will require following your accident.

Ask about:

  • Coverage for durable medical equipment, including crutches and wheelchairs, if needed.
  • Coverage for in-home medical care.
  • Coverage for long-term care.
  • Coverage for physical therapy.
  • In-network versus out-of-network coverage and providers.

In some cases, your health insurance coverage may limit the treatment you can receive in certain areas, including who you can use for specific types of medical treatment and how many therapy sessions your insurance will cover each year. Understanding your health insurance coverage can provide you with the tools you need to direct your care more effectively.

The truck driver’s insurance company offered me a settlement for my injuries. Should I take it?

Insurance companies may use a variety of tactics to limit the compensation they have to pay out after a truck accident, especially if you sustained severe injuries and deserve considerable compensation. One common tactic includes issuing a settlement offer shortly after the accident. That offer may not reflect the compensation you really deserve for your injuries. In some cases, the insurance company might, in fact, offer only a small percentage of the compensation you really deserve for the injuries you sustained in your truck accident.

Before accepting a settlement offer, talk to a personal injury attorney. Our attorneys can go over the compensation you really deserve for your injuries and help ensure that you fully understand your rights, which can make it easier for you to determine whether you should accept a settlement or continue to fight for the compensation you really deserve.

What other tactics do insurance companies use to fight truck accident claims, and how can I navigate them?

Insurance companies may use several tactics against you as you navigate your personal injury claim. They often assume that you have little to no knowledge of how the system works and what compensation you really deserve, which they could exploit to decrease the compensation they have to pay out for your injuries.

  • Pressuring you to accept an offer
  • Making light of your injuries and limitations
  • Claiming you caused or contributed to the accident

Why are truck accident claims more complicated than car accident claims?

Truck accident claims often require a great deal more investigation than a standard car accident.

After a truck accident, having an attorney on your side can be crucial to receiving the compensation you really deserve, uncovering the truth of your accident, and giving you a better idea of what to do next.

  • A truck accident may involve much more severe injuries than a car accident.
  • Your attorney will need to investigate more elements of the accident.

How long does it take to settle a truck accident claim?

Truck accident claims can take longer to settle than car accidents with only passenger vehicles.

You may need to go through several key stages as you move toward the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

  • Healing
  • Investigation
  • Negotiation
  • Court

While it may take time to settle a truck accident claim, you may find it worth the wait to dig in and push for the compensation you deserve. Your attorney can help guide you through the process and give you a better idea of how much compensation to pursue.

West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer: Shiner Law Group’s Expert Legal Insights

At Shiner Law Group, our dedicated team of West Palm Beach truck accident lawyers brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success in handling complex truck accident cases. Our deep understanding of Florida’s traffic laws, combined with our commitment to client advocacy, positions us as a leading legal authority in truck accident litigation.

Unmatched Expertise in Truck Accident Law

Our legal team, led by seasoned attorneys with extensive experience in truck accident law, is adept at navigating the intricate legal landscape of truck accidents in West Palm Beach. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families. Our approach is tailored to each client’s unique situation, ensuring personalized and effective legal representation.

Authoritative Legal Strategies for Maximum Compensation

Shiner Law Group’s authoritative stance in truck accident cases is built on a foundation of meticulous legal research, thorough investigation, and aggressive representation. We leverage our comprehensive knowledge of state and federal trucking regulations to build robust cases for our clients. Our goal is not just to win cases, but to secure the maximum possible compensation for our clients, helping them rebuild their lives after a truck accident.

Trustworthy Advocacy Rooted in Client Success

Trust is the cornerstone of our client relationships at Shiner Law Group. Our clients’ testimonials speak volumes about our commitment to their well-being and our relentless pursuit of justice on their behalf. We pride ourselves on our transparent communication, ethical practices, and a client-first philosophy that has earned us a reputation as a trustworthy legal partner in West Palm Beach.

Proven Track Record in West Palm Beach Truck Accident Cases

Our success stories are a testament to our expertise and dedication. From negotiating substantial settlements to winning challenging trials, our track record in West Palm Beach truck accident cases is a reflection of our legal acumen and our unwavering commitment to our clients’ rights.

At Shiner Law Group, we don’t just represent truck accident victims; we advocate for their right to fair compensation and justice. Contact us today to experience the expertise, authority, and trustworthiness that sets us apart as West Palm Beach’s premier truck accident lawyers.

Do You Need a West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer?

If you suffered serious injuries in a truck accident, do not wait to get in touch with a personal injury attorney. Shiner Law Group can help you better understand your right to compensation. Contact us today at (561) 777-7700 to learn more about your right to compensation after a truck accident.

West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer Review

West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer Review

View Reviews on Google

West Palm Beach Truck Accident & Injuruy Law Office

Shiner Law Group

1601 Belvedere Rd E-300 #21
West Palm Beach, FL 33406

(561) 777-7700

Click for driving directions

David I. Shiner

Featured Attorney

David Shiner Personal Injury AttorneyDavid I. Shiner is a distinguished personal injury lawyer and the founding force behind Shiner Law Group. Renowned for his vigorous advocacy on behalf of the injured, David commits to securing justice for those harmed due to negligence.

Learn More

Client Reviews

Verified Google My Business Reviews