Have you been injured in an 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident in New Port Richey, Florida? You could be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries from the trucking company, equipment manufacturer, or other parties. However, identifying who is responsible and getting the money you are owed might be challenging without the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
The team at Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers has 119 years of combined experience helping injury victims after truck accidents, car accidents, and more. We have recovered tens of millions of dollars in compensation. Contact us today or call (727) 910-5060 to schedule a free consultation with a New Port Richey 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyer.
How Winters & Yonker Can Help After an 18-Wheeler Truck Jackknife Accident in New Port Richey
The team at Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers can help victims in New Port Richey, Florida, stand up for their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. Our New Port Richey truck accident lawyers can help you by:
- Investigating your accident to determine who is liable
- Gathering evidence and using trucking industry experts who can help prove your claim
- Completing all necessary paperwork for the insurance claims process
- Handling all communication with the trucking company and insurance adjuster
- Negotiating a settlement that compensates you for all your damages
- Filing a lawsuit and aggressively litigating on your behalf in court
After an 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident, turn to the team you can trust to get results. Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a New Port Richey personal injury lawyer.
What Are Common Causes of Jackknife Accidents?
Jackknife accidents get their name from the way the truck and trailer resemble a small pocket knife in these situations. Instead of staying in a straight line, the trailer begins to swing around and creates a tight angle with the truck cab. Some of the most common causes are:
- Poor weather conditions
- Wet or slippery roads
- Equipment failure
- Speeding
- Not enough room to maneuver
- Inexperienced driver
Jackknife accidents are hazardous because other vehicles may be crushed between the truck and trailer. Additionally, the swinging trailer may hit multiple vehicles before a final stop.
What Are Common Injuries From Jackknife Accidents?
These accidents often result in devastating injuries, such as:
- Brain injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Amputation or loss of limb
- Spinal cord injuries and nerve damage
- Paralysis
- Back and neck injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
Accidents involving big trucks can get complicated for a few reasons. First, these cases can involve both state and federal regulations that apply to the trucking industry. Next, there may be multiple defendants in these cases, so establishing liability can sometimes be a challenge.
Who Could Be Liable for an Accident?
Some of the parties who could face responsibility after a jackknife accident are:
- Third-party vehicle drivers
- Truck driver
- Trucking company
- Equipment manufacturer
- Maintenance or service providers
In many cases, multiple parties are liable.
What Compensation Is Available After an Accident?
Victims who are injured in an 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident are entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Together, these damages compensate victims for both their financial losses as well as their physical and emotional pain and trauma. Some common examples include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
Can I Still Recover Compensation Even if I Am Partially Responsible for My Accident?
In some situations, the insurance company may try to put the blame on you for causing the accident. Since Florida follows a rule known as modified comparative negligence, you may still be able to recover compensation for your damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your damages will be reduced by your portion of the fault.
For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible for your accident, you will only be entitled to recover 70% of your damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Jackknife Accident in Florida?
In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit for your injuries. Missing this deadline can cause you to lose all your rights to recover any compensation. However, you should keep in mind that some special circumstances can make the deadline vary from the general rule. This is why it is important to always seek help from an experienced lawyer as soon after your accident as possible.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our New Port Richey 18-Wheeler Truck Jackknife Accident Lawyers
If you have been hurt in an 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident in New Port Richey, Florida, the team at Winters & Yonker is here to help you. We will take the time to listen to your situation and will fight diligently to get you all the compensation you are owed. We have over 119 years of combined experience and have recovered tens of millions of dollars in damages.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation with a New Port Richey 18-wheeler truck jackknife accident lawyer.
