According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), in 2016, nearly 4,000 people died in large truck crashes. 17 percent of fatalities were occupants in the truck, 66 percent were occupants in cars or other passenger vehicles, and 16 percent were pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists.
In fact, fatalities due to trucking accidents increased by 27 percent between 2009 and 2016. These statistics are a wake-up call to all drivers on the road, especially truck drivers. Still, some truck drivers continue to drive carelessly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, a West Palm Beach blind spot truck accident lawyer may be able to help. Call an experienced attorney today to discuss your case.
The Problem with Truck Blind Spots
Commercial trucks are inherently large and cumbersome. To be more efficient, trucking manufacturers and companies are willing to trade in some mobility and driver vision to load as much cargo onto their trucks as possible. From a business perspective this is a logical move; however, from a safety and legal perspective, it is extremely dangerous and irresponsible.
Most trucks are equipped with large specialty side-view mirrors as well as other safety features and equipment. Even so, drivers often cannot see everything surrounding their vehicle. Blind spots still exist due to the size of commercial trucks which can cause accidents between these trucks and passenger vehicles. When a driver fails to consider their large blind spots and drives recklessly or negligently, they can be held liable for any accidents they cause.
Time Limits to File a Claim
In Florida, the statute of limitations, or time limit to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident is four years as per Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a). Even though the law allows for four years, the sooner an accident victim can contact a West Palm Beach blind spot truck accident lawyer the better as this will help preserve evidence.
After four years from the date of the accident, a potential plaintiff in a trucking accident case will no longer have any legal recourse to recover their damages. The law does not bar them from filing suit, however, the attorneys for the defendant may file a motion to have the case dismissed due to the expired statute of limitations.
Talking to a West Palm Beach Blind Spot Truck Accident Attorney
An experienced West Palm Beach blind spot truck accident lawyer can help you get your life back on track after a trucking accident. They know that no amount of monetary compensation will take you back to your pre-accident life, but it can help pay extensive medical bills and help to rebuild your life.
An attorney’s goal is to seek justice for you and to hold truck drivers and trucking companies accountable for their negligence. A well-versed accident attorney can review the circumstances surrounding your accident and injuries to determine if you have a valid case. If so, they can file a lawsuit on your behalf and seek compensation for you. To learn more, call today.
Speak to a member of our team today.