Deerfield Beach Truck Liability Lawyer
Accidents involving big rigs almost always result in devastating injuries and extensive property damage. Florida and federal allow truck accident victims to pursue compensation for their damages under the theory of negligence. To prove negligence, a victim and his or her attorney must first prove liability…but who is responsible in truck accident cases?
When it comes to 18-wheeler accidents, one or more parties may be held at fault. Our Deerfield Beach truck liability lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez have the resources necessary to investigate the accident, determine the cause, and pinpoint the liable party. If you or a loved one was involved in a big-rig accident and want to ensure that the responsible party is held financially accountable, contact our law firm today.
Liability in Truck Accidents
Anytime a commercial vehicle collides with a passenger vehicle, matters automatically become complicated. This is because trucks are governed either by local or federal regulations. Which regulations govern the trucker that hit you may affect who is at fault, as can several other factors relating to your accident, such as where your accident occurred, when, and how. For this reason, it is best to work with a lawyer who understands the unique circumstances surrounding truck accidents and who can help you determine fault—and therefore, who should be held liable—as quickly as possible.
Interstate Vs. Intrastate Trucking
How and if you can recover damages all depends on the type of truck that hit you: Was it an interstate or an intrastate truck? There are different laws and regulations that govern both types of trucks, which is why it is imperative that you understand the difference between each before filing your claim.
Interstate Trucking:Interstate trucks refer to those that travel between states. If a truck travels back and forth across even two states’ borders, accident claims will come under interstate liability law. Some types of trucks that must abide by interstate laws include the following:
- UPS, FedEx, and other mail carrier trucks;
- Charter buses;
- Grocery store or retail trucks;
- Logging trucks; and
- Petroleum trucks.
Trucks that fall under the interstate classification are regulated by the Department of Transportation and are required to abide by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations are a set of laws that govern details such as how long truckers are allowed to drive on any given day to how much weight per axle trucks are permitted to carry. This set of laws was implemented to help prevent accidents by ensuring that drivers are well rested and that trucks are not overburdened with cargo.
Intrastate Trucking: Intrastate trucks refer to those that conduct all of their business within a single state. Common types of intrastate trucks include the following:
- Gas trucks;
- Transit buses;
- Fire trucks;
- Water trucks;
- School buses;
- Local delivery trucks; and
- Garbage and waste vehicles.
These trucks are not governed by the strict regulations set forth by the federal government’s Department of Transportation. Rather, they are governed by Florida law. Fortunately, Florida law is fairly strict and upholds truckers to many of the same requirements as the Department.
Injured in a Trucking Accident? Contact Leifer & Ramirez Today
If you or a loved one was injured in an interstate or intrastate trucking accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Some such damages include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. Regardless of how the accident happened or where, our Deerfield Beach truck liability lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez are prepared to help you determine who is at fault and therefore, who should be held liable. Contact our team today to discuss your options for recovery in a free and private consultation.
