Lakeland Truck Accident Lawyers

Our team at Neufeld & Kleinberg, P.A. is ready to fight for your rights and guide you through every step of your truck accident claim. Don’t wait; contact us today and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Truck accidents in Lakeland often result in devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and significant emotional distress. If you have been involved in a truck accident, you are likely facing a complex legal process while trying to recover physically and emotionally.

At Neufeld & Kleinberg, PA, our experienced Lakeland truck accident lawyers are here to provide the guidance and support you need. We understand the unique challenges these cases present, including navigating federal trucking regulations, dealing with powerful insurance companies, and determining liability in multi-party claims.

With a proven track record of securing fair compensation for our clients, we are committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Leading Causes of Truck Accidents in Lakeland, Florida

Truck accidents in the Lakeland area are not only catastrophic but also alarmingly common due to various factors that impact road safety. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them capable of causing devastating injuries and extensive property damage when accidents occur.

Understanding the leading causes of truck accidents is necessary for drivers, trucking companies, and policymakers to take preventive measures and improve roadway safety.

Driver Fatigue

One of the most common causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight deadlines, despite federal regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive consecutively. Fatigue can impair a driver’s reaction time, judgment, and ability to stay alert, increasing the risk of accidents. In Lakeland, where highways like I-4 are heavily trafficked by commercial trucks, fatigued driving can have devastating consequences for other motorists.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is another leading cause of truck accidents in Lakeland. Distractions can include texting, using a GPS, eating, or even adjusting the radio. For truck drivers, the consequences of momentary inattention can be particularly severe due to the size and weight of their vehicles. A truck traveling at high speeds can take much longer to stop than a passenger vehicle, making even a brief distraction potentially deadly.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding and reckless driving contribute significantly to truck accidents. Commercial trucks require a longer stopping distance than smaller vehicles, and excessive speed increases the likelihood of collisions.

Reckless behaviors such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, or failing to yield the right of way further endanger other road users. These behaviors are especially hazardous on Lakeland’s busy roadways, where truck traffic is often heavy.

Improper Maintenance and Mechanical Failures

Trucks are complex machines that require regular maintenance to operate safely. When trucking companies or drivers neglect proper upkeep, mechanical failures can occur. Common issues include brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions.

In some cases, defective parts may also play a role. Lakeland truck accidents caused by mechanical failures often lead to questions of liability, involving manufacturers, maintenance providers, or trucking companies.

Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo

Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks are a significant hazard on the road. When cargo is not secured properly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and increasing the likelihood of a rollover accident.

Overloaded trucks also place additional strain on brakes and tires, leading to equipment failure. In places where commercial trucks frequently transport goods across the state, improper cargo loading is a serious safety concern.

Weather and Road Conditions

Adverse weather, such as heavy rain or fog, can make Lakeland’s roads dangerous for truck drivers. Slippery surfaces reduce traction, while reduced visibility increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, poorly maintained roads or construction zones can pose challenges for large trucks, which may struggle to navigate uneven surfaces or detours.

Inadequate Driver Training

Operating a commercial truck requires specialized skills and training. When trucking companies fail to ensure their drivers are adequately trained, the risk of accidents increases. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with maneuvering, handling heavy loads, or responding to emergencies, leading to preventable accidents on Lakeland’s roadways.

Truck accidents often stem from preventable causes. Addressing these issues requires a collaborative effort between trucking companies, drivers, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with safety standards and reduce risks on the road.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, understanding the causes of your accident can help you pursue justice and compensation. Consult an experienced truck accident lawyer at Nuefeld & Kleinberg, PA to explore your legal options and hold negligent parties accountable.

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Lakeland Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the immense size and weight of commercial trucks compared to passenger vehicles. Victims involved in these collisions frequently face life-altering consequences, from significant physical trauma to long-term emotional and financial challenges.

Understanding the most common injuries in truck accidents helps highlight the seriousness of these incidents and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries are among the most devastating outcomes of truck accidents. These injuries occur when the brain is subjected to a violent impact, such as during a collision or rollover. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially causing cognitive impairments, memory loss, and emotional disturbances.

Victims of TBIs often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, particularly in high-speed collisions common on Lakeland’s highways.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a truck accident can cause significant damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can affect mobility and sensation, with victims often facing permanent disabilities that require adaptive equipment and lifelong care. These injuries are not only physically debilitating but also emotionally and financially draining for victims and their families.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones are one of the most common injuries in truck accidents. The impact of a collision can exert tremendous force on the body, leading to fractures in areas such as the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Severe fractures may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods. Compound fractures, in which the bone pierces the skin, carry a higher risk of infection and complications.

Internal Injuries

Truck accidents can also cause damage to internal organs, including the liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys. Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent, potentially leading to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly.

Victims experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing after an accident should seek medical attention immediately.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

The sudden jolt caused by a truck collision often results in whiplash and other neck injuries. Whiplash occurs when the head is forcefully thrown forward and backward, damaging the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck. While some cases resolve with time, others may lead to chronic pain and restricted mobility, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life.

Burns

Burn injuries can occur in truck accidents involving fuel spills and fires. Burns can range from minor to severe, with victims often requiring skin grafts, surgery, and extensive rehabilitation. Severe burns may also lead to scarring, disfigurement, and psychological trauma, further complicating a victim’s recovery process.

Cuts, Lacerations, and Bruising

While minor compared to other injuries, cuts, and lacerations from shattered glass, debris, or vehicle impact are common in truck accidents. Deep lacerations may require stitches or surgery to repair and can lead to permanent scarring. Bruising, though less severe, often indicates underlying trauma that should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Truck accidents in Lakeland frequently result in serious injuries that have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial effects on victims. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries are among the most severe, often requiring extensive treatment and rehabilitation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s important to seek immediate medical care and consult an experienced truck accident lawyer.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Lakeland Truck Accident?

Being involved in a truck accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. However, knowing the steps to take immediately after the accident can make a significant difference in protecting your health, legal rights, and ability to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Here’s a detailed guide on what you should do following a truck accident.

Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

The first priority is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Move to a safe location if possible, away from traffic or potential hazards such as leaking fuel. Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency assistance. Having police and medical personnel at the scene is essential for documenting the accident and addressing any injuries.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Truck accidents often cause injuries that may not be apparent right away, such as internal damage or traumatic brain injuries. A thorough medical evaluation ensures your injuries are properly documented, which will be vital for your insurance claim or legal case.

Document the Accident Scene

Gathering evidence at the scene is crucial for establishing liability. Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene, including:

• Vehicle damage.
• Skid marks or debris on the road.
• Truck license plates and identifying information (such as the company name).
• Road conditions and traffic signs.

This documentation provides a clear record of the circumstances surrounding the accident and can support your case later.

Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other parties involved. Collect the truck driver’s name, license number, and employer details, as well as the trucking company’s insurance information. Avoid discussing fault or making statements about the cause of the accident, as these could be used against you later.

Speak with Witnesses

If there are witnesses at the scene, ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. Witness testimony can be invaluable in corroborating your version of events and establishing liability.

File a Police Report

The police report is a key piece of evidence in truck accident cases. It contains an official record of the incident, including details about the parties involved, the officer’s observations, and any citations issued. Make sure to request a copy of the report for your records.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the basic details but avoid making recorded statements or accepting blame until you’ve consulted a lawyer.

Consult a Lakeland Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are often more complex than standard car accident claims due to factors like federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and the severity of damages.

Consulting an experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. A lawyer can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather additional evidence, and determine liability.

Taking the right steps immediately after a truck accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Acting quickly and decisively can have a major effect on how you recover physically, emotionally, and financially after a traumatic accident.

How to Prove Negligence After a Truck Accident in Florida

Proving negligence is a critical step in recovering compensation after a truck accident. Truck accidents often result in severe injuries and significant financial losses, so demonstrating that another party’s carelessness or recklessness caused the accident is essential to securing justice.

To establish negligence, you must prove four legal elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what it takes to prove negligence in a truck accident case.

Establishing Duty of Care

The first step in proving negligence is to show that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care. In the context of a truck accident, this typically involves demonstrating that:

• Truck Drivers: Have a responsibility to operate their vehicles safely, follow traffic laws, and adhere to federal regulations governing commercial trucking.
• Trucking Companies: These are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining vehicles, and complying with safety standards.
• Other Third Parties: Such as maintenance crews or cargo loaders, may also owe a duty of care to ensure the safe operation of the truck.

This duty is usually straightforward to establish since all drivers and trucking entities have an obligation to act in a way that protects others on the road.

Proving a Breach of Duty

Once a duty of care is established, you must demonstrate that the at-fault party breached that duty. A breach occurs when the responsible party fails to act as a reasonable person or entity would under similar circumstances. Common examples of breaches in truck accident cases include:

• Truck Driver Negligence: Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, driving under the influence, or failing to yield.
• Trucking Company Negligence: Failing to conduct proper background checks on drivers, pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic schedules, or neglecting truck maintenance.
• Improper Cargo Loading: Overloading or improperly securing cargo, leading to shifting loads that can cause accidents.

Evidence of these breaches can include police reports, eyewitness testimony, truck logs, surveillance footage, or black box data from the truck.

Establishing Causation

Proving causation is one of the most challenging aspects of a truck accident case. You must show that the breach of duty directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries. For example:

• If a truck driver was texting and rear-ended your vehicle, their distracted driving would be the direct cause of the crash. You would have to be able to prove through phone records or some other evidence that the truck driver was texting.
• If a trucking company neglected maintenance, leading to brake failure, the company’s negligence would be the proximate cause of the accident. Maintenance records may prove as valuable evidence to show the lapse in maintaining the truck.

In some cases, causation can involve multiple parties. For example, a defective truck part might contribute to an accident alongside driver error. An experienced lawyer can help identify and link all contributing factors to the accident.

Demonstrating Damages

Finally, you must prove that the accident caused you actual damages, which can be economic, non-economic, or both. Examples include:

• Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.

Collecting evidence like medical records, repair invoices, and expert testimony can help substantiate your claim for compensation. It’s important to keep detailed documentation of all expenses and losses resulting from the accident.

Types of Evidence to Prove Negligence

To build a strong case, you’ll need robust evidence to support your claims. Key types of evidence include:

• Police Reports: These provide an official account of the accident, including any citations issued to the truck driver.
• Black Box Data: Most commercial trucks are equipped with electronic logging devices that record data such as speed, braking patterns, and hours of service, which can help prove negligence.
• Maintenance Records: Showing whether the truck was properly inspected and maintained.
• Witness Statements: Eyewitnesses can corroborate details about how the accident occurred.
• Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the crash and explain how negligence contributed to the incident.

Role of a Truck Accident Lawyer in Proving Negligence

Proving negligence in a truck accident case often requires legal expertise and a thorough investigation. A skilled lawyer will do all of the following to ensure your case has a successful outcome:

• Obtain critical evidence, such as trucking logs and black box data.
• Investigate the trucking company’s practices and policies.
• Work with experts to reconstruct the accident and determine liability.
• Negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.

Since multiple parties may be liable in a truck accident case, having legal representation ensures all responsible parties are held accountable.

Acting quickly to gather evidence and consult a lawyer will significantly strengthen your case and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Federal Regulations That Impact Truck Accident Claims

Truck accidents differ significantly from standard vehicle collisions, and one main reason is that there are complex federal regulations that govern the commercial trucking industry.

These regulations, enforced primarily by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, are designed to ensure safety and accountability. Understanding how these federal laws apply can play a critical role in determining liability and building a strong case after a truck accident.

Hours of Service Regulations

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents, and HOS rules are designed to prevent truck drivers from operating vehicles while excessively tired. These regulations dictate the maximum hours a driver can be on the road and require breaks during long shifts. Key provisions include:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 14-Hour Workday Limit: Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, even with breaks.
• Mandatory Rest Breaks: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after driving for eight cumulative hours without at least a 30-minute interruption.

If a truck driver violates these regulations and causes an accident, their negligence can be used to establish liability. Evidence from driver logs and electronic logging devices can be crucial in proving HOS violations.

Weight and Cargo Regulations

The FMCSA enforces strict weight limits and cargo securement standards to ensure trucks are operated safely. Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause accidents by affecting a truck’s stability, braking ability, or maneuverability.

• Weight Limits: The federal gross vehicle weight limit is 80,000 pounds for most commercial trucks.
• Cargo Securement: Specific rules govern how cargo must be secured to prevent it from shifting, falling, or spilling during transit.

Violations of these rules can point to negligence on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, or cargo loaders.

Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

Federal regulations require commercial trucks to undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Trucking companies and drivers must:

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
• Keep records of all maintenance and repairs.
• Comply with periodic inspection requirements set by the FMCSA.

Mechanical failures caused by poor maintenance, such as brake or tire issues, can result in devastating accidents. Maintenance records are critical evidence in determining whether a violation contributed to the crash.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations

Truck drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing rules to minimize the risk of impaired driving. The FMCSA mandates:

• Pre-employment drug testing for all drivers.
• Random drug and alcohol testing during employment.
• Post-accident testing for drivers involved in certain types of accidents.

If a driver fails to comply with these testing requirements or is found to be impaired, it can establish clear negligence. Employers who fail to enforce these rules may also share liability.

Licensing and Training Requirements

Federal regulations require all truck drivers to hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License and undergo specialized training. Drivers must demonstrate competency in operating commercial vehicles and knowledge of safety protocols. In some cases, additional endorsements are needed for handling hazardous materials or oversized loads.

• If a driver lacks the proper licensing or training, their employer may be held liable for negligent hiring practices.

Electronic Logging Devices Compliance

The FMCSA requires most commercial trucks to be equipped with ELDs to ensure accurate tracking of HOS compliance. ELDs record critical data such as driving hours, vehicle speed, and brake usage. These devices provide crucial evidence in truck accident cases, especially when HOS violations or reckless driving are suspected.

Hazmat Regulations

Trucks transporting hazardous materials are subject to additional safety protocols under federal law. These include requirements for proper labeling, secure containment, and specialized driver training. Accidents involving hazmat cargo can result in severe injuries, property damage, and environmental hazards. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to significant liability for the trucking company or driver.

Proving Liability Using Federal Regulations

Federal regulations often serve as a benchmark for determining negligence in truck accident cases. Violations of FMCSA rules can demonstrate a failure to meet the industry’s standard of care. For example:

• A driver exceeding HOS limits can be shown to have been fatigued at the time of the accident.
• A trucking company failing to maintain its fleet can be held responsible for mechanical failures.
• A cargo loader disregarding weight limits or securement guidelines can be liable for accidents caused by shifting or falling cargo.

Proving these violations often requires gathering evidence such as:

• Driver logs and ELD data.
• Maintenance and inspection records.
• Witness statements and expert analysis.
• Police reports detailing the accident and any cited violations.

Federal Trucking Regulations Are Inherently Complex

Federal regulations are intricate and often involve overlapping responsibilities between drivers, trucking companies, and other parties. Determining liability requires in-depth knowledge of these laws, as well as access to critical evidence. An experienced truck accident lawyer can navigate these complexities, identify violations, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Federal regulations governing the trucking industry play a central role in truck accident cases. These laws ensure safety and accountability, but violations can have devastating consequences. Understanding how these rules impact your case is essential for proving negligence and securing fair compensation.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Lakeland, consulting a skilled truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, uncover regulatory violations, and build a strong case for your recovery.

Potential Compensation Available After a Lakeland Truck Accident

Truck accidents often result in devastating consequences, leaving victims facing severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships. If you were involved in a truck accident in Lakeland, you might be entitled to compensation for the damages you’ve suffered.

These damages fall into three primary categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Understanding each type can help you determine what you may be eligible to claim.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to measurable financial losses directly related to the accident. These damages are often the most straightforward to calculate, as they are based on actual expenses and documented costs. Common types of economic damages include:

Medical Expenses

Truck accidents frequently cause severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. Victims can seek compensation for:

• Emergency room visits and hospital stays.
• Surgeries, diagnostic tests, and specialist consultations.
• Ongoing treatment, including physical therapy and rehabilitation.
• Prescription medications and medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or prosthetics.

Lost Wages

Injuries from a truck accident may prevent you from returning to work for weeks, months, or even permanently. You can claim compensation for:

• Wages lost during recovery.
• Lost earning capacity if your injuries impact your ability to perform your job or require a career change.

Property Damage

The size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to significant damage to other vehicles involved in accidents. Victims can recover the costs of repairing or replacing their vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

You may also be eligible to recover costs for incidental expenses, such as transportation to medical appointments, childcare, or home modifications needed to accommodate your injuries.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses that do not have a fixed monetary value but significantly impact your quality of life. These damages often make up a substantial portion of truck accident claims, as the emotional and physical toll of a serious accident can be profound.

Pain and Suffering

Truck accidents can cause extensive physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for:

• Chronic pain from long-term injuries.
• Emotional anguish, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

Severe injuries may prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with loved ones. Damages for loss of enjoyment of life address these losses.

Loss of Consortium

If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or family, such as by impairing your ability to provide companionship, support, or intimacy, you may be eligible for loss of consortium damages.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not available in every truck accident case but may apply in rare cases if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Examples of conduct that may warrant punitive damages include:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Deliberately violating safety regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits.
• Gross negligence in vehicle maintenance, such as knowingly operating a truck with faulty brakes.

Determining the Value of Your Claim

The total value of your claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the impact on your life. Proving the full extent of your damages requires thorough documentation, such as:

• Medical records and bills.
• Pay stubs and tax returns to calculate lost wages.
• Expert testimony, such as from medical professionals or vocational experts.
• Photographs of your injuries and the accident scene.

The Role of Comparative Fault

Florida follows a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially responsible for the accident. For example, if you were deemed 20% at fault, your total damages would be reduced by 20%. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help minimize your share of fault and protect your right to fair compensation.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Truck accident cases are often more complex than standard car accident claims due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, or maintenance provider. Additionally, the federal regulations governing the trucking industry can impact liability and damages.

An experienced truck accident lawyer will:

• Investigate the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
• Gather evidence to prove the full extent of your damages.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if your case proceeds to litigation.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Lakeland, understanding the types of compensation available is essential for recovering the damages you deserve. From economic losses like medical expenses and lost wages to non-economic damages for pain and suffering, a comprehensive claim can help you rebuild your life after a traumatic event.

How Working with a Lawyer Improves the Outcome of Your Case

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, hiring an experienced truck accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Below, we’ll explore the key ways that working with a lawyer can benefit your case and help you navigate the legal process.

Investigating the Cause of the Accident

One of the primary benefits of hiring a truck accident lawyer is their skill and ability when it comes to thoroughly investigating the cause of the accident. Truck accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as driver error, mechanical failure, poor maintenance, or even improper cargo loading. Determining the exact cause of the crash is crucial for identifying the responsible parties and building a strong case.

An experienced lawyer will know how to access and review critical evidence, including:

• Driver logs and electronic logging device data to determine if the driver was following Hours of Service regulations.
• Maintenance and inspection records to uncover any mechanical failures.
• The trucking company’s safety and training records.
• Dashcam footage, accident reports, and witness testimonies.

This thorough investigation can reveal violations of federal or state regulations, which can be used to establish negligence and strengthen your case.

Identifying All Liable Parties

In truck accident cases, liability may extend beyond just the truck driver. Several parties could be responsible for the crash, including:

• The trucking company that employed the driver.
• The company responsible for loading the cargo.
• The truck manufacturer if a mechanical defect was involved.
• Maintenance providers who failed to keep the vehicle in safe working condition.

An experienced lawyer will investigate to identify all potentially liable parties and hold them accountable for your damages. This can maximize the compensation you receive, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the accident.

Navigating Complex Regulations

Truck accidents are governed by federal and state regulations that do not apply to ordinary car accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration imposes strict rules on truck drivers, including limits on driving hours, vehicle maintenance standards, and cargo securing requirements. Violations of these regulations can serve as evidence of negligence and significantly impact your case.

A skilled truck accident lawyer will have a deep understanding of these complex regulations and know how to use them to your advantage. They can help determine if any regulations were violated by the truck driver or their employer, which could strengthen your claim and lead to a more favorable settlement or verdict.

Handling Insurance Companies

After a truck accident, you’ll likely be dealing with large insurance companies that represent the trucking company and the driver. These insurers often have extensive resources and legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts, which can make it difficult to secure a fair settlement.

A lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance companies, ensuring that they do not take advantage of you or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, using their legal expertise to push for the maximum compensation possible. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they can take your case to trial.

Calculating the Full Extent of Your Damages

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. Calculating the full extent of your damages is critical to ensure that you receive fair compensation for all your losses, both current and future.

A lawyer can work with medical experts to determine the long-term impact of your injuries. They can calculate:

• Current and future medical expenses.
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Additionally, if you’re dealing with permanent disability or a long recovery period, your lawyer can help you project future costs and ensure that these are included in your compensation request.

Reducing Your Stress and Allowing You to Focus on Recovery

Recovering from a truck accident can be physically and emotionally draining. The legal process, with its mountains of paperwork, deadlines, and negotiations, can add unnecessary stress to an already challenging situation.

By hiring a lawyer, you can offload the legal responsibilities and focus on healing. Your attorney will handle the day-to-day details of your case, including filing paperwork, gathering evidence, and attending hearings. This will allow you to concentrate on your recovery without being overwhelmed by legal complexities.

Experience with Truck Accident Cases

A lawyer with experience in handling truck accident cases will be familiar with the challenges and complications that often arise and will have a proven track record of success in these types of cases.

Experienced truck accident attorneys understand how to maximize compensation, whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation. Their expertise ensures that you won’t overlook any potential claims or avenues of recovery.

Securing a Fair Settlement or Winning in Court

One of the most important benefits of working with a lawyer is their ability to secure a fair settlement or win your case in court. Lawyers are skilled negotiators who know how to build compelling arguments backed by strong evidence. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer will be prepared to take the case to trial and advocate for your best interests in front of a judge and jury.

Neufeld & Kleinberg, PA and You: A Winning Team

​If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident in Lakeland, Neufeld & Kleinberg, P.A. is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case. With over 100 years of combined experience, our dedicated team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve.

We offer free initial case evaluations to discuss your situation and outline the best course of action. Contact us today at (305) 690-0617 to schedule your consultation.