Wrongful Death In Tractor-Trailer Accidents
The weight and the potentially unwieldy nature of a tractor-trailer can lead to severe accidents if one ever comes in contact with a passenger vehicle, or even fatalities if the wreck is bad enough. Losing a loved one suddenly to an accident like this is a life-changing tragedy, and it can feel somehow wrong to seek compensation for their passing – but in truth, you have the right to seek damages for the harm you and your family have suffered. The only caveat is that it may be somewhat confusing to navigate the legal process. An experienced attorney can help.
A Disproportionate Amount Of Fatalities
Florida law defines wrongful death as a death caused by the “wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach” of contract or warranty of another person. A high proportion of these deaths involve vehicle accidents, either between two cars or between a large truck and a passenger vehicle. Accidents involving large trucks are not uncommon on Florida roads, and unfortunately, the injuries and fatalities in such accidents make up a disproportionate amount of the state’s overall road casualties.
The frequency of casualties can sometimes make it more difficult to file suit over a person’s passing, because sometimes, it is not possible to prove negligence or a truly wrongful act; unfortunately, sometimes accidents simply happen. However, it is still often worth it to seek damages, both to keep your finances above water (particularly if the deceased was the family breadwinner), and to obtain some kind of closure.
Act Fast
If you have lost a loved one in an accident involving a tractor-trailer, know that there are several different possible causes for this type of crash, and many of them can be traced back to driver error (whether the trucker’s, or the deceased person’s, if they were at the wheel). Some include driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours of service regulations, or driving recklessly.
Be advised, when trying to mount a case for wrongful death, that you may not have long to do so – Florida law places the statute of limitations on these cases at only two years. This seems like a long time, but in reality, it can pass before you know it – and once this period passes, you are forever barred from filing suit in this matter. It is crucial to make the decision to file suit as quickly as possible, so that you have a chance to recover for what you have been through.
Contact A Tampa Tractor-Trailer Attorney
While every tractor-trailer accident tells a different story to law enforcement, an accident in which you have lost someone dear to you will forever stay in your mind. You deserve to recover for what you have suffered, even if it will not bring them back. A compassionate Tampa tractor-trailer accident attorney from the Rinaldo Law Group can help guide you through the legal process. Call our office today at (813) 831-9999 for a free consultation.
