A minor truck accident in Delray Beach, Florida, may not seem serious enough to involve a lawyer. However, even a relatively low-speed collision with a commercial truck can lead to injuries, unexpected medical expenses, vehicle damage, and disputes with insurance companies.
You may benefit from speaking with a lawyer if you were injured, your symptoms appeared after the crash, fault is disputed, or an insurance company is challenging your claim. An attorney can also determine whether the truck driver, trucking company, or another party may be responsible.
When Should You Consider Hiring a Lawyer After a Minor Truck Accident?
Not every minor truck accident requires legal representation. If no one was injured, property damage is minimal, and the insurance companies resolve the claim fairly, you may be able to handle the matter without an attorney.
However, you should consider getting legal advice when:
- You suffered an injury or developed symptoms after the accident
- You needed medical treatment
- The insurance company disputes who caused the collision
- The trucking company or its insurer contacts you for a statement
- Your vehicle sustained significant damage
- You missed work because of your injuries
- Multiple parties may share responsibility
- The insurer denies your claim or offers a settlement that does not cover your losses
A consultation can help you understand whether you have a viable personal injury claim before you make decisions that could affect your ability to recover compensation.
Can a Minor Truck Accident Cause Serious Injuries?
Yes. The visible damage to a vehicle does not necessarily indicate the severity of an occupant’s injuries. Some injuries may also produce symptoms that become more noticeable in the hours or days following a collision.
Potential injuries from a truck accident include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Shoulder and knee injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
Seeking medical attention can protect your health while creating documentation of your injuries and treatment. Medical records may become important evidence if you later pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Why Can a Truck Accident Claim Be More Complicated Than a Car Accident Claim?
Even a seemingly minor truck accident can involve issues less common in an ordinary passenger vehicle collision. For example, the truck driver may have been working for a trucking company or another business at the time of the crash.
Depending on the circumstances, potentially responsible parties could include:
- The truck driver
- A trucking company or motor carrier
- The owner of the truck
- A maintenance or repair provider
- A company responsible for loading cargo
- A vehicle or parts manufacturer
Truck accident investigations may also involve driver qualification records, hours-of-service information, maintenance records, electronic data, cargo documentation, and other evidence. Identifying the parties involved and preserving relevant evidence can be important even when a crash initially appears minor.
What Compensation May Be Available After a Florida Truck Accident?
If another party’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to pursue compensation for losses resulting from your injuries.
Depending on the facts of your case, recoverable economic damages and non-economic damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that compensation in a negligence action may be reduced according to a claimant’s percentage of fault. In most negligence actions, a person found more than 50% responsible cannot recover damages.
How Long Do You Have To File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Florida?
Florida generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for negligence lawsuits. However, the applicable deadline may depend on the circumstances. Waiting can also make it more difficult to preserve evidence, locate witnesses, and obtain records related to the truck and driver.
For these reasons, it can be helpful to investigate a truck accident promptly rather than assuming that a minor collision cannot lead to a significant claim.
Contact Dalton Injury Law After a Minor Truck Accident in Delray Beach, FL
A truck accident does not have to look severe at the scene to create medical, financial, or legal problems later. Understanding your rights early can help you make informed decisions about your claim.
If you’ve been hurt in Delray Beach, Florida, please call Dalton Injury Law today to schedule a free case evaluation with truck accident lawyer, or contact us online.
Dalton Injury Law
909 SE 5th Ave C, Delray Beach, FL 33483
(561) 600-1766
Monday to Friday 9AM-5PM
