At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we understand that being involved in a truck accident can turn your life upside down. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to devastating injuries, costly medical bills, and emotional trauma for victims and their families. Trucking accidents are more than just traffic collisions; they are complex legal battles involving multiple parties, federal and state regulations, and high stakes. As one of the leading personal injury law firms, our team of Royal Palm Beach truck accident lawyers is dedicated to providing compassionate, results-driven representation to victims who need it most.
With decades of experience handling truck accident claims, we have the expertise to navigate these challenging cases and ensure that negligent parties are held accountable. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, loss of income, or the pain of losing a loved one, Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A. is here to fight for you. Call us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.
Why Choose Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A.?
When it comes to truck accident cases, not all law firms are created equal. Truck accident claims require a unique combination of legal knowledge, investigative skills, and negotiation expertise. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we pride ourselves on being more than just Royal Palm Beach truck accident lawyers; we are advocates for justice in our community.
Proven Experience with Truck Accident Cases
Our team has successfully represented hundreds of truck accident victims in Royal Palm Beach and throughout Florida. We have a track record of recovering millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients who have suffered due to trucking company negligence, driver errors, and other preventable factors.
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge
Truck accidents are governed by complex state and federal regulations, including those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Violations of these regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits or failing to maintain equipment, often play a crucial role in determining liability. Our attorneys have deep expertise in these laws and know how to leverage them to strengthen your case.
Client-Focused Representation
At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we believe that every client deserves individualized attention. We take the time to understand your unique circumstances, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process with empathy and care. Your case isn’t just another file to us—it’s a story we’re dedicated to resolving.
Bilingual Services
We proudly serve both English- and Spanish-speaking clients. Legal jargon can be intimidating, and we make sure that language is never a barrier to achieving justice.
No Upfront Costs
Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. This ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of obtaining top-quality legal representation.
Comprehensive Legal Help for Truck Accident Victims in Royal Palm Beach
Truck accidents often involve serious injuries, extensive property damage, and long-term consequences for victims. Unlike typical car accidents, these cases are more complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we handle every aspect of your case, from conducting thorough investigations to negotiating with insurers or taking your case to trial.
Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle
- Semi-Truck Accidents: These massive vehicles are involved in some of the deadliest collisions due to their size and limited maneuverability.
- Commercial Vehicle Collisions: We handle cases involving delivery trucks, garbage trucks, and other commercial vehicles.
- Rear-End Collisions: Large trucks require more stopping distance, making rear-end collisions common and often severe.
- Rollover Accidents: Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo can cause trucks to roll over, endangering nearby drivers.
- Wrongful Death Cases: Families who lose a loved one in a truck accident often face financial and emotional hardships, which we help address through legal action.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Royal Palm Beach
Truck accidents can happen for many reasons, but most are preventable. Understanding the cause of your accident is key to building a strong case and determining liability. Some of the most common causes include:
Truck Driver Negligence
Truck drivers are often under immense pressure to meet deadlines, leading to dangerous behaviors such as:
- Distracted Driving: Using cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions while driving.
- Fatigue: Federal regulations limit how many hours a truck driver can be on the road, but violations are common. Fatigued driving slows reaction times and impairs judgment.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively to make up for lost time.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drug use among truck drivers, though rare, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their fleets are well-maintained. Common mechanical failures include:
- Brake malfunctions
- Tire blowouts
- Faulty steering systems
Failure to address these issues can lead to devastating accidents.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Cargo loaders must ensure that goods are balanced and secured. Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks are prone to rollovers and loss of control.
Hazardous Weather Conditions
Rain, fog, and slippery roads can exacerbate the risks of a truck accident. While these conditions are unavoidable, truck drivers are trained to adapt their driving to minimize risks.
Third-Party Negligence
Sometimes, third parties such as maintenance contractors, cargo loaders, or equipment manufacturers share responsibility for a truck accident.
Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
The injuries resulting from truck accidents are often catastrophic, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we work closely with medical experts to document your injuries and calculate the full extent of your damages.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries from a truck accident can range from mild concussions to severe TBIs, which may result in:
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Emotional instability
- Long-term physical disabilities
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering a victim’s quality of life and requiring lifelong care.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a truck collision can cause complex fractures that may require multiple surgeries and lengthy rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries
Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
Burns and Lacerations
Fires, fuel leaks, and shattered glass can result in severe burns and deep cuts, leaving permanent scars.
Emotional Trauma
The psychological impact of a truck accident can be profound, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Your Rights as a Truck Accident Victim
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, Florida law grants you the right to seek compensation for your losses. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we are committed to ensuring that you recover the maximum compensation you are entitled to under the law.
Types of Compensation Available
After a truck accident, victims may recover compensation to address both financial losses and emotional suffering. Here’s a summary of the key types of damages:
Medical Expenses
Covers costs such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing treatments. Future medical needs are also included to ensure long-term care is covered.
Lost Wages
Reimburses income lost during recovery and accounts for reduced earning capacity if injuries prevent you from returning to work or performing at the same level.
Pain and Suffering
Compensates for physical pain, emotional trauma, and loss of enjoyment in life caused by the accident, including anxiety, depression, or chronic pain.
Property Damage
Covers the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the crash, ensuring you aren’t burdened by these costs.
Wrongful Death Damages
For families who lose a loved one, these damages cover funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering, helping provide financial stability after a tragic loss.
At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we are dedicated to securing the full compensation you deserve, helping you rebuild your life after a truck accident.
How We Prove Negligence in Truck Accident Cases
Proving negligence is the cornerstone of any truck accident case. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., we use a meticulous approach to build a strong case:
- Gathering Evidence
We collect critical evidence, such as:
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- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Reviewing Trucking Records
By examining driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data, we uncover violations of safety regulations. - Consulting Experts
We collaborate with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and trucking industry experts to build a compelling case. - Establishing Legal Violations
Violations of FMCSA regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits or failing to perform proper vehicle maintenance, can strengthen your claim.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
Taking the right steps after a truck accident is critical to protecting your health and legal rights. Here’s how you can ensure the best outcome for your claim:
- Seek Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority after a truck accident. Even if you don’t feel injured, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation will also create a record of your injuries, which is essential for your legal case. - Document the Scene
Gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photos or videos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and your injuries. Collect the names and contact information of witnesses and note details such as the truck’s company name and license plate number. This evidence will be crucial when building your case. - File a Police Report
Contact the police to file an official report. This document provides an unbiased account of the accident and is often a key piece of evidence. When speaking with officers, stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. - Contact Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A.
Truck accident cases are complex, involving multiple parties and regulations. Our experienced Royal Palm Beach truck accident lawyers will handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies. We’ll ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
By acting quickly and following these steps, you can strengthen your case and focus on recovering from your injuries while we handle the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is liable for my truck accident?
Liability may rest with the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or even the manufacturer of defective equipment. We conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years. However, it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence.
Can I recover compensation if I’m partially at fault?
Yes. Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages proportionate to the other party’s fault.
Contact Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A. Today
Truck accidents can leave victims feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. At Gonzalez & Cartwright, P.A., our Royal Palm Beach truck accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Let us be your trusted advocates in Royal Palm Beach. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.