Truck accidents differ from regular car accidents, in that they can have far more devastating results. This is due to the sheer mass and size of trucks, and their increased probability of a rollover accident. Follow along to find out who should be held liable for your rollover accident and how a proficient Pasco County, Florida truck accident lawyer at Wendy Doyle-Palumbo, Esq. can help you take legal action.
What is considered a rollover accident?
Put simply, a rollover accident is one in which a truck flips over on its side or roof. Trucks are more prone to this type of accident because their center of gravity is higher and their weight distribution is uneven. So, any sudden turn, brake, or otherwise collision can cause a tip or flip-over.
Who should be held responsible for my rollover accident?
You must know who is responsible for your rollover accident so that you can take proper legal action against them. One possibility is that the truck driver involved was the at-fault party. Examples of truck driver negligence that can lead to a tip or flip-over include the following:
- Failing to keep enough space between vehicles (i.e., tailgating).
- Failing to give enough time for braking.
- Failing to give enough time for making a sharp turn.
- Failing to drive slowly on winding roads.
- Failing to check large blind spots before proceeding.
Another possibility is that another driver on the road was driving negligently, causing a rollover accident. For example, if a driver recklessly speeds, changes lanes, etc., a truck driver may have to hit the brakes or swerve out of the way and may tip over as a result. Other possible responsible parties include the following:
- A truck employee: they may have unevenly loaded the trailer, making the truck more prone to tipping over.
- A truck employer: they may have scheduled a truck driver after they reached the legal limit of 70 hours within seven consecutive days, making them drive while drowsy or fatigued.
- A truck manufacturer: they may have produced truck parts that were faulty/defective, causing a malfunction that leads to a rollover.
What damages can I recover after my rollover accident?
It may be in your best interest to pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible party of your rollover accident if you require financial compensation to heal. With a successful claim, you may be able to recover economic damages and/or non-economic damages. Examples of both include the following:
- Economic damages:
- Current and future medical bills.
- Current and future lost wages.
- Repair costs for vehicle damages.
- Non-economic damages:
- Physical and mental pain and suffering.
- Diminished quality of life.
- Loss of consortium.
- Disfigurement.
For more information, schedule your initial consultation with a talented Hudson truck accident lawyer today. We await your call.