Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, posing a significant danger on the roads. The sheer size and weight of these trucks mean that collisions may result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities for occupants of smaller vehicles. Notably, determining liability in these cases is complex, as it often involves not just the truck driver but also the trucking company and other potential defendants. If you need legal help after a Plantation truck wreck, our 18-wheeler and car accident lawyers at Englander Peebles can take on powerful trucking companies and insurers to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Plantation, FL Can Handle All Types of Crashes
At Englander Peebles, our seasoned Plantation truck accident attorneys have deep legal knowledge to handle all types of tractor-trailer crashes, including:Jackknife Accidents
These occur when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a "V" shape with the cab. This type of accident is often caused by sudden braking or slippery road conditions and can result in multiple-vehicle collisions.Rear-End Collisions
Due to the weight and size of commercial trucks, they require more time and distance to stop. If a truck driver is distracted or following too closely, they may rear-end a smaller vehicle, leading to serious injuries.Underride Accidents
These occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck. The results are often fatal or lead to catastrophic injuries due to the height difference between the vehicles.T-Bone Accidents
This type of accident happens when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, often at intersections. The impact can be devastating, especially for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.Rollover Accidents
Trucks are more prone to rollovers due to their high center of gravity. These accidents can occur if the truck is speeding, makes sharp turns, or the cargo is improperly loaded.Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks require more space to make turns, particularly right turns. If a truck driver misjudges the turn or fails to check blind spots, they can collide with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Liability Insurance Coverage Minimums for Commercial Trucks in Plantation
Florida follows the federal mandate that commercial trucks should carry substantial liability insurance.Non-Hazardous Cargo
- Weight Requirement: Trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $750,000
Oil Transport
- Weight Requirement: Any truck, regardless of weight, transporting oil
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $1 million
Hazardous Substances
- Weight Requirement: Any truck transporting hazardous materials, including explosives, radioactive materials, or certain chemicals
- Minimum Liability Coverage: $5 million