Little Havana in Miami is a lively neighborhood with diverse cultures, especially Cubans and immigrants from Central and South America. In Little Havana, people have a vibrant community.
The streets are always bustling with activity. There is a variety of restaurants to choose from, and fun music events are frequently held.
Traffic in Little Havana can change based on the time, day, and nearby events, like in any big city. Miami is a busy city with a fast lifestyle, resulting in many car and truck accidents.
Trucks are standard on major highways as they transport goods across the United States. Whether they are light trucks or larger ones, trucks tend to dominate the roads. Even in city neighborhoods like Little Havana, dump and delivery trucks can pose a risk due to their size and weight. Truck drivers must follow safety rules to keep everyone safe, as big trucks can cause serious harm.
However, there are unfortunate accidents where trucks collide with smaller cars, resulting in injuries, concussions, and even fatalities. Truck accidents can be particularly severe, causing extensive damage to vehicles and passengers. Imagine if you or a loved one suffered an injury in a Little Havana truck accident. In that case, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced truck accident lawyer.
At The Ward Law Group, our truck accident lawyers are experts in handling such cases. A skilled lawyer in Little Havana can help you after a truck accident. They will support you in recovering and returning to your everyday life.
Little Havana Truck Accident Statistics
Transportation accidents involving light trucks and large trucks are a significant concern in the United States. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, there were approximately 4.8 million car accidents involving light trucks in 2019. Additionally, there were around 537,000 crashes involving big trucks.
In 2020, the number of large truck crashes decreased slightly to 439,207. These statistics highlight the frequency of accidents involving trucks on U.S. highways.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 182,221 crashes in Florida from January 1 to June 22, 2023. 1,570 fatalities and 116,583 injuries occurred. Of the total crashes, 75,787 caused injuries, while 1,468 deaths resulted.
Common Causes of Little Havana Truck Accidents
Little Havana truck accidents can occur due to numerous factors, considering the unique challenges and risks of operating these large vehicles on the road. In the Miami-Dade area, various recurring factors contribute to unfortunate incidents involving trucks:
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving poses a significant risk of truck accidents. When drivers engage in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems, their attention is diverted from the road, increasing the chances of accidents involving trucks. Given trucks' size and visibility challenges, other drivers must remain attentive and cautious around them.
- Impaired Driving: Operating a truck under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication that causes drowsiness can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Impaired truck drivers pose a grave danger to themselves and other road users. Truck drivers should always prioritize their safety and the safety of others by never driving under the influence.
- Unsafe Distance: Vehicle accidents can occur when other vehicles fail to maintain a safe following distance or do not notice the truck in front of them, leading to rear-end collisions. Due to trucks' enormous size and weight, they require more time and distance to come to a complete stop. Failure to maintain a safe space can result in serious injuries or fatalities in a collision.
- Reckless Driving: Reckless driving, such as speeding, aggressive lane changes, and disregarding traffic laws, significantly contributes to truck accidents. Irresponsible actions by truck drivers are acts of negligence. The high speeds and unpredictable maneuvers associated with reckless driving significantly increase the risk of devastating accidents with these large vehicles.
- Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations: Long hours of driving without sufficient rest can lead to driver fatigue, reducing alertness and reaction times. Truck drivers are subject to federal regulations regarding hours of service to prevent excessive fatigue, but violations can occur.
- Mechanical Failure: Little Havana truck accidents can also occur due to mechanical failures, such as brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, or faulty equipment.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and compromised traction during poor weather conditions can make it challenging for truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.
- Improper Loading or Cargo Shift: Incorrectly loaded cargo or cargo that shifts during transportation can cause a truck to become imbalanced or unstable, leading to accidents. Improperly secured loads can result in cargo spilling onto the road, creating hazards for other vehicles and contributing to accidents that could have been avoided.
- Driving Past Speed Limits: Exceeding recommended speed limits is a dangerous habit and a significant reason for truck accidents.
Steps to Take After a Little Havana Truck Accident
After a truck accident, taking immediate steps to safeguard your well-being and protect your legal rights is essential. Here's a guide on what to do:
- Step One: Safety First: Your well-being should be the top priority. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is essential to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation and necessary treatment. Follow all medical advice and keep records of your medical expenses.
- Step Two: Report the Accident: Contact the local authorities, such as the police, to report the accident. They will arrive at the scene and create an official accident report. This report will document critical details, including the date, time, location, involved parties, and witness statements. The accident report is valuable evidence for insurance purposes and potential legal proceedings.
- Step Three: Gather Information: Gather information from all parties involved in the accident, including their names, contact details, and insurance information. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. These visual records can serve as substantial evidence later.
- Step Four: Seek Legal Assistance: Consulting with a truck accident attorney after an accident can prove beneficial. A skilled truck accident lawyer can offer guidance on your rights and legal options, ensuring you clearly understand the process and potential courses of action. They can help protect your interests when dealing with insurance companies and work to secure fair compensation for your damages.
Liability in Truck Accidents
Determining liability in truck accidents can be intricate due to the involvement of multiple parties, including trucking companies, drivers, and vehicle manufacturers. This complexity is particularly apparent in incidents involving delivery trucks from major carriers like UPS and USPS accidents.
- Trucking Companies: The company that owns or operates the truck may be partially responsible for the accident. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are well-trained and licensed and comply with federal working hours and maintenance procedures regulations. Suppose they fail to hire qualified drivers, maintain their fleet properly, or uphold safety regulations. In that case, they may be accountable for the accident.
- Drivers: Truck drivers play a crucial role in determining responsibility. The driver may be liable for the collision if driving under the influence, distracted, or violating traffic laws. Additionally, they may be responsible if their negligence or fatigue due to extended working hours contributed to the accident.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: Sometimes, a truck's design or manufacturing defect could contribute to the accident. Suppose there is evidence that a vehicle defect, such as faulty brakes or steering, played a role in the accident. In that case, the manufacturer may share in the liability.
- Maintenance Companies: Regular maintenance and inspections ensure trucks operate safely. If the accident resulted from a mechanical failure due to inadequate care, the company responsible for maintaining the car could be liable.
Understanding Florida Truck Accident Laws
Truck accident laws in Florida specify the rules all parties must abide by. In a truck crash, victims are entitled to compensation from their insurance company and the at-fault driver's insurance company.
In Florida, a no-fault state, compensation does not depend on who was at fault. Individuals involved in the accident may be compensated from their personal injury protection to cover medical costs, regardless of who was at fault for the collision. However, there are guidelines to follow, and the amount of coverage might not be enough to pay for everything.
The injured person must seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for payment under their personal injury protection. Failing to do so will result in the loss of this insurance coverage.
What Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Expect?
Economic damages commonly awarded in truck accident cases include:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of earning capacity
- Lost wages
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Property damage
- Non-economic damages encompass aspects such as:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
In some instances, Florida courts may also award punitive damages to truck accident victims. This happens especially when we prove the negligent behavior of the at-fault truck driver. Punitive damages punish and deter reckless behavior to discourage others from doing the same.
Why Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer in Little Havana?
A car accident lawyer in Little Havana helps victims and their families with legal matters after a car accident. Truck accident attorneys utilize their expertise to help victims pursue a just outcome and secure compensation for their losses. Here are the ways they can assist in car accident cases:
- Legal Advice and Counsel: Car accident attorneys offer invaluable legal advice, elucidating the pertinent laws and educating clients about their rights and available legal options.
- Case Evaluation and Investigation: Truck accident attorneys thoroughly assess the circumstances surrounding the car accident to ascertain the strength of the case. Through a meticulous investigation, they gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with experts to establish liability and construct a robust claim.
- Evidentiary Collection: Truck accident attorneys gather all relevant evidence to support the car accident claim. This includes procuring medical records, accident reports, and employment records. They also collect witness statements and seek expert opinions to demonstrate negligence and quantify the extent of damages.
- Negotiation: Truck accident attorneys excel in negotiation, tirelessly advocating for victims to secure a fair settlement with the responsible party or insurance company.
- Trial Representation: Should a fair settlement be unattainable, attorneys are prepared to take the case to trial. They meticulously prepare the case, present compelling evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make persuasive legal arguments in court.
- Handling Paperwork: Car accident claims to entail extensive paperwork and documentation. Attorneys skillfully manage administrative tasks, ensuring all necessary paperwork is accurately completed and submitted within mandated deadlines.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Little Havana
It is essential to hire a car accident attorney in Little Havana to navigate the complexities of the legal process. These skilled professionals build solid cases for victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Contacting The Ward Law Group in Little Havana early on improves the case's chances of success. The attorneys will guide victims and their families through the process, helping in English and Spanish. Don't hesitate to seek help by calling 855-855-DOLOR-55.