Truck Accident Attorney in St. Augustine

Every case is different. But in all personal injury claims, there are a few elements that we look at to see if you might have a case. We check to see if:

• There were damages. Personal injury lawsuits are filed to recover “damages.” These include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An injury must have significant associated costs to qualify for a lawsuit, which vary by state. Our St. Augustine-based lawyers have the local knowledge to navigate Florida’s legal landscape effectively, ensuring your case is handled with precision and an understanding of regional laws and court systems.  
• Someone else was at fault. To get compensation from someone else’s insurance company, they must have acted negligently in a way that caused or contributed to your injuries.
• There’s enough insurance coverage. Personal injury lawsuits are usually filed against insurance companies, not individuals. Those responsible must have enough insurance coverage to cover the injured person’s medical expenses or fully compensate them for their injuries.

If you are unsure if you have a case, contact our team of lawyers in St. Augustine. We're here to help.

If you’re wondering what to do after being hit by a semi-truck, your priority should be safety and seeking medical attention. 

Move your vehicle out of traffic and to a safe location if possible. Then, call 911. Report the accident and request medical assistance for anyone injured. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation helps document your condition for your claim. Having professionals tend to your injuries also creates a medical record that can be used as evidence in court.

Collect information from the truck driver, including their name, contact details, insurance information, trucking company name, and license plate number.

While a photograph of a license plate can be helpful in many car accidents, commercial truck accidents often require additional information. A truck's license plate number may not be enough to identify the driver, as many trucks are leased through third parties. Instead, take a photo of the driver’s door where the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) number is displayed. This identifier allows your legal team to access key details, including the driver’s name, address, insurance information, and the trucking company’s identity.

Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be helpful for your case. You can also get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident.

Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, such as “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you,” as they could be used against you later.

As the final step, contact Morgan & Morgan. Our St. Augustine team can provide you with a free case evaluation so you can learn more about your legal options and take your first steps toward moving forward with your life.

Personal injury laws establish specific timeframes (statutes of limitations) within which victims must file a lawsuit. For truck accident claims, these deadlines vary by state, typically ranging from one to four years from the accident date. Consulting with one of our St. Augustine attorneys as soon as possible is crucial, as missing the filing deadline could prevent you from obtaining any compensation.

The statute of limitations is a legally defined time limit within which someone must file a lawsuit, and this time frame varies depending on the type of case and state.

For truck accident claims, the statute of limitations generally requires filing a claim within a certain period after the accident. Filing within this period is essential to retain your right to pursue compensation.

It’s advisable to consult with a St. Augustine-based attorney as soon as possible after the incident, as gathering evidence and building a strong case can take time. Your attorney can also help ensure all documents are filed accurately and on time.

At Morgan & Morgan, our St. Augustine-based team of experienced commercial truck attorneys has successfully represented countless clients in similar situations, securing millions in compensation. As the largest personal injury law firm in the country with over 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we have the resources, knowledge, and dedication to fight for your rights. 

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to pay unless we win your case. Morgan & Morgan believes justice should be accessible to all, so our motto is the Fee Is Free™—you only pay if we win.

At Morgan & Morgan, we operate on a contingency fee basis, so our services have no upfront costs. That’s right—The Fee Is Free™, meaning you only pay if we successfully recover compensation for your case. Your attorney’s fee is a percentage of the amount awarded, and you won’t owe anything unless we win. Here’s an overview of how this process typically works:

Contingency Fee Arrangement

• No Win, No Fee: With a contingency fee, the lawyer only gets paid if you recover compensation through a settlement or court verdict.

Free Consultations

• You can call Morgan & Morgan, St. Augustine, anytime for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options, with no obligation to work with us.
• From there, Morgan & Morgan’s truck accident lawyers offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case, explain the legal process, and discuss the fee structure.

Several factors influence the total cost of hiring a truck accident lawyer, including:

• Case Complexity: Truck accidents can involve multiple liable parties (e.g., trucking company, driver, manufacturer), which may require more time and resources to investigate.
• Going to Trial vs. Settlement: Cases that go to trial generally require more preparation, court filings, and attorney time, which may result in a higher percentage fee.
• Lawyer’s Experience and Reputation: More experienced or well-known attorneys may charge higher contingency fees due to their track record of success and expertise in handling complex cases.

Advantages of a Contingency Fee

• No Financial Risk: The contingency fee arrangement allows injured individuals to pursue compensation without worrying about upfront legal costs.
• Incentive for Success: Since the lawyer’s fee depends on the outcome, they are motivated to secure the highest possible settlement or court award for you.

Victims of a St. Augustine truck accident may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to injury and any future earning potential if the injury impacts your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Monetary compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injury on your relationship with your spouse or family.
• Punitive Damages: In extreme negligence or recklessness cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.

Once you retain truck accident legal representation, your lawyer can evaluate the types of damages that pertain to your case and what fair compensation may look like. Morgan & Morgan, St. Augustine, offers free consultations for truck accident cases so you can learn more about your legal options after a truck accident injury.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation.

Hiring one of our St. Augustine truck crash lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan, St. Augustine, you don’t just hire a lawyer; you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Your case will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team that includes a primary attorney overseeing your case and ensuring you receive personalized attention throughout the process.

After your initial consultation, your care team will schedule regular meetings to discuss your case, provide updates, and prepare you for any upcoming proceedings. We are committed to maintaining open lines of communication and keeping you informed every step of the way.

These meetings can be handled in person, virtually, and by phone, depending on your case’s requirements and your ability to do so.

The average settlement for a truck accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The severity of your injuries is the most significant factor in determining a settlement amount. Cases involving minor injuries, such as whiplash or bruising, may result in smaller settlements, while severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures, can lead to much more substantial settlements.

Your medical bills play a crucial role in calculating your settlement. This includes costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any ongoing or future medical care. The higher your medical expenses, the larger your settlement is likely to be.

Fault in a St. Augustine truck accident is determined by examining evidence to establish which party’s negligence caused the accident. Key factors include:

• Police Reports: Official reports provide initial assessments of fault based on the responding officer’s observations.
• Eyewitness Testimonies: Statements from witnesses can provide insights into how the accident occurred.
• Accident Scene Analysis: Photos, video footage, and forensic analysis of skid marks or debris can help reconstruct the accident.
• Truck Driver Logs: These logs can reveal if the driver violated hours-of-service regulations or was fatigued.
• Vehicle Inspections: Maintenance records and vehicle inspections can uncover mechanical failures or improper maintenance.
• Black Box Data: Most trucks have data recorders that capture speed, braking, and other key details leading up to the crash.

Fault determination can be complex, often involving multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers. A commercial truck accident attorney can help you gather this evidence and create an argument in your favor.

The legal process of a St. Augustine truck accident claim can be complex, involving multiple parties and extensive investigation. It usually begins with an initial consultation with your lawyer. Morgan & Morgan’s truck accident attorneys offer a free consultation where they evaluate your case, explain your rights, and outline the legal process.

During this meeting, you’ll provide details about the accident, your injuries, and any potential evidence (police reports, photos, witness information). The St. Augustine lawyer will assess whether you have a viable case and discuss the potential for compensation.

Truck accident claims often require in-depth investigations, as multiple parties may be involved. Your attorney will gather evidence, which may include:

• Police reports and accident scene photos
• Driver’s logbooks (hours of service records)
• Vehicle maintenance records
• Truck’s black box data (to see speed, braking patterns, etc.)
• Surveillance footage, if available
• Witness statements
• Medical records documenting your injuries

Depending on the complexity of the case, your lawyer may work with accident reconstruction experts, medical experts, or trucking industry experts to establish liability.

Your St. Augustine attorney will work to identify all parties potentially liable for the truck accident. These may include the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, or even the cargo loaders. Your lawyer will determine who is responsible for the accident and take the necessary steps to file claims against those parties.

Once your attorney has gathered enough evidence, they will draft and send a demand letter to the insurance companies or at-fault parties, outlining the facts of the case, your injuries, and the compensation you are seeking.

Your St. Augustine attorney will file a formal lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached during negotiations. This initiates the litigation phase and sets a timeline for the legal process.

Throughout the process, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies representing the driver, trucking company, or other responsible parties. Insurers may try to offer a lower settlement, but your attorney will fight for fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The vast majority of truck accident claims are settled out of court. If the insurance company offers a reasonable settlement, your lawyer will discuss it with you and advise whether to accept or continue negotiating.

If the case goes to court, both sides enter the discovery phase, where they exchange evidence, documents, and witness information. This phase often includes:

• Depositions (sworn statements taken from witnesses, the truck driver, and possibly you)
• Interrogatories (written questions exchanged between parties)
• Expert testimonies

Attorneys may file motions to dismiss certain claims or suppress specific evidence during this period.

If a settlement isn’t reached, your case will proceed to trial. During the trial, your attorney will present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments to prove liability and damages. The defense (trucking company or driver’s lawyer) will also present their case. After both sides present their case, the judge or jury will decide who is liable and how much compensation should be awarded.

A settlement is often reached before the case goes to trial. Your St. Augustine attorney will review any settlement offers with you to ensure they cover all of your current and future needs.

If your case goes to trial, the jury or judge will issue a verdict on who is liable and the amount of damages. The liable parties must pay the awarded compensation if you win the case.

The legal process for a truck accident claim involves consulting with an attorney, gathering evidence, negotiating with the parties at fault, and, if needed, taking the case to court. Each step is focused on helping you obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses. An experienced St. Augustine attorney will guide you through this process and advocate for your rights every step of the way.

Truck accidents tend to be more complex because they often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, and cargo loaders. Furthermore, trucking companies must comply with federal regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), adding additional legal complexity to these cases. 

The severity of injuries and the higher stakes involved in compensation claims also contribute to the complexity. Big trucks can cause much more damage than the common small vehicle fender-bender.

A truck accident lawyer at Morgan & Morgan, St. Augustine, can guide you through the complex legal process so that you can focus on recovering and moving on with your life.

Common causes of truck accidents in St. Augustine include:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often face pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to fatigue and decreased reaction times.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using in-cab technology can distract drivers from the road.
• Speeding: Trucks require longer stopping distances, and speeding increases the risk of collisions.
• Improper Loading: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause the truck to tip or lose control.
• Mechanical Failures: If not properly maintained, faulty brakes, tires, or other mechanical issues can lead to accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug use impairs a driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely.

Yes, you can often sue the trucking company if the driver was at fault for the accident. This is possible due to a legal principle called vicarious liability, which holds employers responsible for their employees' actions while performing job-related duties. In the case of a truck accident, the trucking company may be held liable for the driver’s negligence or recklessness. 

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior)

Respondeat Superior is a legal doctrine that holds employers liable for their employee's negligent actions as long as the employee was acting within the scope of their employment when the accident occurred.

In a St. Augustine truck accident, if the driver was performing their job duties (e.g., delivering goods, following a company route), the trucking company can be held liable for the driver’s actions, even if the company itself wasn’t directly at fault.

Negligence of the Trucking Company

In some instances, the trucking company may share direct responsibility for the accident, which can strengthen the case against them. Common reasons include:

• Negligent Hiring Practices: If the company employed an unqualified or unsafe driver, such as someone with a poor driving history or insufficient training, they may be liable for negligent hiring practices.
• Poor Training: The company may be held accountable if it failed to properly train the driver, putting others on the road at risk.
• Improper Truck Maintenance: Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles to ensure safe operation. If poor maintenance leads to a mechanical failure that causes an accident, the company can be held responsible.
• Violation of Hours-of-Service Regulations: Federal regulations limit the hours a truck driver can operate without rest. If the company pressures or allows a driver to exceed these limits, it may be liable for contributing to the accident.

Independent Contractors vs. Employees

Sometimes, trucking companies argue that the driver is an independent contractor, not an employee, to avoid liability. However, St. Augustine courts may still hold the company responsible depending on their control over the driver’s actions, such as setting routes and dictating work schedules.

Determining whether the driver was truly an independent contractor or an employee may involve investigating the terms of the driver’s employment and the company’s role in overseeing their work.

Other Liable Parties

In addition to the trucking company and driver, other parties may be liable for the accident, such as:

Truck Manufacturers: If a mechanical failure caused by a defect contributed to the accident, the truck’s manufacturer could be liable.

Cargo Loaders: If improperly loaded cargo caused the accident, the company responsible for loading the truck could also be held liable.