Truck Accident Lawyers Serving Florida
Commercial truck accidents are among the most catastrophic events on American roads. The average fully loaded 18-wheeler weighs 80,000 pounds — 20 to 30 times more than a passenger vehicle. The kinetic energy in these collisions (calculated as ½mv²) produces forces that overwhelm passenger vehicle safety systems, making catastrophic injuries and fatalities disproportionately common.
What makes these cases uniquely complex is the web of vicarious liability. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, the trucking company is liable for its driver's negligence within the scope of employment. Claims for negligent entrustment arise when a carrier entrusts a vehicle to an unqualified driver. Negligent hiring and retention theories apply when carriers fail to screen drivers with prior violations. The cargo loading company, vehicle manufacturer, and maintenance provider may share liability under joint and several liability principles — all governed by FMCSA regulations in 49 CFR Parts 390-399.
Bond Legal has the resources to take action. We immediately issue spoliation letters to preserve Event Data Recorder (EDR) downloads, Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data under 49 CFR Part 395, driver qualification files (DQ files) under 49 CFR §391.51, post-accident drug and alcohol test results under §382.303, and vehicle maintenance records required under 49 CFR §396.3. Destruction of this evidence after a preservation demand triggers adverse inference instructions at trial — a powerful tool for establishing negligence.
In Florida, As of HB 837 (2023), Florida switched from pure comparative fault to a modified system — you cannot recover if you are 51% or more at fault. The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is 2 years (Fla. Stat. § 95.11(3)(a)). Bond Legal's truck accident lawyers are licensed and experienced in Florida courts, ready to advocate for the compensation you deserve.
