Tampa 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

When an 18-wheeler, also known as a semi-truck or tractor-trailer, collides with a smaller vehicle, the consequences can be catastrophic. The sheer size and weight of these trucks make accidents involving them much more severe compared to regular car accidents. An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average car weighs only around 4,000 pounds. This significant difference in weight means that the force of impact in an 18-wheeler accident is much greater, causing more severe injuries and extensive property damage. If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Tampa, the emotional, physical, and financial toll can be overwhelming. Such an event can leave you feeling lost and unsure of where to turn for help. At Franchi Law, we understand the challenges of these types of accidents. Our experienced team of Tampa 18-wheeler accident lawyers is here to advocate for your rights.

Don’t navigate this difficult journey alone. Contact Franchi Law today, and let us guide you through every step of the process.

Why Choose Franchi Law’s Tampa 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

Trucking companies and their insurers aggressively defend against claims, making it critical to have a skilled attorney on your side.

At Franchi Law, we understand the complexities of truck accident litigation and are dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Extensive Experience in 18-Wheeler Accident Cases

Truck accidents are far more complicated than standard car crashes. With federal trucking regulations, corporate liability, and multiple parties involved, navigating these cases requires an attorney with specific experience in truck accident claims.

Franchi Law has successfully represented numerous truck accident victims, securing maximum compensation for their medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.

Aggressive Investigation & Evidence Collection

To build a strong case, we conduct a thorough investigation by:

• Analyzing black box data from the truck to determine speed, braking, and driver actions before the crash.
• Examining logbooks and driving records to check for violations of hours-of-service laws.
• Reviewing maintenance records to identify mechanical failures.
• Working with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability.

By gathering critical evidence early, we ensure that trucking companies and insurers cannot hide or manipulate key details of the case.

Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

Unlike regular car accidents, multiple parties can cause an 18-wheeler crash, including:

• The truck driver for reckless or negligent driving.
• The trucking company for failing to maintain safe practices.
• Cargo loaders for improperly securing freight.
• Truck manufacturers for defective parts or equipment failures.

At Franchi Law, we meticulously identify all liable parties to maximize your financial recovery.

Fighting Against Big Insurance Companies

Trucking companies have powerful insurance providers that will try to deny or minimize your claim.

Their adjusters may:

• Offer lowball settlements that fail to cover your full damages.
• Try to shift blame onto you to reduce their payout.
• Delay or deny claims, hoping you’ll give up or accept less than your claim is worth.

We can take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. Our aggressive negotiation tactics and litigation experience ensure you are never pressured into an unfair settlement.

No Upfront Costs – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

At Franchi Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no legal fees upfront. We only get paid when we secure compensation for you. Our commitment is to fight for justice and the maximum financial recovery for our clients.

Personalized Attention & Client-Focused Representation

Unlike large firms, where cases are handed off to paralegals or junior associates, at Franchi Law, you receive personalized legal representation from start to finish. We prioritize clear communication, regular updates, and tailored legal strategies that align with your needs.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in an 18-wheeler accident in Tampa, don’t face the trucking companies alone. Let Franchi Law be your advocate, ensuring you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. Call us for a free consultation today, and let us fight for your rights.

Our Tampa office is conveniently located south of I-275 and northeast of Beach Park at:

4100 West Kennedy Boulevard

Suite 300

Tampa, FL 33606

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tampa

Awareness of the common types of 18-wheeler accidents can help you understand how your accident occurred and who may be liable. Here are some of the most frequently occurring types of 18-wheeler accidents in Tampa:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck driver applies the brakes suddenly, causing the trailer to swing out at an angle and block multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents can involve multiple vehicles and lead to significant property damage and severe injuries.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents often occur due to high speeds, improper cargo loading, or sharp turns. The 18-wheeler’s high center of gravity makes it more susceptible to rolling over, especially when the truck driver fails to follow proper safety protocols.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to the longer stopping distance of 18-wheelers, rear-end collisions involving these trucks are especially dangerous. The force of impact in these accidents can cause severe injuries and even fatalities.

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle gets trapped underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.

Tire Blowout Accidents

A sudden loss of control can occur when an 18-wheeler experiences a tire blowout. The truck driver may struggle to maintain control of the vehicle, leading to a collision with other vehicles on the road.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have large blind spots, also known as no-zone areas, where the driver can’t see. When truckers fail to clear these blind spots, the risk of side-impact collisions increases.

Wide Turn Accidents

18-wheelers require a wider turning radius compared to smaller vehicles. When a truck swings left before making a right turn, it can trap vehicles in its path, leading to accidents and injuries.

T-Bone Collisions

T-bone collisions involving 18-wheelers often occur at intersections when a truck driver runs a red light or fails to yield. The truck’s sheer size and weight can result in devastating consequences for the other vehicle’s occupants involved in the collision.

If you or a loved one has been involved in one of these accidents, seek the assistance of a qualified Tampa 18-wheeler accident attorney from our firm to protect your rights and pursue compensation for your damages.

18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

Due to the size and weight of 18-wheelers, injuries resulting from these accidents are often severe or life-threatening. The force of an 18-wheeler accident can cause extensive damage to the human body.

Common injuries associated with these accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions: Head injuries are common due to the force of impact and the potential for the head to strike objects inside the vehicle.
• Spinal cord injuries: The impact of an 18-wheeler accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or long-term disabilities.
• Multiple fractures and crush injuries: The force of a collision with an 18-wheeler can cause multiple fractures and crush injuries, requiring extensive medical intervention.
• Severe burns and lacerations from vehicle fires: In some cases, an 18-wheeler accident can result in vehicle fires, causing severe burns and lacerations to the victims.
• Internal organ damage and internal bleeding: The impact of the collision can cause damage to internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions.
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: Even without direct impact, the force of an 18-wheeler accident can cause whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and emotional trauma: The emotional toll of an 18-wheeler accident can have long-lasting effects, leading to PTSD and other psychological trauma.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation and may result in disabilities or ongoing medical needs.

Consulting our Tampa 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help ensure you receive the necessary compensation to cover your medical expenses and the pain and suffering resulting from the accident.

What Are 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries Worth?

The value of an 18-wheeler accident claim depends on:

• Medical expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and any other medical treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost earnings and loss of future earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the earnings you lost and your diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: You may recover compensation for the physical and emotional pain endured due to the accident and subsequent injuries.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
• Punitive damages: In cases where the trucking company or driver acted recklessly or intentionally, punitive damages may punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

The exact worth of a claim varies depending on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, the extent of medical expenses, and the long-term consequences of your injuries. Insurance policy limits and shared liability are additional factors that can affect the amount of compensation you receive.

Where Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Occur in Tampa?

18-wheeler accidents can occur in various areas throughout Tampa, with some locations experiencing a higher frequency of accidents.

These high-risk areas and highways include:

• I-275 and I-4 Interchange: This interchange sees high congestion and merging trucks, increasing the risk of accidents.
• U.S. Highway 41 and U.S. Highway 301: These highways experience heavy commercial truck traffic, which increases the likelihood of accidents.
• State Road 60: As a major freight route, State Road 60 is prone to accidents involving 18-wheelers due to multiple truck stops along the route.
• Port of Tampa Bay area: The increased movement of trucks near warehouses and shipping facilities in the Port of Tampa Bay area creates a higher risk of accidents.

Additionally, factors such as traffic congestion, construction zones, and truck routes can further increase the likelihood of 18-wheeler accidents in Tampa.

Fighting the Insurance Company After Sustaining 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

Dealing with insurance companies after sustaining injuries in an 18-wheeler accident can be challenging.

Truck accident claims differ significantly from regular car accident claims. Here’s why:

Higher Policy Limits

Insurance policies for large trucks often have higher coverage limits to account for the potential damages associated with these accidents. Consequently, insurers representing the trucking companies may refuse to pay claims or offer full compensation.

Multiple Liable Parties

Truck accident claims frequently involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking companies, and manufacturers of defective truck components. Identifying all the responsible parties and establishing liability can be challenging tasks that require experience and skill.

Federal Trucking Regulations

Federal regulations govern the standards and practices of the trucking industry. Non-compliance with these regulations can contribute to accidents and impact liability.

A Tampa 18-wheeler accident lawyer understands these regulations and can leverage any violations to strengthen your case.

Given these unique challenges, it is in your best interest to have a seasoned Tampa 18-wheeler accident attorney from our firm on your side. They have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf and ensure that the insurance company does not take advantage of you during the claims process.

What Should You Do After Being Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident?

After an 18-wheeler accident, to protect your rights and strengthen your legal case:

• Continue with Necessary Follow-Up Medical Appointments: Consistent and continuing medical treatment helps prove the severity of your injuries and the ongoing need for medical care.
• Keep Detailed Records: Save and organize all relevant documents and evidence related to your accident and injuries. It includes medical bills, lost earnings statements, accident photos, and repair estimates. These records help demonstrate the damages and losses you have suffered.
• Consult a Tampa 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer: It is imperative to contact a qualified truck attorney as soon as possible after the accident. A knowledgeable attorney from our firm can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Tampa 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer from Franchi Law Today 

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in an 18-wheeler accident in Tampa, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Florida law imposes deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing truck accident claims. Acting quickly is essential to protect your rights and ensure you have enough time to build a strong case.

At Franchi Law, we offer a free consultation to evaluate the details of your case and help you understand your legal options. Our reputable Tampa 18-wheeler accident lawyers are here to maximize your compensation and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us at (813) 800-4529 for your free, no-obligation consultation.