At Ferraro Law, we recognize that truck accidents on our roads today can change lives in an instant. Whether on major roads or minor roads, collisions involving large trucks, tractor trailers, or other commercial vehicles often have devastating consequences for passenger vehicles and smaller vehicles. The trucking industry is central to our economy, moving essential freight, oversized loads, and consumer goods across the country, but when truck drivers act negligently or fail to maintain enough space, the results can be serious injuries or even fatal crashes.
For decades, we’ve assisted truck accident victims, including those in semi truck and big rigs collisions, facing severe injuries, lost wages, and significant medical expenses. Our mission is to provide empathetic counsel, strategic representation, and a clear path toward justice. From evaluating the accident scene and analyzing cargo securement to determining liability among semi truck drivers, trucking company management, and others, our truck accident attorneys navigate every detail of your claim. We serve clients in Florida and beyond, ensuring you move forward with confidence and the support of an experienced law firm.
Understanding Commercial Truck Accidents
Understanding Commercial Truck Accidents
What Are Commercial Truck Accidents?
Commercial truck accidents occur when large commercial truck rigs, such as semi trucks with a tractor and trailer unit, collide with passenger cars or other smaller vehicles. Unlike a typical car accident, these crashes often involve heavy loads and complex configurations like eighteen wheelers and big rigs. The weight disparity and pivot point mechanics between a tractor and trailer make these vehicles harder to stop and maneuver, increasing the likelihood of serious injuries and property damage. A fully loaded commercial truck can take much longer to brake, and a sudden turn or lane change without proper caution can be devastating. When truck drivers speed, or fail to adhere to safety protocols, the risk of large truck crashes soars.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Numerous factors contribute to truck accidents. Semi truck drivers under time constraints may skip breaks or push driving hours, leading to fatigue. Poor maintenance can cause brake failures or tire blowouts. Unsecured cargo may shift, destabilizing the trailer. Oversized loads, inadequate driver training, or even poor road conditions on minor roads or major roads can heighten the chance of a crash. Furthermore, the trucking industry faces regulatory pressures, and when a trucking company prioritizes profits over safety, truck crashes become more likely. Identifying these causes often requires examining black box data, maintenance logs, and inspection reports, allowing a skilled personal injury lawyer to build a strong case.
Who is at Risk?
Any drivers, passengers, or cars sharing the road with large trucks face increased danger. In many cases, passenger vehicles bear the brunt of the impact due to their size disadvantage. Injured victims may suffer severe injuries, permanent disability, or face crash deaths in the worst scenarios. Seeking legal counsel early helps preserve evidence, clarify liability, and protect your interests, especially when confronting powerful insurance carriers backed by the trucking company.
40 Years of fierce representation
40 Years of fierce representation
Ferraro Law has handled truck accident cases caused by mechanical failures, driver errors, or cargo mismanagement. Our history includes working with accident reconstruction experts to understand how a semi truck or dump truck failed to stop in time or why a trailer unit jackknifed.
Drawing on this experience, we anticipate defense tactics and ensure no detail is overlooked. Our track record includes substantial settlements and verdicts addressing medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and intangible harms like emotional distress.
How We Can Help You
How We Can Help You
Assessment & Consultation
Our partnership starts with a free consultation. We review the initial details of your accident, assess potential negligence by semi truck drivers, or a trucking company, and begin outlining a strategy. This early guidance empowers you to make informed decisions as the case unfolds.
Tailored Legal Strategies
We craft a customized approach for your truck accident claim by analyzing black box data, scrutinizing maintenance records, and examining every relevant detail. We consider every angle—cargo stability, driver logs, weather conditions, and whether the load exceeded weight limits. Our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve for serious injuries and long-term consequences.
Ongoing Support & Communication
Recovering from a truck-related accident can be overwhelming. We keep you informed, handle negotiations, and coordinate with experts so you can focus on treatment. Whether dealing with medical providers, sorting through insurance documents, or planning for future care, our attorneys remain by your side.
What We Handle
What We Handle
Ferraro Law represents clients across a wide spectrum of truck accident scenarios:
Commercial Vehicle Accidents
We represent clients injured in collisions with commercial vehicles of all types: semi truck, big rigs, dump trucks, and more. We identify violations—such as a trucking company neglecting safety or semi truck drivers ignoring rest requirements—that led to your accident.
Catastrophic Injuries and Wrongful Death
Large truck crashes often lead to severe injuries like spinal cord trauma, traumatic brain injuries, or fatalities. In wrongful death cases, we help families seek justice and financial stability after crash deaths caused by negligence.
Multiple Liable Parties
Truck accident cases frequently involve multiple defendants. We identify all responsible parties—manufacturers of defective parts, cargo loaders who ignored guidelines, or employers who failed to screen truck drivers—ensuring accountability at every level.
Long-Term and Future Needs
Serious injuries can lead to years of physical therapy, equipment costs, and lifestyle changes. We work with medical and economic experts to project rehabilitation costs, future lost wages, and any ongoing support you may require.
Deciding Whether to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
Deciding Whether to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
After a car accident with a large commercial truck, you may question whether you need legal help. The complexity of truck accident law, multiple liable parties, and the severity of injuries often justify seeking counsel. An experienced personal injury lawyer ensures a thorough investigation, effective negotiations, and a solid strategy to overcome the trucking industry’s legal defenses.
Truck Accidents: Compensation for Victims
Truck Accidents: Compensation for Victims
A successful truck accident claim can provide crucial financial support to help victims and their families manage the long-term consequences of serious injuries or loss caused by the accident.
Compensation may cover:
Medical Expenses
Including the costs of surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and mental health counseling required for recovery and ongoing care.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings
Compensation for time away from work during recovery, as well as diminished earning potential if injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
Property Damage
Coverage for repairs or replacements of your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident.
Pain and Suffering
Acknowledging the emotional distress, trauma, reduced quality of life, and other intangible impacts that result from serious injuries.
While the loss of a life is one that no amount of compensation can truly replace, compensation can help with providing financial support for funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, and other measures of solace for families enduring the loss of a loved one.
What to Look for in a Truck Accident Attorney
What to Look for in a Truck Accident Attorney
When selecting a lawyer to handle a truck accident claim, it’s important to consider more than just basic qualifications. A truly effective attorney combines relevant experience, compassion, resources, and a contingency fee model that eases your financial concerns. Look for someone who:
Specialized Experience in Trucking Cases
Your attorney should have a proven track record handling trucking accidents, including familiarity with federal regulations, commercial driver requirements, and common industry violations. From understanding hours-of-service rules to knowing how to address oversized loads, a skilled lawyer recognizes the unique complexities that set truck accidents apart from standard car crashes.
Technical and Investigative Know-How
Effective representation involves analyzing black box data, inspecting maintenance logs, and interpreting safety inspection reports. Your lawyer should know how to collaborate with accident reconstructionists, mechanical experts, and medical professionals to build a comprehensive case that leaves no detail overlooked.
Empathetic Communication and Client-Focused Service
Beyond legal experience, a compassionate attorney will listen to your story, acknowledge your physical and emotional pain, and explain each step of the legal process without confusing jargon. They maintain open communication, treat you and your family with respect, and help you fully understand the implications of every decision before moving forward.
Ample Resources and Strategic Partnerships
Successful truck accident claims often require substantial investigative work, expert consultations, and potentially going head-to-head with large insurance companies or corporate legal teams. An attorney backed by a well-resourced firm has the necessary tools to handle these challenges, including access to specialists who can strengthen your claim.
Contingency Fee Model
By choosing a lawyer who operates on a contingency fee basis, you pay nothing upfront and only owe fees if they secure compensation on your behalf. This approach allows you to focus on treatment.
What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
Selecting a reputable truck accident law firm isn’t just about credentials—it’s about finding a team that places your needs first and understands the legal process from start to finish. At Ferraro Law, we believe in delivering more than legal advice; we offer genuine support, strategic planning, and practical guidance, making sure you never feel adrift in a complex system.
We understand that a truck accident can disrupt your life in profound ways, from physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial strain. You deserve compassion, understanding, and real solutions. Our team takes the time to learn about your story, understand your challenges, and develop a strategy tailored to your unique needs and goals. This client-focused approach sets us apart, allowing us to build meaningful connections and strong, personalized cases.
Truck accident law involves complex factors such as federal regulations, insurance policies, and accident reconstruction. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling truck accident claims, ensuring no detail is overlooked. From investigating driver negligence to identifying liability in multi-party accidents, we bring the knowledge and skill needed to build a compelling case.
Navigating the legal process or preparing for trial after a truck accident can be overwhelming. We simplify the process by explaining your options, helping you determine whether to pursue a negotiated settlement or proceed to trial. If a trial becomes necessary, our experienced litigators are prepared to fight for compensation that fully reflects your losses, allowing you to move forward with dignity.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure a positive outcome. This eliminates financial barriers, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
We break down the complex aspects of truck accident cases, including liability laws, federal trucking regulations, and insurance claims, so you’re never left in the dark. Our team provides clear, accessible guidance at every step, empowering you to make informed decisions.
Though based in Florida, Ferraro Law represents clients across the United States who have been injured in truck accidents. We combine the resources and reach of a national firm with the personalized care and responsiveness of a local office.
At Ferraro Law, we never want you to feel lost in a massive bureaucracy—our goal is to maintain the support and fierce representation you need during this challenging time.
Client Experiences
Client Experiences
When individuals face the aftermath of serious truck accidents, they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, direction, and unwavering support during a deeply challenging time. Truck accidents often bring extensive medical treatments, mounting expenses, and the emotional strain of rebuilding lives, leaving victims in turmoil. Our attorneys step in with careful investigations to uncover the facts, empathetic counsel to guide clients through complex decisions, and strategic representation to pursue significant settlements. These settlements help cover costly medical bills, provide financial stability, and restore a sense of security when it is needed most. By holding trucking companies, negligent drivers, or manufacturers accountable for their actions, Ferraro Law fits for justice to be served. This enables victims to focus on healing and moving forward with renewed confidence after a devastating accident.
“You not only told us it was going to be okay, you showed us that it’s going to be okay.”
SUZANNE
ASBESTOS & MESOTHELIOMA
5 Stars!! Berta, I want you to know you have the patience of a saint. It is not easy working with the public. I know firsthand. You take your time to explain so that the person understands what you are saying & if there is a problem you get to the bottom of it and come up with the answer as to why – problem solved. You are professional (very). Thank you for your time & energy you spent with me. Hopefully, management will recognize your work ethics. People like you are hard to find. You are an asset to the law firm.
Wishing you all the Best,
Bernardine Brown
Bernadine B.
5 Stars for The Ferraro Law Firm! My experience with Attorney James L. Ferraro Jr. and the entire staff at The Ferraro Law Firm was beyond my expectations. Every time I called my questions were answered and I never felt rushed. I am very grateful for their hard work and care. I would highly recommend them to others.
Linda K.
Just a short note to thank you for all you have done for us, especially for my husband. He had a lot of respect for you and we thank you for your caring ways towards him, not only as your client, but as a person. It will always be appreciated and remembered.
I highly recommend the Ferraro Law Firm and David Jagolinzer for your legal services and representation because they are proven professionals with a history of successfully advocating for their clients in and out of the courtroom. They were really present and there for our family during the most difficult time of our lives not only providing legal guidance but also personally caring about our family. The Ferraro Law Firm and David Jagolinzer are incomparable and I profoundly recommend them for your legal counseling.
E.R.
The Steps Your Lawyer Will Take in a Truck Accident Case
The Steps Your Lawyer Will Take in a Truck Accident Case
Once you decide to hire a truck accident attorney, they will guide you through a structured, step-by-step process:
1
Initial Consultation
Your attorney will begin by discussing the details of your truck accident, reviewing essential information such as police reports, truck driver logs, and maintenance records, and addressing any immediate concerns. This initial meeting helps them understand your priorities, assess the potential value of your claim, and identify unique aspects of your case.
2
Investigation & Evidence Gathering
A detailed investigation will follow, including gathering police reports, analyzing black box data, examining truck maintenance records, and consulting accident reconstruction experts. Your lawyer will also evaluate industry regulations to determine how negligence, such as driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or speeding, may have caused the crash.
3
Claim Preparation & Filing
After gathering evidence, your attorney will prepare and file comprehensive legal documents that clearly outline the specifics of your injuries, damages, and the negligence that contributed to the accident. They make sure all deadlines are met and that your claim is complete and persuasive.
4
Negotiation & Settlement Discussions
Your lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies and other responsible parties, using expert testimonies and compelling evidence to advocate for a settlement that accurately reflects your financial, medical, and emotional needs. They will work to secure an agreement that addresses both immediate and long-term losses.
5
Trial Preparation
(If Necessary)
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare your case for trial. They will organize evidence, work with expert witnesses, and craft strategic arguments to present your claim effectively before a judge or jury.
6
Ongoing Support & Communication
Throughout the process, your attorney will keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide clear guidance at every step. This open communication helps you remain actively involved in your case and are equipped to make confident decisions about your legal journey.
Meet Your Catastrophic Truck Accident Attorneys
Meet Your Catastrophic Truck Accident Attorneys
Learn More About Our Team
In cases involving serious truck accidents, the attorneys at Ferraro Law understand the profound challenges victims face—extensive medical treatments, lost income, and enduring emotional trauma. Our Attorneys bring empathy, persistence, and years of legal experience to every family recovering from these life-altering collisions. Our team understands that achieving fair compensation is not just about covering immediate medical bills but ensuring long-term security, peace of mind, and a stable future for you and your loved ones. By diligently investigating the crash, identifying responsible parties, and negotiating firmly with insurers or litigating in court, we strive to deliver results that genuinely support your ongoing needs.
Nikki Nicole Hurtado
Nikki focuses on product liability and environmental toxic tort cases, bringing strong trial skills and a deep commitment to community advocacy. Known for her clarity in the courtroom and collaborative style, she represents clients with precision, purpose, and heart.
James L. Ferraro Jr.
James handles high-stakes injury and environmental cases, focusing on toxic torts, product liability, and public impact litigation. He leads the firm’s national MDL work and has helped recover tens of millions of dollars for cities, families, and individuals harmed by corporate negligence.
Ignacio J. Segurola
Ignacio brings over 20 years of trial experience in serious injury and wrongful death cases, including medical malpractice and catastrophic crashes. A longtime advocate in South Florida courts and communities, he’s known for his sharp litigation style and results-driven approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do truck accidents differ from regular car accidents?
Truck accidents often involve large trucks, complex regulations, and extensive damage. Heavy loads, longer stopping distances, and the pivot point between tractor and trailer make controlling a semi truck more challenging. The severity of injuries and property damage is often greater, and determining fault may require analyzing maintenance logs, driver training records, and cargo securement.
02.
How long do truck accident cases take?
Timelines vary. Complex truck accident cases with multiple liable parties and severe injuries may take longer to resolve. Gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and potentially going to trial adds time. We keep you informed throughout the process.
03.
What if I’m partially at fault for the accident?
Comparative negligence laws vary by state. Even if you share some responsibility, you may still recover a portion of damages. We’ll discuss how this affects your claim and strategize accordingly.
04.
Will I have to go to court?
Many truck crashes settle before trial, but if a fair agreement isn’t reached, we’re prepared to advocate for you in court. Our attorneys build strong cases so you can negotiate from a position of strength.
05.
How can I afford a truck accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we secure compensation, reducing financial pressure while you focus on treatment.
06.
What kind of evidence is crucial in truck accident cases?
Black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and cargo loading documentation help establish fault. Expert witnesses may testify about mechanical failures, proper driving techniques, or oversized loads mishandling.
07.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide, collaborating with local counsel when needed. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims ensures we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
have more questions?
Glossary of key Terms
glossary of key terms
Tractor Trailer
A combination of a powered truck (tractor) and one or more towed trailers used for transporting goods. Poor load distribution, faulty coupling, or inadequate maintenance of brakes and tires can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Commercial Vehicles
Trucks and other motor carriers used for business freight transport. Commercial vehicles include delivery vans, box trucks, and long-haul rigs. Accidents involving these vehicles may raise complex liability issues, as multiple parties—drivers, trucking companies, freight brokers, or maintenance crews—could share responsibility.
Hours of Service (HOS)
Federal regulations limiting how many hours a commercial driver can operate without rest. Violations of HOS rules can lead to driver fatigue, increasing the risk of crashes. Proving HOS breaches can help establish liability if driver fatigue played a role in the accident.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A specialized license required for individuals operating large commercial vehicles. Drivers must meet stringent qualifications and training requirements. If a driver lacks the proper CDL or training, this can support claims of negligence and unsafe operation.
Cargo Securement
Regulations on loading, balancing, and securing freight on trailers. Improper cargo securement can lead to load shifts, increasing the risk of rollovers, jackknifing, or lost loads, often pointing to negligence by the loading crew or trucking company.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable weight of a commercial vehicle. Exceeding GVWR impairs braking and handling, raising crash risks and often proving key in establishing liability.
Jackknifing
A dangerous event where a trailer swings towards the tractor, forming a “V” shape. Jackknifing often happens when brakes lock or cargo shifts, causing loss of control. It can lead to multi-vehicle collisions and severe injuries.
Underride
An accident where a smaller vehicle slides under a truck’s trailer, often causing severe injuries or fatalities. Underride guards and other safety features can help prevent or reduce the severity of these crashes.
Rollover
A truck rollover occurs when a truck tips onto its side or roof. Factors include speeding, abrupt maneuvers, imbalanced loads, or weak road shoulders. Rollover accidents often cause severe injuries and extensive property damage.
Load Shift
When cargo inside a trailer moves unexpectedly, altering the truck’s center of gravity. Load shifts can cause sudden loss of control, making it harder for drivers to steer or brake effectively increasing the risk of collisions and rollovers.
Service Brakes
The primary brakes of a commercial truck. Malfunctioning or poorly maintained service brakes can contribute to longer stopping distances and rear-end collisions, especially at highway speeds.
Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
A tool mandated by FMCSA to record driving hours electronically, replacing manual logbooks. ELDs help ensure compliance with hours-of-service rules, preventing driver fatigue-related accidents.
Cargo Manifest / Bill of Lading
A document detailing the cargo, its weight, and destination. Reviewing it can reveal if the freight was overweight, improperly loaded, or hazardous—factors that can increase accident severity.
Blind Spots (No-Zones)
Large areas around a truck that are not visible to the driver. Monitoring blind spots is essential for safe lane changes and merging, as neglecting them often leads to sideswipe or lane-change collisions.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations
Federal rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration governing hours of service, drug and alcohol testing, vehicle maintenance, and other safety-related issues. Noncompliance can strengthen arguments for negligence.
Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)
Some commercial vehicles transport dangerous substances. Spills or leaks caused by accidents can amplify injury severity and complicate cleanup efforts. Hazmat regulations require special handling and training.
Mechanical Failures
Defects in brakes, steering, tires, or coupling devices can cause catastrophic truck accidents. Identifying mechanical failures and linking them to negligent maintenance can help establish liability.
Fleet Maintenance Records
Documents showing how often trucks and trailers were inspected, repaired, and serviced. Poor maintenance or skipped inspections can point to company negligence and support claims of unsafe operation.
Accident Reconstruction
The process of analyzing crash data, skid marks, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions to determine how an accident occurred. Reconstruction experts help attorneys prove fault in truck accidents.
Roadside Inspections
Spot checks by authorities to ensure commercial vehicles meet safety standards. Violations uncovered during these inspections can serve as valuable evidence in establishing trucking company negligence.
What's Next?
what’s next?
If you or a loved one is navigating the challenging aftermath of a truck accident, including burdensome medical expenses and substantial lost wages, Ferraro Law is here to provide dedicated support. During a complimentary consultation, we carefully listen to your story, understand your unique circumstances, and outline a comprehensive plan for pursuing justice and the compensation necessary to rebuild your life.
Attorney Referral
attorney referral program
Ferraro Law is nationally renowned for achieving significant settlements in complex personal injury cases. Firms across the country refer clients to Ferraro Law, recognizing our commitment to exceptional service, groundbreaking results, and readiness to tackle cases others find too risky or costly.
