Distracted driving can be just as dangerous—and even as deadly—as drunk driving, especially if the driver is operating a big rig weighing tens of thousands of pounds. Unfortunately, taking effective legal action over distracted driving truck accidents in Pensacola can be difficult, largely because only a few forms of distracted driving are expressly prohibited by Florida state law or federal trucking regulations.
If you have been hurt in a wreck of this nature, getting help from an experienced 18-wheeler crash attorney will make a world of difference in your chances of securing a favorable case result and getting paid what you deserve. A legal representative from Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon can work tirelessly on your behalf to collect relevant evidence, establish civil fault for your injuries, and demand appropriate compensation for your losses.
Building a Strong Case Against a Distracted Truck Driver
Every driver on public Florida roads has the same duty of care to act lawfully and responsibly behind the wheel. Driving while distracted, whether by a cell phone, food or drink, a map, or GPS, counts as a breach of that duty if it leads to an otherwise preventable crash. However, with the exception of texting while driving, distracted driving is not a traffic offense that a police officer can cite a trucker for or include in an accident report after a truck crash in Pensacola.
For this reason, it often falls to the individuals injured in wrecks like this to prove that they were hurt specifically because a truck driver was distracted behind the wheel. A skilled attorney can play a vital role in collecting, preserving, and making effective use of evidence like:
- Witness testimony
- Data from a truck’s black box
- Subpoenaed cell phone records
- Surveillance/dashboard camera recordings
Contact Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon to set up an initial case review.
Recovering for Short- and Long-Term Losses
Legal counsel can also provide essential help with identifying, assigning a fair financial value to, and proactively seeking compensation for every past and future loss that a distracted driving truck collision in Pensacola will result in, including things like:
- Lost enjoyment/quality of life
- Psychological trauma and distress
- Physical pain and discomfort from injuries
- Lost work wages, benefits, or earning capacity
- Medical expenses, including expected costs of future rehabilitative and maintenance care
- Personal property damage, including vehicle repair/replacement costs and related expenses like rental car fees
Fortunately, unlike some other states, Florida state law does not place caps on the maximum amount of compensation you can demand for the effects of a truck wreck.
Discuss Your Legal Options After a Distracted Driving Truck Accident With a Pensacola Attorney
Getting hit by a distracted driver can be traumatic and potentially life-altering, no matter where the wreck happens or who is involved. When the distracted driver is behind the wheel of a commercial truck, though, the outcome of a collision can be exponentially more severe.
You have a right to seek fair financial restitution from everyone who played a role in causing your injuries through a distracted driving truck accident in Pensacola. Call Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon today to learn what our team of professionals can do for you.
