Trucking Accident Lawyers in Southwest Florida

Jason B. Goldman • October 21, 2021
Trucking Accident Lawyers in Southwest Florida

Were You Hurt in an 18-Wheeler Wreck?  Call Our Experienced Trucking Accident Lawyer in Southwest Florida for Help

While all motor vehicle accidents could result in serious personal injuries or wrongful death, crashes involving large commercial vehicles like big rigs, tankers, semi-tractor trailers, and other large box trucks are usually more devastating.  This is because large trucks and 18 wheelers are much heavier and generate considerably more momentum in a collision—even at a low speed.  This translates into more force in a collision which could cause crippling damage to a vehicle and catastrophic or life-threatening injuries to an innocent person.  Statistics support this, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report that there are approximately 116,000 people are injured and almost 5,000 people killed in trucking accidents each year in the United States.  If you or a loved one were seriously injured in any type of truck wreck involving an 18 wheeler, ask our experienced trucking accident lawyers in Southwest Florida how we can help you.

Here at Goldman, Tiseo, & Sturges, P.A. , we know the devastating personal injuries that could be caused in a commercial trucking wreck in Florida.  We have represented victims and their families after serious and fatal truck crashes throughout Florida. Whether an accident occurs on I-95, I-75, I-75E, or any other major highways or interstates, our experienced trucking accident lawyers have a proven track record of success.  Call our bodily injury law firm to learn how we can help you during a FREE consultation by dialing (941) 625-6666.

Why Trucking Accidents are Different Than Other Motor Vehicle Crashes

Although a trucking accident has similar characteristics to a “standard” motor vehicle accident, there are many components of a trucking accident which make it far more complex. There are many reasons why, but here are some of the most common:

Trucking Accidents Are Mechanically Different Than Other Motor Vehicles

Semi-tractor trailers and other motor vehicles are mechanically very different.  Besides the obvious fact that commercial vehicles have a lot more wheels, they have a very different way to stop those wheels through an air braking system as opposed to a disc braking system like cars.  This braking system is stronger and most efficient, but there are many more opportunities for it to fail.  Other differences include the steering column, hitching, cargo securement systems, and other unique factors in commercial vehicles.

Federal Regulations

While all motor vehicles must follow the Florida vehicle and traffic laws, there are additional rules for commercial vehicles.  This is because trucking is an interstate business, meaning that it usually takes place over several different states.  As a result, there are many different laws which must be followed in each state.  Some states have very different requirements than others, especially when it comes to safety.

This is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has enacted rules and regulations which serve as the minimum requirements which must be followed by truck drivers and trucking companies no matter what state they are picking up, driving through, licensed in, or delivering to.  These regulations govern many safety aspects of commercial trucking, including:

  • Hours of service (HOS)
  • Driving in inclement weather
  • Alcohol and drug use of drivers
  • Unrealistic delivery schedules
  • Cargo securement
  • Ill or sick drivers
  • Fatigued truck drivers
  • Mandatory accident testing
  • Mechanical inspections and maintenance, and
  • Many other regulations that an experienced trucking accident lawyer in Southwest Florida could use to help support your claim.

 Injuries Are Often More Severe

While any motor vehicle crash could result in catastrophic personal injuries, 18-wheeler wrecks often result in significantly worse personal injuries or death.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Florida

There are many common causes of trucking accidents which could result in liability against a truck driver or trucking company.  Most of these common causes are both avoidable and unnecessary.  Some of the most common examples of trucking accidents include the following:

  • Speeding
  • Fatigued driving/hours of service violations
  • Drunk driving or drugged driving (especially the use of stimulant drugs to stay away like cocaine)
  • Following too closely and rear end collisions
  • Failure to check blind spots properly
  • Improper lane changes or merges
  • Aggressive driving or road rage
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failure to yield
  • Unsafe backing
  • Improper left turn
  • Unsecured cargo
  • Mechanical failures
  • Truck driver inexperience, and
  • Many other common causes of Southwest Florida trucking accidents.

Were You Seriously Injured in a Trucking Wreck?  Call Our Experienced Trucking Accident Lawyers in Southwest Florida for a FREE Consultation

Here at Goldman, Tiseo, & Sturges, P.A. , our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to representing victims and their families after any type of accident. We have a proven track record of success representing clients throughout Florida, including right here in Charlotte County. Call for a FREE consultation by dialing (941) 625-6666 to speak with our experienced team after a trucking accident. Our Southwest Florida Injury Lawyers can help you recover the compensation that you and your family deserve.

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Out-of-State Defendant for a Personal Injury Case

By Jason B. Goldman • September 8, 2025
Getting injured because of someone else’s negligence is stressful enough but what happens if the person or business responsible doesn’t live in Florida? Many people wonder if they can pursue a personal injury claim against someone out-of-state. The answer is yes, but there are some important details to understand. How Out-of-State Laws Affect Your Case When a defendant lives outside Florida, courts may need to consider jurisdiction . Essentially, whether Florida courts have the authority to hear the case. In many situations, if the incident happened in Florida or caused harm here, the court can still proceed. Additionally, different states have different laws regarding personal injury claims, including statutes of limitations, liability rules, and damages. This can affect how a case is filed and what compensation may be available. Steps to Take Consult an Experienced Attorney: A skilled Florida personal injury attorney can determine whether your case can proceed here or if another state’s laws may apply. Gather Evidence: Documentation such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements is crucial, especially if the defendant is out-of-state. Understand Service of Process: The defendant must be formally notified of the lawsuit. Serving someone in another state follows specific legal procedures to ensure the court has jurisdiction.  Consider Legal Strategy: Sometimes, pursuing a claim in Florida is straightforward; other times, filing in the defendant’s home state may be necessary. Your attorney will guide you through the best approach. Protect Your Rights Handling a case with an out-of-state defendant can be complicated, but you don’t have to navigate it alone . The team at GTS Law Firm has experience helping clients pursue personal injury claims, even when the responsible party lives outside Florida. We focus on protecting your rights and working toward the compensation you deserve. Contact GTS Law Firm today to speak with an attorney about your personal injury case. (941) 625-6666

Driving Habit Accidents: How Everyday Choices Can Put You at Risk

By Jason B. Goldman • September 8, 2025
When it comes to staying safe on the road, habits matter. Many car accidents are not caused by reckless behavior or extreme conditions, but by everyday driving habits that increase risk over time. From texting while driving to consistently rolling through stop signs, these seemingly minor behaviors can have serious consequences. Common Driving Habits That Lead to Accidents Distracted Driving – Phones, navigation systems, or even conversations with passengers can take attention away from the road. Distracted driving contributes to thousands of accidents each year. Following Too Closely – Tailgating reduces reaction time and can turn a minor slowdown into a major collision. Speeding in Familiar Areas – Drivers often feel comfortable speeding on roads they know well, underestimating risks like sudden stops or pedestrian crossings. Improper Lane Changes – Not checking mirrors or blind spots increases the chance of side collisions. Rolling Through Stop Signs and Traffic Signals – A habit of ignoring stop signs or lights, even slightly, can lead to intersection accidents. Why Habits Matter Repeated behaviors form patterns. Even safe drivers can develop risky habits over time without realizing it. Insurance companies, accident investigators, and courts often consider a driver’s habits when determining fault or liability after a crash. Protect Yourself and Others Be mindful of your driving habits – Small adjustments can prevent accidents. Avoid distractions – Keep your focus on the road at all times. Maintain safe following distances – Give yourself enough time to react.  Follow traffic laws consistently – Stop signs and lights exist to protect everyone. At GTS Law Firm , we understand how habitual driving behaviors can affect accident outcomes. If you or a loved one has been involved in a collision caused by another driver’s habits, our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights. (941) 625-6666

Back-to-School Safety: Staying Alert in Busy Parking Lots

By Jason B. Goldman • August 13, 2025
As Charlotte County families prepare for the new school year, stores are crowded with parents and children picking up backpacks, notebooks, and other supplies. While the excitement is high, parking lots at big-box stores and shopping centers can become dangerous if drivers and pedestrians aren’t paying attention. Why Parking Lot Safety Matters Parking lots can be high-risk areas, especially during peak back-to-school shopping times. With increased traffic, pedestrians—especially children—can be hard to see, and distractions can lead to accidents. For Drivers: Navigating Parking Lots Safely Slow Down: Keep speeds low and be ready to stop suddenly. Stay Off Devices: Distractions can cause you to miss a pedestrian. Watch for Children: Kids can dart out from between cars without warning. Use Signals: Let others know when you’re turning or backing up. For Parents and Shoppers Hold Hands with Young Children: Keep them close in busy parking areas. Load Carefully: Position carts and children out of moving traffic while loading purchases. Teach Awareness: Remind kids to stop and look before crossing lanes or emerging from between cars. GTS Law Firm: Protecting Families in Charlotte County At GTS Law Firm, we know that even a quick shopping trip can lead to unexpected accidents. If you or your child is injured due to a driver’s negligence in a parking lot, our attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and seek fair compensation. Let’s keep this back-to-school season safe—not just on the roads, but in the parking lots where families gather to prepare for the year ahead. If you’ve been involved in a parking lot incident, contact GTS Law Firm for a consultation.

Back to School Safety: Sharing the Road with Buses and Students in Charlotte County

By Jason B. Goldman • August 13, 2025
As summer winds down and the school year begins, Charlotte County’s roads become busier with school buses, parents dropping off children, and students walking or biking to class. This time of year is a reminder for all drivers to slow down, stay alert, and take extra precautions to protect our community’s youngest members. School Bus Safety School buses are one of the safest modes of transportation for students, but safety depends on drivers following the law: Stop for School Buses: Florida law requires drivers to stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing, regardless of the direction you’re traveling (unless there’s a divided highway with a barrier). Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain at least 20 feet behind a stopped school bus to give children space to cross safely. Be Patient: School bus stops take time as children may be crossing from multiple directions. Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Students walking or biking to school are more vulnerable during early morning and afternoon hours: Watch for Crosswalks: Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and school crossings. Slow Down in School Zones: Observe posted speed limits, which are often 15-20 mph in school areas. Avoid Distractions: Keep phones down and focus on the road, especially during pick-up and drop-off times. Tips for Parents and Students Teach Safe Habits: Remind children to look both ways before crossing the street and to use crosswalks. Bike Safety: Ensure children wear helmets and use bike lanes when available. Visibility Counts: Bright clothing or reflective gear can help drivers see students more easily. \ GTS Law Firm: Advocating for a Safer Community At GTS Law Firm, we are committed to helping keep Charlotte County safe—on and off the road. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen despite best efforts. If you or a loved one is injured due to a driver’s negligence, our experienced attorneys are here to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. As we head into the school year, let’s all do our part to share the road responsibly and make this season a safe one for every student. If you have questions about your rights following a traffic incident, contact GTS Law Firm today for a consultation.