Law Offices of Theodore H. Enfield, P.A.

Truck Accidents: Why Hire a Lawyer

Posted on June 28, 2020 by Andrew Enfield

There are very specific rules about operating a big rig and other types of large commercial trucks. Anyone involved in an accident that includes one of those vehicles should immediately hire a lawyer that has experience in that type of litigation. The injuries sustained during an accident involving a truck can be catastrophic for the victim and result in permanent disability or even death.

Regulations for commercial trucks are set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the state of Florida. During investigations into truck accidents, it’s often discovered that the trucking company was in violation of regulations and can be held accountable. The following are the most common violations.

Cargo Overload/Misload

Commercial trucks have very specific limits about the weight they can carry, along with how the weight must be distributed and how the cargo is secured.

Drunk/Drugged Driving

Drivers of commercial trucks are held to a higher standard when it comes to drugs and alcohol. A driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .04 percent will be considered to be in violation of DUI laws.

Hours of Operation

Truck drivers have limits on the number of hours they can operate the vehicle each day and per week. The limits are in place to prevent the fatigue that can lead to errors in judgment and reduce reaction times. However, time is money for truckers and they are often tempted to exceed those limits.

Poor Maintenance

Commercial carriers have specific federal regulations mandating minimum inspection standards. Unfortunately, many trucking companies skimp on this requirement and don’t take trucks out of service that fail to meet the standards or haven’t undergone adequate repair.

Weight Limits

Each truck driven on an interstate highway has a weight limit that it can carry. The laws are designed to preserve the roads and associated infrastructure from undue damage. The standards also aid in the loss of cargo and work toward making trucks safer while they travel the roadways.

Law Offices of Theodore H. Enfield, P.A.

Whether you need a Divorce, are dealing with Custody or Child Support issues, or need representation in a Personal Injury matter, the Law Offices of Theodore H. Enfield can confidently assist you. To learn more about how we can help you or to discuss the facts of your case with our attorneys, call 954-983-1443 to schedule your free consultation.

3107 Stirling Road
Suite 105
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Fax: 954-983-1536

Email: [email protected]

Car Accident Overwhelm? Hire a Lawyer

Posted on March 29, 2020 by Andrew Enfield

A serious car accident can easily overwhelm an individual, and not just in terms of injuries, property damage or financial liability. Those that have been in an accident may also suffer from emotional issues, be looking at loss of income, and need to deal with what may seem like an insurmountable mountain of forms and phone calls from insurance company and HR representatives.

The solution is hiring a lawyer experienced in accident claims. He/she will be an advocate, spokesperson, and help individuals successfully navigate every step of the claims process. An attorney can assist with litigation should difficulties be encountered with insurance companies. Never cash or deposit a check from any insurance company until a lawyer has been consulted. Doing so could rob you of future benefits.

It’s extremely difficult to deal with paperwork and other details when an individual is experiencing pain and the potential for life-changing injuries. There will be a certain amount of shock, worry about medical bills, and even concern about retaining employment if the individual will need to be off work for a significant amount of time. A lawyer can also help in the event that a client is permanently disabled.

One of the things that a lawyer will do is obtain all the pertinent documentation required to deal with insurance adjusters, the settlement process, and the court system if litigation is required. One of the most valuable services a lawyer provides is alleviating stress, allowing clients to focus on healing and regaining their health.

Even with auto and health insurance, individuals often encounter difficulties in terms of paying for medical costs resulting from an accident. Some insurance companies will try to shift the financial responsibility, causing an additional level of anxiety on a client that has already suffered. A lawyer will minimize anxiety, deal with entities on a client’s behalf, and help ensure they receive all the benefits to which they’re entitled.