Contrary to popular belief, Pinellas County—the land of sunshine—does experience bad weather. Sudden storms, flash floods, hurricanes, and intense road heat take a toll on motorists and truckers, compromising conditions and increasing the risk of accidents.
You could be the safest driver in the area, but that may not prevent an accident involving an inexperienced trucker or a driver in a hurry who ignores the conditions. Bad weather truck accidents in Clearwater can be devastating, causing catastrophic injuries that affect your ability to work, pay bills, and enjoy good health. If you suffered injuries because a truck driver ignored inclement weather conditions, our experienced truck accident attorneys at Herman & Wells could review your case.
Negligence is the basis for lawsuits when truck drivers breach their duty to act responsibly, and their actions cause a foreseeable accident and injuries. A violation of a federal or state statute can prove a breach of duty in a negligence case. For example, under 49 Code of Federal Regulations § 392.14, truckers must exercise extreme caution in hazardous weather. They can still be negligent even if they are driving at the posted speed limit during a torrential downpour that limits visibility.
While a driver who causes a truck crash is often liable, the trucking company that employs them may share the responsibility for encouraging negligent behavior or failing to provide adequate training in handling inclement weather. If you sustained injuries in an inclement weather truck accident in Clearwater because the trucker disregarded safety rules, our attorneys at Herman & Wells could assess your situation to determine whether you are eligible for compensation for your losses. These damages may include medical care costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma from suffering permanent disfigurement or disability.
Clearwater is part of the Sun Coast, a region in what many call the Sunshine State. However, it is not always a blazing sun that residents and truck drivers endure. Even the extreme summer heat could impact truckers through dehydration. The powerful, unexpected thunderstorms that often appear can suddenly reduce a driver’s visibility. Poor weather conditions contribute to truck crashes in Clearwater, causing truck drivers to:
Since truckers have a responsibility to adjust their driving to the conditions, failing to do so could be grounds for a negligence claim if you sustained injuries. Our compassionate and competent attorneys at Herman & Wells could guide you through the entire legal process, informing you every step of the way.
The CFR § 387.9 requires interstate commercial trucking companies to insure their rigs for at least $750,000 and up to $5 million if drivers are transporting hazardous cargo. If your losses exceed those limits, a Herman & Wells attorney may file a lawsuit seeking appropriate damages.
Cases involving bad weather truck accidents in Clearwater can be complex. While you concentrate on getting well, our attorneys could skillfully negotiate with insurers or explain to a jury why you deserve the compensation we are seeking on your behalf. Call now and schedule your free consultation.
