A tow truck is commonly thought of as a vehicle that provides assistance if a car is disabled, breaks down, or is involved in a crash. While tow trucks commonly do provide help for those in need, they can also be the cause of accidents. Tow truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons and result in serious and fatal injuries. If you have been injured in a Florida tow truck accident, an attorney
can help you pursue a claim and recover compensation for your injuries and loss.
Types of Tow Trucks and Causes of Accidents
There are different types of tow trucks, and each has a specific purpose. These trucks can range from light-duty to medium-duty to heavy-duty.
Common Types of Tow Trucks
- Hook and chain tow truck
- Wheel lift tow truck
- Flatbed tow truck
- Integrated tow truck
Sometimes tow truck accidents can occur due to mechanical or equipment failure or if the tow truck has been poorly maintained. An accident can also happen if the vehicle being towed is not secured properly and breaks free from the tow truck. If the car becomes unsecured, there is no way to control it, and the result can be a crash with other vehicles on the road. However, driver negligence can also be the cause of these truck accidents.
Driver Negligence and Tow Truck Accidents
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Driving without regard for poor weather conditions
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Common Types of Accidents Involving Tow Trucks
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Sideswipe collisions
- T-bone collisions
- Underride collisions
Tow Truck Injuries and Possible Compensation
A collision with a tow truck can cause severe injuries and damage due to the size of the truck and the load it’s carrying. Because the size ratio between a car and truck is so great, some accidents result in fatalities. The following are some common injuries caused by tow truck accidents:
- Head or neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Broken bones and fractures
- Sprains or muscle strains
- Burns
- Cuts and lacerations
- Crushing injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Death
When You’re Injured in a Florida Tow Truck Accident
You can begin protecting your legal rights immediately after an accident with a tow truck by taking the following steps:
- Calling the police and filing a report
- Seeking prompt medical care for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem
- Collecting evidence at the scene of the crash, including witness contact information and photos from the accident scene
- Avoiding mistakes such as posting details about the accident on social media sites or talking to insurance adjusters who want to settle your case as quickly as possible
- Contacting a truck accident attorney for legal guidance
Multiple Potential Defendants in a Florida Tow Truck Accident
If you were seriously injured or a loved one killed in a tow truck accident, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you receive fair compensation and help determine who should be held accountable for the accident. It can be difficult to determine who is liable since several parties could be found negligent.
Possible Liable Parties
- Driver of the tow truck
- The towing company
- Insurance company
- Tow truck or brake manufacturer
- Loader of the vehicle being towed
Once a truck accident attorney determines fault, they will calculate the value of your case and possible compensation.
Possible Compensation
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost income and wages
- Pain and suffering
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage
- Wrongful death
Contact a Florida Truck Accident Attorney
If you suffered an injury in an accident involving a tow truck, contact Browning Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are never any legal fees unless we win your case. To schedule an appointment, fill out our online contact form, or call us at 850-344-1736.
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