Moving is complicated enough on its own. When a moving van is involved in an accident, it can take that complexity to another level. If you or a loved one has been injured in a moving van accident near Tallahassee, you can seek compensation. A Tallahassee moving van accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can advise you on filing a legal claim.
Moving vans are large and often full of heavy furniture and other items. Despite this, these dangerous, heavy vehicles can typically be driven by just about anyone. No special license, such as a commercial driver’s license (CDL), is required to drive a moving van.
Recommendations for Moving Van Accidents
Following any motor vehicle accident, it is normal for the victim to be shaken up. Tensions are running high during this time, but it is important to keep a cool head. Mistakes made during this time can affect what compensation you may claim. The following list includes recommendations for actions to take (or not take) after a moving van accident:
Actions to Take
- Avoid acknowledging any fault or responsibility for the accident
- Collect evidence of any kind, including photographing the scene
- Obtain a copy of the accident report
- Keep records, particularly financial records
Causes of Moving Van Accidents
Moving van accidents are relatively common, primarily due to the driver’s lack of familiarity with driving a large vehicle. Moving van accidents can happen for a plethora of reasons. Some of the commonly seen causes are:
- Inexperienced Driver. Even if a driver has years of experience driving a traditional car, this does not mean they are prepared to handle a large moving van. Inexperienced drivers are generally less confident and more likely to make errors.
- Unsafe Weather Conditions. Every driver knows that rainy or snowy conditions make it difficult to see. Likewise, icy roads can cause a car (or moving van) to slip or skid.
- Unsafe Driving. Despite the inexperience mentioned above, moving van drivers often speed. Due to the sheer weight of the van, they stop slowly. Another commonly seen example of unsafe driving is texting (or using a GPS) while operating the vehicle.
- Unsafe or Poorly Maintained Vehicle. The moving van rental company is responsible for providing safe, well-maintained vehicles to their customers.
- Over-Packed or Improperly Packed Van. If you have moved before, you know how stressful it can be. Because of this stress, movers commonly put more cargo into the van than they should. Even more commonly, large pieces of furniture are not secured. This can cause several issues. It can fall out of the car, blocking the road and endangering other drivers. Furniture or other items can also become dislodged, causing an imbalanced load.
Potential Damages from Moving Van Accidents
Traffic accidents include several complicating factors, making each one unique. A Tallahassee moving van accident lawyer can identify your losses, which may include:
- Past medical expenses
- Estimated future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Car repair bills
- Rental car fees
- Pain and suffering
However, these are not the only damages that can be claimed in these kinds of cases. A Tallahassee area moving van accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can help you calculate what compensation you are entitled to when it comes to your specific case.
Who Is Involved in a Moving Van Accident Case?
Even more so than a traditional car accident case, moving van accidents are intricate. This is because of the many parties involved. Some parties involved may include:
- The driver of the moving van
- The insurance company for the driver
- The van rental company
- Lawyers representing the van rental company
How Can a Moving Van Accident Lawyer Help Me?
Moving van accidents can be complicated even more if the van traveled across state lines or is registered in another state. A lawyer from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can help you in several ways, such as by:
- Accumulating evidence to help prove your case
- Establishing the liable party
- Ensuring that all of your expenses are accurately calculated
- Communicating with the insurance companies and the attorneys representing the other party
- Filing a lawsuit on your behalf and representing you in court if necessary.
Let a moving van accident lawyer worry about the legal issues while you focus on your health and recovery.
How Long Do I Have To File a Lawsuit?
The time limit on a lawsuit is referred to as the statute of limitations. For cases of this nature, the statute of limitations is generally four years in Florida. That means that from the day of the accident, a victim has exactly four years to file, according to Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a). In the unfortunate case of wrongful death, the victim’s family only has two years to file a claim.
Either way, acting quickly can allow you to protect your rights and get you on track to pursuing the compensation you are due. It also gives your attorney more time to investigate your case while creating a solid case on your behalf.
Contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine Today
Our team at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine is here to help. You do not need to go through this complicated process on your own.
Get a free case review today by calling 1-800-747-3733. While you focus on your health, allow the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine to represent you and fight for fair compensation.
We Can Help.
