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Hersh Kirtman Injury Law is here to help if you’ve been hurt or lost a loved one in a trucking accident in Palm Beach County. Weighing over 25 times more than the average passenger car, a truck crash can be devastating to the occupants of the smaller, lighter vehicle. Collisions with 18-wheelers, also known as tractor-trailers or semi-trucks, can cause catastrophic injuries or wrongful death to the accident victims, including sometimes the truck driver as well, regardless of who was at fault.
Trucking accidents are complex, and insurance carriers for the transportation industry fight hard to defend against claims. If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident on I-95, U.S. Route 1, Yamato Road, Glades Road, A1A, Clint Moore Road, Florida’s Turnpike, or the streets of Boca Raton or Palm Beach County, Hersh Kirtman Injury Law can help. Contact our experienced Boca Raton Truck Accident Lawyer today.
Truck accident litigation is very different from a standard auto collision. Federal rules apply, Florida statutes add another layer, and often several corporations share responsibility for what happened. A single crash might involve the driver, the trucking company, a freight broker, a maintenance contractor, and multiple insurers. Each of them has professionals trained to limit financial exposure. Without legal representation, it is easy for a crash victim to be outmatched.
The role of a lawyer is critical because they:
At Hersh Kirtman Injury Law, our Boca Raton truck accident lawyers embrace this responsibility with relentless dedication and compassion. We aim to pursue every legal avenue, challenge powerful trucking companies and insurers, and fight to secure the financial recovery and the sense of justice our clients deserve.
Several recurring factors contribute to collisions on Florida’s highways and local roads; however, truck accidents are often linked to fatigue and braking issues. In addition, the braking capacity of large trucks is significantly different from passenger vehicles. Stopping distances are much longer, especially in wet or slippery conditions or when brake systems are not adequately maintained.
Federal trucking safety rules include strict Hours-of-Service (HOS) requirements, which set limits on how long a driver can operate before resting. These standards exist to reduce fatigue-related crashes, a leading factor in commercial vehicle collisions. As outlined in 49 C.F.R. Part 395, §395.1, the rules apply broadly to all motor carriers and drivers unless a specific exemption is listed.
Importantly, even when federal exceptions apply, they do not override Florida’s own laws governing safe operation. Under this section, drivers facing adverse driving conditions may extend their allowable driving time by up to two hours to reach safety, while emergency situations permit completing a run if it could reasonably have been finished absent the emergency.
For short-haul operations, drivers working within a 150 air-mile radius may be exempt from certain log requirements if they return within 14 hours and meet minimum rest periods. These provisions reflect how federal law balances safety with real-world operating challenges.
Routine inspection and maintenance are essential for the safe operation of commercial trucks. Federal regulations and Florida law require carriers to keep their fleets in working order, but many companies cut corners to save money or time. Faulty brakes, bald tires, defective lights, and worn steering systems are all examples of mechanical issues that can lead to catastrophic crashes.
When maintenance records are falsified, inspections skipped, or unsafe vehicles placed on the road, the consequences can be devastating. Victims of these accidents often face life-altering injuries, from spinal trauma to brain damage, all because a carrier failed to prioritize safety. In legal terms, that failure creates liability.
Maintenance logs, repair invoices, and inspection histories are key pieces of evidence in determining whether neglect played a role in the crash. Holding trucking companies accountable for these lapses not only secures compensation for victims but also helps promote safer practices across the industry.
The size and weight of a commercial truck mean that even minor errors can have devastating results. When a driver engages in negligent conduct, such as speeding, texting behind the wheel, or driving under the influence, the potential for disaster increases dramatically. Federal and state laws require professional drivers to operate with heightened care because of the danger these vehicles pose on public roads.
Unfortunately, not every driver follows the rules. Excessive speed reduces stopping distance, distraction delays reaction time, and alcohol or drugs impair judgment and coordination. Together, these behaviors transform a tractor-trailer into a serious hazard for everyone nearby.
Investigating negligent driving often involves reviewing cellphone records, toxicology reports, and data from the truck’s electronic logging device. When misconduct is proven, it not only establishes liability but also highlights a breach of trust placed in commercial drivers.
Federal and Florida cargo securement standards exist for a reason: improperly loaded freight is one of the leading causes of serious trucking accidents. Overweight trailers, unbalanced loads, or cargo that shifts during transport make a truck much harder to control. These conditions can lead to rollovers, trailer swing accidents, and debris spills that endanger every motorist on the road. When carriers or shippers ignore securement rules to move freight faster or cheaper, they put the public at risk.
Liability may fall not only on the driver but also on the company responsible for loading and inspecting the cargo. In a legal claim, evidence may include weight tickets, loading records, and photos from the scene showing spilled or unsecured materials. Demonstrating a violation of securement standards can make the difference in proving fault.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Boca Raton At Hersh Kirtman Injury Law, we turn adversity into justice through trust and relentless advocacy. With decades of experience, we don’t just handle cases—we redefine outcomes. Your recovery starts with a conversation. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation—because you deserve a team that fights as hard as you do.
Your Recovery is Our Mission.
Let’s Make It Happen.
Florida law also addresses liability through mandatory insurance coverage. Under Florida Statutes §324.021(8), every owner or operator’s motor vehicle liability policy must provide protection against claims for bodily injury, death, and property damage arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle. These requirements are part of the state’s financial responsibility laws and set a foundation for recovering damages after a crash.
Notable requirements are:
For individuals injured in truck crashes, liability extends beyond proving fault. It also requires confirming that legally required insurance coverage exists and applies. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer carefully reviews these policies to identify every available avenue for financial recovery.
Truck accident claims are governed by a combination of federal safety rules and Florida statutes. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer must be familiar with both to build a strong case. The following provisions regularly guide how these cases proceed:
These laws determine liability, deadlines, and recovery. Knowledge of both state and federal standards allows attorneys to protect evidence, anticipate defenses, and pursue compensation effectively.
Taking the right steps after a truck crash is vital for both health and legal protection. Each action strengthens your ability to recover physically and pursue a claim:
The aftermath of a truck crash often leaves victims facing overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Compensation in these cases is designed to address both immediate costs and long-term consequences. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer carefully evaluates each category of damages to pursue the fullest recovery available under Florida law:
Claims must reflect not only treatment and lost wages, but also future care needs, permanent disabilities, and the impact on quality of life. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer can carefully evaluate these factors to pursue a recovery that addresses current and long-term hardships.
A strong truck accident claim requires meticulous investigation and preparation. At Hersh Kirtman Injury Law, our team of Boca Raton truck accident lawyers approaches every case with the resources and determination needed to uncover the truth and hold negligent parties accountable. Our process involves multiple steps designed to protect evidence and strengthen your position:
We prepare each case as if it will be argued before a jury. This strategy strengthens evidence, clarifies liability, and communicates to insurers that inadequate offers will not be accepted. Trial-ready preparation often drives fairer settlements while also positioning us for courtroom success.
Deadlines are strict. Florida Statutes §95.11(5)(a) (2025) provides that “an action founded on negligence” must be filed within two years. For wrongful death, §95.11(5)(e) applies the same two-year period.
Given that the statute of limitations is strict, waiting too long can risk both your rights and the availability of critical proof. Speaking with a Boca Raton truck accident lawyer early allows your situation to be evaluated under the law and provides guidance on how the statute of limitations applies to your case. Taking timely steps helps protect the opportunity to pursue legal action.
Being injured in a truck accident can lead to devastating results. If you were injured in a truck accident, you may have the legal right to pursue justice by filing a claim.
Hersh Kirtman Injury Law can help when you’ve been injured in a truck accident or lost a loved one to a fatal truck crash in Palm Beach County. We are here for you when you need us and ready to give our all to make sure you are taken care of. Contact our experienced Boca Raton Truck Accident Lawyer today by calling 561-208-3700 for a free consultation.
Find directions to our Truck Accident Lawyer’s office.
Founding Partner
A passionate advocate for injury victims, Michael transitioned from corporate law to fighting for individuals after a pivotal case defending an elderly couple. With over $100M in verdicts and settlements, he specializes in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, using his Trial Lawyers College training to powerfully tell clients’ stories.
Years of experience – Over 15 years
Elite Trial Advocate – Graduate, Trial Lawyers College
$35M Record Verdict – Catastrophic auto accident case
Yes. Even if the truck driver or trucking company is based outside of Florida, you can still pursue a claim if the crash occurred here. Federal law permits states to exercise jurisdiction over out-of-state drivers and carriers who operate within their borders. In practice, this means that a lawsuit can be filed in the Florida county where the collision happened. Evidence such as the police crash report, witness statements, and black box data can still be collected and used in court, regardless of where the trucking company is headquartered.
Additionally, most commercial trucking companies are required to carry liability insurance that applies across state lines, ensuring coverage is available when crashes occur. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer can review jurisdiction, identify the proper venue, and hold out-of-state carriers accountable under both federal trucking regulations and Florida negligence laws.
Truck accidents often involve more than one negligent party. For example, a driver may have been speeding while the trucking company failed to maintain its vehicles, or a freight broker may have hired an unsafe carrier. Florida law, Fla. Stat. §768.81, applies the doctrine of comparative negligence, which means each responsible party can be held accountable for their share of fault. Importantly, even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages, so long as you are not found to be more than 50% responsible. Determining fault requires a detailed investigation into driver logs, maintenance records, and company safety practices. By identifying every liable party, victims increase the likelihood of securing full and fair compensation. A truck accident attorney will pursue claims against all entities involved — drivers, carriers, contractors, or manufacturers — to ensure no responsible party escapes accountability.
There is no single answer to the value of a truck accident claim because every case is unique. Compensation depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of injuries, the cost of current and future medical care, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Property damage, rehabilitation expenses, and long-term disability can also significantly increase the value of a case. Additionally, liability plays a major role: if multiple defendants share responsibility, each may contribute to the settlement or verdict. Insurance policy limits often set practical boundaries on recovery, though litigation can sometimes uncover additional sources of coverage. Because of these variables, estimates made without a thorough case review are often misleading.
Yes. Accepting a settlement without legal guidance can be risky. Insurance companies often make early offers that are far below the true value of a claim, hoping victims will accept quickly before realizing the full extent of their injuries and losses. Once you accept, you generally cannot seek additional compensation later, even if future medical costs or lost income are higher than expected. A lawyer can carefully review the settlement, compare it against the damages you are legally entitled to pursue, and negotiate with the insurer for a fairer outcome. In many cases, an attorney can uncover additional responsible parties or insurance policies that the insurer may not disclose upfront. A Boca Raton truck accident lawyer will handle these negotiations, protect your rights, and guide you on whether the offer truly reflects the impact of the crash on your life.
When a truck accident results in death, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim under Florida law. These claims can seek damages for funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before death, lost financial support, and the loss of companionship, protection, and guidance provided by the deceased. Florida Statutes §95.11(5)(e) sets a two-year limitation period for filing wrongful death actions, making timely action essential. Wrongful death cases are particularly complex because multiple defendants may share liability, and insurers often contest the full value of the family’s losses. Evidence may include trucking records, accident reconstruction, and testimony from economic experts to measure the impact of lost income and household services. By filing a wrongful death claim, families not only seek financial stability but also accountability from negligent drivers and companies.
Michael and his team were nothing but helpful in my long and stressful case. Any time I had any questions or needed anything, they were always extremely quick to answer my questions. Deana was also a huge help! I am also very pleased with the outcome of my situation, it was my first time involved in any sort of injury case like this and they made it as easy as possible. Thank you guys again!
Absolutely amazing experience with this firm. Michael Hersch was a pleasure to work with. He was extremely transparent, communicated regularly with updates and worked tirelessly to ensure that I received what I deserved. I cannot say enough about how positive my experience was with this firm. Highly, highly recommend!
The Law Office of Hersh Kirtmam has handled my family with complete professionalism and great compassion during a difficult time in our lives, from the first meeting we knew that had a team that fight for us ! Thank you Hersh Kirtman .
BEST LAWYER HANDS DOWN!! If you’re ever in need of one please don’t hesitate to contact this lawfirm. I am very pleased and happy with the result of my case all thanks to the hersh kirtman injury lawfirm.
I would recommend Hersh Kirtman Injury Law without any hesitation or reservations. Mr. Hersh is the attorney who handled my case. He worked tirelessly on my behalf to bring closure and a very positive outcome. Mr. Hersh’s front office were always very supportive and helpful. If Mr. Hersh was not available when I called, they always got an answer to my question and called me back without delay. Hersh Kirtman is the Injury Law firm to call.
I cannot recommend this firm enough. Michael and his team were incredibly knowledgeable, thorough and helpful throughout the entire legal process. Although my husband and I required his services due to unfortunate circumstances, we are both grateful to have met Mr. Hersh. If you’re in need of a personal injury attorney, look no further. Hersh Kirtman Law is the best!
For over a decade, Ian has fought for victims of catastrophic injuries in auto accidents, medical malpractice, and premises liability cases—securing life-changing results like a 4.35 M store front crash verdict and 4M medical malpractice settlement.
Active leader in Florida’s legal community (Florida Justice Association, Palm Beach County Justice Association) and UM Law alum with trial honors. Devotes personal time to Becca’s Closet charity and family in Delray Beach.
Recognized Excellence:
– AV Preeminent® Rated (Martindale-Hubbell’s highest honor)
– Top 40 Under 40 (National Trial Lawyers)
– Rising Star (Super Lawyers)
This page was written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers in accordance with our comprehensive editorial guidelines. It was approved by Attorneys Michael Hersh and Ian Kirtman, who have more than 20 years of experience as personal injury attorneys.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, please fill out the form below for your free consultation or call us at 561-208-3700
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