Truck and car accidents are not treated the same legally, though they may have similarities. Truck accidents often involve larger vehicles with the potential to cause significant damage in comparison to a car or passenger truck. Truck drivers are held to higher standards than some other drivers, too, especially in terms of drinking and driving or driving while drowsy.
Truck accidents are more complex because they involve state and federal guidelines and could lead to a greater number of injuries. They’re also likely to cause significant property damage and could cause death. That’s why it’s important to have an attorney on your side who can help you handle your case.
Truck accidents are more complex
When you need to make a claim against a truck driver, the reality is that the case will be more complex. You may need to pursue a claim against the driver, the vehicle’s manufacturer, the driver’s employer or others who are liable for the incident.
Truck accidents involve state and federal regulations
Truck drivers and trucking companies are held to high standards. State and federal regulations apply to the way they drive and when they drive, so if a driver has violated those regulations, then they could be liable for a collision. For example, if the driver violated the hours of service regulations, then they could be held responsible for driving when they should not have been.
Truck accidents tend to cause greater injuries
Even a light truck is between 6,000 and 8,500 pounds, so when you look at the heavy trucks on the road, you can imagine how much heavier they are than passenger vehicles. In a collision, the smaller car or truck is more likely to be damaged by the semi or heavy truck.
Crushing injuries are more likely, and the overall collision has the potential to be more serious than those involving two vehicles of the same or similar weights.
If you are involved in a truck accident, it’s important for you to take steps to get the help you need. Your legal case may be more complex than others, so you deserve to have support on your side.