Are accidents involving tractor-trailers different than cases that simply involve accidents involving motor vehicles? The answer to that question is yes. Our law firm has handled cases of people injured in accidents involving tractor-trailers for almost four decades. These cases involve a specific set of federal regulations as well as state regulations that your attorney needs to be aware of and needs to be able to determine whether or not
If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to have a personal injury lawyer experienced in truck accidents advocating for you. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, our car accident law firm has extensive experience handling these complex cases. We are committed to ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
What Are The Key Differences Between a Truck and Car Accident Claim?
Truck accidents and car accidents are both types of vehicle collisions, but they differ significantly in several important ways. One of the primary differences is the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger cars, which means that accidents involving trucks tend to cause more severe damage, both to property and individuals. Due to their size, trucks also require more time and distance to stop, which can increase the likelihood of collisions in certain situations.
The causes of truck accidents can be different from those of car accidents. Truck drivers are subject to strict regulations regarding hours of service, weight limits, and vehicle inspections. Violating these regulations, such as driving while fatigued or with an improperly loaded truck, can increase the risk of accidents. In contrast, car accidents are often caused by driver errors such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
How Do The Severity and Types of Injuries Differ in Truck and Car Accidents?
In truck accidents, injuries are often more severe due to the size and weight disparity between the vehicles. Victims in car accidents involving trucks are at a much higher risk of serious injury or death because trucks can exert much more force upon impact. Common injuries in truck accidents include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. These types of injuries are more likely to result in long-term disability or death.
While car accidents can certainly result in severe injuries, the impact force is generally less significant. Injuries from car accidents can include whiplash, concussions, broken bones, or cuts and bruises. However, when a car collides with a truck, the potential for more serious injuries increases dramatically.
How Are Liability And Insurance Issues Handled Differently In Truck And Car Accidents?
Liability and insurance claims differ significantly between truck accidents and car accidents. In truck accidents, there may be multiple parties responsible for the collision. While the truck driver may be liable, the truck company, vehicle maintenance providers, or even cargo loaders could also share in the responsibility. This makes liability more complex and requires a thorough investigation to determine who was at fault.
For car accidents, liability is usually more straightforward, typically involving only the two drivers involved in the accident, though third parties such as manufacturers or maintenance providers can also be held accountable in some cases. Insurance claims in truck accidents are often more complicated as well, as trucking companies typically carry higher policy limits, and there may be multiple insurers involved. Trucking companies also have extensive legal teams to defend their drivers and the company, which can make it more difficult for victims to secure compensation. In car accidents, the insurance process may be simpler, though disputes still arise over fault and compensation.
What Are The Legal And Regulatory Differences Between Truck And Car Accidents?
Truck accidents are subject to a different set of legal and regulatory standards than car accidents due to the commercial nature of trucking. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules and regulations for truck drivers and companies, including limits on driving hours, vehicle inspections, and driver qualifications. If a truck driver or company violates any of these regulations, it can significantly affect the outcome of a lawsuit, as these violations can be seen as evidence of negligence.
State traffic laws govern car accidents, and drivers are subject to less stringent regulations. While there are laws regarding driver behavior, such as speed limits and rules of the road, the legal requirements for car drivers are generally less complex than those for truck drivers. Furthermore, in truck accident cases, there may be federal regulations that impact the legal process, such as regulations governing interstate commerce, whereas car accident cases typically only involve state laws. This means that victims of truck accidents may face a more complicated legal landscape compared to those in car accidents.
How Can Your Personal Injury Law Firm Help?
If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident, do not try to deal with the trucking company and its insurance company on your own. Call Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp at 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help get you the compensation you are entitled to. We handle cases on a contingency-fee basis, so you won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case.