Trucking accidents are far more complicated than a car accident. Unlike crashes between two passenger vehicles, a truck accident involves multiple parties, federal laws, and severe consequences. The sheer size and weight of large trucks make them more dangerous, leading to severe injuries or even fatal crashes. If you or a loved one has been in a truck crash, understanding these complexities is crucial when seeking justice.
Why Are Trucking Accidents Different Than Car Accidents?
Many people wonder, “How are truck accidents different than car crashes?” The answer lies in key factors like liability, regulations, and damages. Trucking accidents differ from standard car accidents because they involve commercial trucks, federal agencies like the FMCSA, and multiple parties accountable for the accident.
1. The Sheer Size and Weight of Trucks
One of the biggest differences between trucks and cars is the great volume of a semi-truck. These vehicles weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making a collision with a passenger vehicle far more dangerous than a car wreck. Occupants of smaller vehicles are at greater risk of suffering catastrophic injuries when hit by a truck.
2. More Liable Parties in a Truck Accident Case
This accident case involves several parties, making it more complex than a car accident vs a truck accident. Obligated parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking companies
- A cargo-loading organization
- Truck manufacturers
- Insurance companies
Because so many parties may be held accountable, determining fault is more difficult than in car wrecks.
3. Strict Federal Regulations for Truck Drivers
Truck drivers must maintain strict safety standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Unlike passenger vehicle drivers, truckers must follow the rules:
- Driver fatigue (limits on driving hours)
- Cargo loading and weight limits
- Driving under the influence laws
- Maintenance and inspection of trucks
Failing to follow these rules can result in inadequate loading, poor decision-making, and collisions involving trucks.
4. Truck Accidents Often Result in Severe Injuries
Due to their size and weight, truck accidents often result in serious injuries. Victims of semi-truck accidents may suffer:
- Catastrophic injuries (spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries)
- Common injuries (broken bones, whiplash)
- Permanent disabilities that alter the rest of a victim’s life
Because these accidents differ significantly from standard car collisions, plaintiffs seeking compensation must prove long-term damages.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to accidents. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Fatigue – Truckers often drive long hours, increasing the risk of crashes.
- Improper Loading – Poor cargo loading can make a truck crash more likely.
- Poor Decision-Making – Speeding, reckless driving, and driving under the influence cause many truck wrecks.
- Jackknife Accidents – When a semi-truck folds at an angle, it can lead to fatal crashes.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you need a skilled truck accident attorney. Unlike some firms that rely on paralegals, our collision attorneys personally handle your case. We:
- Investigate vehicle accidents
- Gather evidence to hold obligated parties accountable
- Fight for the compensation you deserve
Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Holding Trucking Firms and Other Liable Parties Accountable
Holding trucking firms responsible for negligence is crucial. In many cases, trucking companies cut corners on safety. Handling accident caseloads like these requires an experienced attorney who understands federal regulations.
Additionally, other obligated parties may include:
- The truck manufacturer if a defect caused the accident.
- The cargo loading organization if inadequate loading contributed to the accident
- A passenger car driver if they were reckless
With so many possible defendants, you need top injury attorneys who know how to identify multiple parties accountable.
Seeking Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
Victims of accidents often face life-changing injuries. The financial burden can be overwhelming, but a truck accident lawyer can help you recover damages, including:
- Medical expenses (both legally and medically necessary treatments)
- Lost wages due to injuries
- Pain and suffering
Unlike fewer parties involved in a car wreck, accidents require extensive investigations and legal expertise.
Get a Free Consultation with a Top Truck Accident Attorney
If you’ve been in a truck accident, don’t wait. A free case evaluation with an experienced truck collision attorney can help you understand your rights. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
At Austin Accident Lawyer, our attorneys personally handle your case. Unlike other firms, we don’t pass you off to a paralegal. Accident lawyers at our firm fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation!
