When a person suffers injuries in a commercial trucking accident, they may believe that the claims process will be relatively similar to that of an auto accident. However, passenger car accidents are very different from 18-wheeler crashes. In this guide, readers will learn the biggest differences between car accidents and truck collisions.
Larger Insurance Policies
Because of the movement, nature, and size of commercial trucks, they may carry insurance policies with up to 50 times more coverage than those found on passenger vehicles. Because of these policies’ high value, insurance carriers constantly look for ways to avoid liability. Similarly, to avoid a high payout, the company may make a seemingly large settlement offer in the very beginning. A Truck Accident Lawyer can keep clients from falling for these tactics.
Varying Regulations
Most commercial trucks on the road today make interstate deliveries, which means they have to register with the DOT and the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Because these trucks move from state to state, companies are covered by more regulations than regular motorists are. These rules include truck maintenance, special qualifications for drivers, logbooks, and annual inspections. Because conventional vehicles aren’t under the same rules, trucking accidents are often more complex in terms of assessing liability.
Greater Property Damage
A truck with a loaded trailer may weigh 80,000 pounds or more. A truck’s weight and size can cause serious damage to anything that gets in its way. Therefore, commercial trucking accidents often result in costly and widespread property damage.
Severe Injuries
A devastating difference between auto accidents and commercial trucking crashes is the injuries caused. When a 40-ton truck is put up against a two-ton car, the results are life-altering. Injuries range from whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injury and even death.
Call an Attorney Today
In the areas listed above, an experienced Truck Accident Lawyer will help a client receive the compensation to which they’re entitled. An experienced attorney understands the tactics insurers use, the rules truckers must follow, and the way commercial vehicle insurance works. Call today to schedule a consultation or visit chrisrichardattorney.com for more details.
