Truck Accident Claims: How They Differ From Car Accidents
A crash with a semi-truck or other large commercial vehicle is not just a bigger car accident. Injuries tend to be more serious, more parties can be responsible, federal safety rules come into play, and trucking companies and their insurers usually start investigating within hours.
Who may be responsible
- The driver, for speeding, distraction, fatigue or impairment.
- The trucking company, for unsafe schedules, poor hiring or training, or failing to maintain the truck.
- The owner of the trailer or truck, if different from the carrier.
- The company that loaded the cargo, if a shifting or overweight load caused the crash.
- Parts manufacturers or repair shops, if a brake, tire or other part failed.
Federal safety rules
Interstate trucking companies and drivers must follow federal safety regulations, including limits on how long drivers can be on duty, vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements, and drug and alcohol testing. Breaking these rules can be strong evidence of fault.
Evidence disappears quickly
Important evidence can be lost or overwritten if no one asks for it, including:
- The truck's electronic data, such as speed, braking and engine information.
- Electronic logging device records of driving hours.
- Dashcam footage and dispatch messages.
- Inspection and maintenance records.
An injury lawyer can send a letter demanding that the company preserve this evidence, which is one reason to talk to a lawyer early in a truck case.
What to do after the crash
Get medical care, call the police, photograph the scene and the truck (including its company name and DOT number on the door), get witnesses' contact details, and avoid giving a recorded statement to the trucking company's insurer before you get advice. See what to do after a car accident.
Larger policies, harder fights
Commercial trucks carry much higher insurance limits than personal cars, which means more money is available for serious injuries, but also that insurers fight harder. See how much is my personal injury case worth.
Find a personal injury lawyer near you.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.