When we think about vehicle accidents, we often assume that truck and car crashes follow the same legal process. However, truck accidents are significantly more complex than typical car accidents. From the severity of injuries to the number of parties involved, these cases require a different legal approach. As Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyers, we understand the unique challenges that come with pursuing compensation after a collision with a large commercial vehicle.
Severity Of Injuries And Damages
At Burton Law Firm, we can attest that truck accidents tend to cause far more severe injuries than car accidents. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to an average passenger car weighing around 4,000 pounds. When a truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the impact can be devastating, leading to catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Broken bones and amputations
- Internal organ damage
These severe injuries result in higher medical expenses, longer recovery periods, and greater financial losses, making the stakes in truck accident claims much higher than in car accident cases.
Multiple Liable Parties
In a typical car accident, liability usually falls on one of the drivers. However, truck accidents often involve multiple parties, making the legal process more complicated. Potentially liable parties include:
- The truck driver – If the driver was speeding, fatigued, or distracted, they may be responsible.
- The trucking company – Companies can be held liable for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines.
- The truck manufacturer – If faulty brakes, tires, or other mechanical failures contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be at fault.
- Cargo loaders – Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can cause accidents, leading to liability for those responsible.
Determining fault in a truck accident requires a thorough investigation, which is why legal representation is crucial.
Trucking Industry Regulations
Unlike regular car accidents, truck accident claims involve strict federal and state regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules that trucking companies and drivers must follow, such as:
- Limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue
- Regular truck maintenance and safety inspections
- Proper cargo loading and weight restrictions
- Drug and alcohol testing requirements for drivers
If a trucking company or driver violated these regulations, it could strengthen our claim and increase the chances of securing maximum compensation.
Insurance Policies And Compensation Challenges
Trucking companies carry much larger insurance policies than standard car drivers, often worth millions of dollars. While this means higher compensation is possible, it also means that insurance companies will aggressively fight claims to minimize payouts. These insurers have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests, making it essential for us to have experienced legal representation on our side.
Stronger Need For Legal Representation
Given the complexities of truck accident claims, from multiple liable parties to federal regulations and high-value insurance policies, handling these cases alone is risky. We need an experienced truck accident lawyer to:
- Investigate the accident and gather critical evidence
- Identify all liable parties to maximize compensation
- Handle negotiations with large insurance companies
- Take the case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered
Truck accidents are far more complex than car accidents, requiring specialized legal knowledge and resources to secure fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.