How Do Truck Accidents Differ from Car Accidents?

While truck accidents may seem similar to car crashes, from a medical and legal standpoint they are quite different. Trucks drastically outweigh other types of vehicles and they are operated and owned by many different individuals. This means filing a claim for damages is more complicated and involves dealing with many layers of red tape and dealing with multiple insurance companies. Below, our Knoxville truck accident attorney outlines five main ways truck accidents differ from others on the road.

Trucks are Much Larger than Other Vehicles 

When fully loaded, a commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Considering that passenger vehicles weigh between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds, it is easy to see the damage that a commercial truck can cause. Their size and weight also makes it more difficult to stop and turn. Even when a truck lightly hits another type of vehicle, it can result in serious and even life-threatening injuries.

Trucks Have Larger Blind Spots 

Due to their size and length, trucks have blind spots on all four sides of the vehicle. Truck drivers often cannot see to their immediate right, left, front, or back. Other motorists should try to avoid these areas as much as possible, but truck drivers also have a legal duty to make sure these spaces are clear of other vehicles at all times before they change lanes, braking, or accelerating.

Trucks Need More Maintenance 

Passenger vehicles typically only need maintenance when something goes wrong, but large commercial trucks need almost constant maintenance. Trucking companies and truck drivers must make sure the equipment on a truck is properly maintained and that nothing is defective, malfunctioning, or broken. When a truck contains defective equipment, it can easily cause a serious crash on interstates and highways.

Additional Laws and Regulations 

When two drivers of passenger vehicles are involved in a crash, it is usually just state law that applies. Truck drivers and trucking companies, though, are subject to state and federal law. Federal laws governing truck accidents including the hours of service rule, legislation regarding the inspection and maintenance of trucks, and laws pertaining to the weight of a truck. It is critical to work with an attorney who is familiar with all of the laws that apply to truck accident claims.

Multiple Liable Parties 

There are many potential liable parties in truck accident cases, and they are not always at the accident scene. Truck drivers can act negligently by driving while impaired, distracted, or fatigued. Trucking companies can be held liable when they engage in negligent hiring or training practices, and manufacturers can be held responsible for paying damages when they release a defective product that caused a crash. These are just a few of the possible liable parties in truck accident cases and so, it is important to contact an attorney who can determine who is at fault.

Our Truck Accident Attorney in Knoxville Can Advise On Your Case 

If you have been hurt in a truck accident, it is important to understand your legal options. At Atkins Brezina, PLLC, our Knoxville truck accident attorney can explain what those are and build a strong case so you obtain the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Call us today at 865-500-3121 or contact us online to request a free case review and to get more information.

Sources:

fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hours-service/summary-hours-service-regulations

fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/search