When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, truck crashes are a different kind of beast. They are far more complicated – and often far more serious – than collisions involving two passenger vehicles. The sheer mass of semitrucks creates a tremendous amount of force that can crush smaller vehicles, with devastating consequences for those inside.
Here are some of the challenges that arise in truck accident cases:
- Proving fault: Because the stakes are so high in these cases, a thorough investigation is all the more important. Most trucks have electronic data recorders that are similar to black boxes in aircraft. Analyzing that data can provide clues as to what went wrong.
- Pinpointing liability: It’s not just the truck driver who may be on the hook in these cases. Many parties could be liable, including their employer (typically the trucking company), the shipping company, the maintenance company or the truck manufacturer, to name a few.
- Navigating insurance: With these accidents, you will likely be dealing with a commercial truck insurance policy, which may have more nuanced coverage and higher policy limits than personal auto insurance.
The higher stakes in truck accident cases
The injuries resulting from truck accidents are often catastrophic. Survivors may suffer from lifelong impairments such as brain injuries, paralysis and chronic pain. Sadly, many of these accidents are fatal.
This means the stakes are often higher than in other types of car crashes. The medical bills alone can easily surpass $1 million.
Having a lawyer who is experienced in handling the challenges of truck accident claims can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.