Sharing the road with large trucks is part of everyday life, but when something goes wrong, the results can be devastating. These massive vehicles bring a different set of risks, and the aftermath of a crash often looks very different from a typical car accident.
Behind the scenes, a web of rules, regulations and corporate interests can shape what happens next. Understanding these complexities is key to knowing what to expect and how to move forward.
1. Federal regulations
Commercial truck drivers and the companies they work for must follow strict rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), covering everything from hours behind the wheel to vehicle maintenance. States also have their own rules that truck drivers and companies need to abide by. Understanding which rules apply and searching for violations of these rules can be complex, but is essential when trying to hold someone responsible.
2. Liability
Additional layers of complexity come from the number of people and entities who could be held liable. In a car accident, the issue is usually between only two drivers. But with trucks, responsibility could lie with:
- The driver
- The trucking company
- A maintenance crew
- A cargo loader
- The manufacturer of a defective part
Untangling this web is crucial to determining who is legally responsible.
3. Insurance
Finally, commercial trucking insurance is vastly different from regular auto insurance because there are likely several layers of insurance that may cover the truck. You might find insurers trying to pass the buck and saying you should be claiming against one of the other insurance policies rather than theirs.
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a truck accident, the right guidance can help you find clarity and peace of mind.