Truck accidents are less common than car accidents, which is fortunate because injuries in truck accidents are often far more severe. But the increased severity of injuries is just one of many factors that set truck accidents apart.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, several factors could impact your ability to recover compensation. It’s crucial to choose an attorney who understands these differences and has extensive experience helping victims obtain the compensation they deserve.
The Laws of Physics Work Against You
One of the most obvious differences between car and truck accidents is size. A tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while a typical car might weigh around 4,000 pounds. In a collision, the car is at a significant disadvantage. Even the sturdiest passenger vehicle typically cannot withstand the impact of a semi, which is why truck accidents often result in fatalities.
Due to their size and weight, trucks also take longer to stop in an emergency, and their design makes it harder for drivers to see other vehicles. A truck’s blind spot can conceal an entire car, making lane changes and turns extremely dangerous. Even when a truck driver spots an obstacle, it takes nearly twice as long to bring a truck to a complete stop compared to a car. This longer stopping distance increases both the likelihood and the severity of a collision.
Additionally, trucks face unique challenges due to their structure. Tractor-trailers pull substantial weight, and the trailer can swing out of control, causing a jackknife accident. In such cases, the trailer moves independently of the tractor, potentially trapping other vehicles. Trucks are also more prone to rollovers because of their higher center of gravity. In a rollover, a passenger vehicle is likely to suffer significant damage.
More Parties Can Be Liable for the Accident
Truck accidents also differ from car accidents in terms of liability. In a typical car accident, the driver is usually the owner and responsible for maintenance. However, in a truck accident, the truck may have a different owner, and maintenance could be performed by a separate company. Additionally, the trailer may belong to another party. There are often multiple parties responsible for the conditions that led to the accident, making it essential to conduct a thorough investigation to hold all liable parties accountable.
Those who could potentially be held liable in a truck accident include:
– The owner of the truck
– The driver
– The company that maintains the truck
– The company that loaded the truck
– The manufacturers of truck components
– A third party that created a hazardous condition
– The company that certified the driver’s credentials
While having multiple parties potentially responsible may provide a broader pool of resources for compensation, it also gives each party an opportunity to shift blame, complicating the case.
Corporate Attorneys May Be Involved Right from the Start
Most trucks operate in commercial service, often for large corporations. These companies typically have legal teams ready to defend them when accidents occur. Corporate attorneys can arrive at the scene quickly to minimize liability, sometimes preventing the truck driver from making statements or cleaning up evidence before victims have a chance to document it.
These legal teams may also try to pressure accident victims into making statements or accepting blame to reduce corporate liability. When you are up against a powerful corporate legal team, you need strong legal representation to protect your rights. Glass Robson has the experience and knowledge to counter corporate legal tactics and help accident victims recover fair compensation.
Truck Accidents Are Often Very Complex
Truck accidents tend to be more complex than car accidents due to the number of parties involved and the various factors that contribute to such incidents. For example, a truck owner could be liable for setting dangerous schedules, failing to assess the driver’s qualifications, or cutting corners on necessary inspections and maintenance.
In many cases, experts are required to assess the factors that led to the accident, particularly in cases involving mechanical failure. Federal trucking regulations may also come into play, adding another layer of complexity. Additionally, because injuries in truck accidents are often so severe, determining damages can be more intricate and significant.
Experience Matters When Recovering After a Truck Accident
Given the complexity and seriousness of truck accidents, it’s essential to be prepared for the additional challenges these cases present. You need a personal injury attorney with the experience, knowledge, and determination to stand up to insurance companies and corporate legal teams. Glass Robson understands truck accident cases and has successfully helped victims recover compensation for the injuries and losses they’ve suffered.
To discuss your case and learn what may be possible, contact Glass Robson today for a free consultation.