Partner
Truck accidents are far more than just larger versions of typical car crashes. When an 18-wheeler or other commercial truck is involved in an accident, the consequences are often much more severe, leading to greater injury, higher financial stakes, and more complex legal battles. In this post, The Payne Law Group will explore the key differences between truck accidents and regular car accidents and why these differences matter when pursuing compensation for injuries and damages.
Size and Weight Disparity
One of the most obvious differences between truck and car accidents is the sheer size and weight of the vehicles involved.
- Impact on Collision Severity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while an average passenger vehicle weighs around 3,000 to 4,000 pounds. The massive size of a truck means that the force of a collision is much greater, often resulting in devastating consequences for those in smaller vehicles.
In a truck accident, injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage, amputations, and even fatalities are much more common than in a typical car accident. The severity of injuries often leads to longer hospital stays, extended rehabilitation, and higher medical costs.
- Longer Stopping Distance: Another factor related to size is stopping distance. Trucks require far more distance to come to a complete stop than cars, especially when carrying a full load. This increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions and other serious accidents, mainly if road conditions are poor or if the truck driver is distracted.
Commercial Regulations and Laws
Trucking companies and truck drivers are subject to a wide range of federal regulations that do not apply to ordinary motorists. These regulations are designed to improve road safety and reduce the risk of commercial vehicle accidents.
Federal Regulations Governing Truck Drivers
Truck drivers must follow strict rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). One of the most significant regulations is the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which limit the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road without taking a break. This is to prevent driver fatigue, a common cause of truck accidents. Drivers are required to take rest breaks after a certain number of driving hours and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance.
Involvement of Multiple Regulatory Agencies
In addition to FMCSA, the Department of Transportation (DOT) also plays a role in overseeing commercial trucking operations. Violations of federal regulations, such as exceeding HOS limits, can significantly affect liability in the event of an accident.
Complex Liability Issues
Determining liability in a truck accident is usually much more complicated than in a standard car accident. In a typical car accident, one or both drivers are usually responsible. However, in a truck accident, there may be multiple parties who could be held liable.
Multiple Potentially Liable Parties
Liability for a truck accident could extend to:
- The truck driver: If the driver was distracted, tired, or driving under the influence.
- The trucking company: If the company failed to enforce safety regulations or pushed drivers to exceed HOS limits.
- The truck manufacturer: If a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes, caused the accident.
- The cargo loaders: If improper loading of cargo contributed to the accident.
- The maintenance provider: If the truck had not been adequately maintained.
Vicarious Liability and Employer Responsibility
Under the principle of vicarious liability, trucking companies can be held responsible for the actions of their drivers. If a driver causes an accident while on the job, the company that employs the driver may share liability. This often leads to more complex legal cases, as trucking companies have legal teams ready to minimize their financial liability.
Insurance Coverage Differences
Another key difference between truck and car accidents is the scope of insurance policies involved.
Higher Insurance Policies
Trucks are required to carry significantly higher insurance coverage than regular vehicles due to the potential for catastrophic damage. While a typical car may be covered by an insurance policy with limits of $100,000 or $300,000, trucking companies often have policies worth millions of dollars. The higher the stakes, the more likely insurance companies are to fight aggressively to avoid large payout claims.
Multiple Insurance Policies
In many truck accident cases, there are multiple insurance policies at play. For example, the trucking company may have its own insurance policy, while the driver may have a separate personal policy. Additionally, if a third party (such as a maintenance company or manufacturer) is involved, their insurance may also come into play. Sorting through these layers of coverage can be challenging and requires experienced legal representation.
Complex Accident Investigation
Accident investigations involving trucks are often much more detailed and technical than those for car accidents. Specialized experts and unique sources of evidence play a critical role in proving liability.
- Black Box Data and Driver Logs: Commercial trucks are equipped with Electronic Logging Devices, also known as “black boxes,” which record the truck’s speed, brake usage, and hours of operation. This data can be crucial in determining the cause of the accident and whether the driver was complying with HOS regulations.
- Accident Reconstruction: In severe truck accidents, accident reconstruction specialists may be needed to recreate the events leading up to the crash. These experts use black box data, vehicle damage, and road conditions to determine how and why the accident happened.
Different Types of Injuries
Due to trucks’ size and force, injuries sustained in truck accidents are often far more severe than those in car accidents.
Some of the most common injuries in truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones and amputations
- Severe internal injuries
These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and even lifelong assistance, which contributes to higher costs and more complicated legal claims.
Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident
Truck accidents are far more complex than regular car accidents with higher stakes for injury victims. Understanding the differences between the two can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, contact our experienced team at The Payne Law Group. We have the knowledge and resources to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for more information.