4 Ways Trucking Accidents Differ From Car Wrecks
Posted on May 29th, 2019 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
Personal Injury Lawyer
When car accidents occur and you suffer injuries and other types of loss, suing the individual responsible is usually the most effective means of receiving compensation. However, if your accident involved a commercial truck, such as an 18-wheeler, filing a claim may be more difficult. There are many federal rules and regulations that govern large transport companies and when a company’s vehicle or driver causes an accident, you may face several obstacles as you try to collect compensation.
1. Drivers Are Governed By Federal Rules
Unlike individual motorists who own their vehicles, most big rig drivers are under employment by large transport companies that are overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This organization is responsible for load weights, how many hours drivers can spend behind the wheel and what type of cargo they can haul. If your vehicle is struck by one of these large trucks, federal laws may impede your court case because of their complexity and effect on the trucking industry.
2. Settlement Offers May Be Swift
Once a trucking accident occurs, the company that employs the driver may be fast to reach out and offer you a settlement. While this can seem beneficial, the amount offered might be much lower than what you can actually collect if you take the case to court. If the trucking company contacts you with a settlement offer, it is wise to speak to an attorney before accepting any compensation.
3. Injuries Are Likely to Be Grievous
Minor car accidents are not likely to cause serious injuries and, in most cases, the damage to your vehicle is likely to be worse than any physical harm to you as a result of a wreck. However, when an 18-wheeler collides with a car, the result can be devastating due to the sheer weight of the vehicle and its load. Broken bones, internal injuries and brain damage are all common in victims of wrecks like these.
4. Drivers May Be Shielded By Their Employers
Big rig drivers have a great deal of responsibility when it comes to sharing the road with smaller vehicles. However, bad weather, fatigue and distractions inside the cab can all cause accidents and when they occur, the company that employs drivers may try to steer blame away to avoid having to pay for property damage and injury. When this happens, you may have to consider filing a lawsuit to gain proper compensation.
Trucking accidents can cause severe injuries and proving negligence on the part of the truck driver might be difficult because of how transport companies are regulated. Talk to a truck accident attorney in Canoga Park, CA today to find out more about how to protect your rights after becoming involved in such an incident.
Thanks to Barry P. Goldberg for their insight into personal injury cases and how car and truck accidents are different.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
