Being involved in a collision with a big rig or commercial truck is a terrifying experience that can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars. Unlike a typical car accident, truck accident cases are far more complex due to the size of the vehicles, the extent of damage, and the number of parties that may be involved. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, hiring an experienced truck accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Truck Accidents Are Legally Complex
Truck accidents are governed not only by state traffic laws but also by strict federal regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules for truck drivers and trucking companies regarding driver hours, maintenance requirements, weight limits, and more. Violations of these regulations can directly lead to accidents, but proving this requires knowledge of the law and access to key evidence.
An experienced truck accident lawyer understands how to investigate these complex cases, identify regulatory violations, and hold all responsible parties accountable — not just the driver, but also the trucking company, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers.
Multiple Parties May Be Liable
One of the major differences between a car accident and a truck accident is that multiple parties may be held legally responsible. For example:
- The truck driver may be at fault for reckless or distracted driving.
- The trucking company may be liable for negligent hiring, training, or pushing drivers to break safety rules.
- A third-party maintenance provider could be responsible for improper repairs.
- A manufacturer may be liable if a defective truck part caused the crash.
Determining liability is crucial for maximizing compensation, and a truck accident attorney has the experience to uncover and prove each party’s role in the crash.
Evidence Disappears Quickly
As our friends at Law Firm of Edward Blinder, PLLC can attest, time is of the essence in a truck accident case. Trucking companies and insurers act fast to protect themselves, sometimes even destroying or hiding evidence. Critical data like the truck’s black box, driver’s logbooks, and maintenance records can disappear quickly if not secured.
A truck accident lawyer will send a spoliation letter right away to preserve this evidence and ensure it’s not tampered with. They also work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators to build a strong case on your behalf.
Dealing With Trucking Company Insurance Is No Joke
Trucking companies often have large insurance policies and high-powered legal teams whose goal is to minimize payouts. They may offer you a quick settlement that’s far below what your case is truly worth — or deny liability altogether.
A skilled truck accident attorney knows the tactics insurers use and won’t back down. They can handle all communication, negotiations, and — if necessary — take your case to trial to fight for full and fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses.
Final Thoughts
Truck accidents are devastating, and the legal landscape surrounding them is complicated and unforgiving. You deserve an advocate who understands the unique challenges of truck accident cases and who will fight to protect your rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a big rig, don’t go it alone. Consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your case is handled properly — and that you get the justice and compensation you deserve.