If you’ve been in a car wreck, you may think you know what to expect from a truck accident. After all, they’re both motor vehicle accidents, right? Wrong. There are several key ways that Texas truck accidents are different from car wrecks, and understanding these differences is crucial if you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident.
1. Attorney involvement – In many cases, an attorney will need to be involved in a truck accident case from the very beginning. This is because of the complex legal issues that can be involved in these cases, including liability and compensation. In many cases there can be multiple liable parties. This list can include, the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner of the tractor or trailer, the truck maintenance facility, the shipper/party responsible for loading the truck or even the truck and parts manufacturers.
2. Higher death rates – Unfortunately, truck accidents often result in more serious injuries and fatalities than car wrecks. This is due to the large size and weight of trucks, as well as their often dangerous cargo. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the death rate in large truck crashes was nearly four times higher than the rate in passenger vehicle crashes in 2018. In fact, of the 4,415 people killed in large truck crashes that year, 85 percent were occupants of other vehicles.
3. Unique causes – There are many unique causes of truck accidents that don’t come into play with car wrecks. For example, driver fatigue, equipment failure, and hazardous materials spills can all lead to serious accidents. Additionally, trucks have large blind spots, which make it difficult for other drivers to see them and avoid them. Finally, they work on deadlines and often travel at high speeds, which makes it difficult for them to stop quickly if necessary.
4. Long-term effects – The effects of a truck accident can be felt long after the actual accident occurred. This is because of the severe injuries that are often sustained in these accidents, which can lead to months or even years of recovery time. It is not uncommon to experience a long-term or even permanent disability after an accident with a truck of tractor trailer. Common injuries from truck accidents include; broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, serious fractures, burns, internal bleeding, organ damage, amputations and death.
5. Federal Regulations – Federal regulations are designed to keep both truckers and other drivers safe on the road. These regulations cover everything from how many hours truckers can drive in a day to what kind of cargo they can carry. Texas truck drivers are required to have certifications and specific license’s. Truckers and their companies are legally obligated to inspect their trucks before, during, and after trips and ensure proper maintenance and function. Violating these regulations can lead to serious consequences, including being involved in a truck wreck.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a Texas truck accident, it’s important to understand these key differences. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal issues involved and fight for the compensation you deserve. Adam Miller, The Texas Bulldog has extensive experience as a Truck Accident Attorney. Call now for a free, no-obligation case review at 713-572-3333. You will never pay anything unless The Miller Law Firm wins or settles your case.
