Why Truck Accidents Differ from Car Accidents

By Ben Wright  Sep. 16, 2014 4:10p

Differences

There are many differences between semi trucks and cars. The instrument panels are vastly different, with a truck's panel looking more like an airplane's panel. The distance between you and the road is greater, and most importantly, the rules of the road are vastly different. Semi trucks have certain requirements for speed, time the driver has spent behind the wheel, as well as other rules that extend to the driving/hauling process.

Why a Truck Accident is Worse than a Car Accident

Here's a few reasons why truck accidents can be so much worse than car accidents.

Size: Since semi trucks are so much bigger and heavier than cars and smaller pickup trucks, they have a much larger impact on anything they come into contact to, and thus typically cause more damage. This damage can be to structures, other vehicles, and people. They can cause larger amounts of injuries as well - such as traumatic brain injuries, back and neck injuries, broken bones, internal bleeding, whiplash, and wrongful death.

• Driver's files: Truck drivers are required to follow a number of regulations. During an accident investigation involving a truck, a driver’s qualifications, training file, driving logs, as well as inspection records, are often used as evidence. A driver's cell phone records are also likely to be used as evidence after an accident. And if the driver's cell phone records show he or she was texting, posting to social media, or viewing Internet materials during the time of the accident, he or she can be held liable for damages.
• Hours on the road: Truck drivers have specific regulations ruling how long they are able to drive before being legally required to take a rest. This is also recorded in a driver's log.
• Weight and balance: There are regulations regarding how much a truck is allowed to carry, as well as how it is to be loaded. There is also corresponding paperwork that accompanies the load. This can be used as evidence in a lawsuit.
• Condition of the vehicle: Trucks have to be in good working condition to be allowed on the road. In order to maintain good condition, regular maintenance and inspections are required. The necessary paperwork documenting that maintenance is also required.
• Trucking company: Usually a truck driver hauls for a company. And because of that, the trucking company may also be held liable for damages. This can be especially true if it's discovered they were negligent in making sure the driver didn’t go over the hourly driving limit. The company might also be responsible for maintenance on the vehicle, required paperwork, or managing the cargo.
• Truck manufacturer: If a problem with the truck is traced back to the truck's manufacturer, they may also be held liable for damages.

If you've been involved in atruck accident or a car accident, you should consult the attorneys at Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC.

Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC

668 N 44th St.

Suite 300

Phoenix, AZ 85008

Phone: (623) 552-4959

http://www.personalinjuryattorneys.me/