Accidents involving semi-trucks and passenger vehicles can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries or even death. If you’ve been involved in such an accident, it’s essential to know your legal rights and understand what steps you need to take to protect yourself and your family. In this article, we will discuss some common causes of accidents involving semi-trucks and passenger vehicles, as well as provide information on insurance policies, filing claims against truck companies, and more.
Introduction to Semi-Trucks vs. Passenger Vehicles Accidents
One of the main differences between semi-trucks and passenger vehicles is their size and weight. While a typical car may weigh around 4,000 pounds, a fully loaded semi-truck can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds. This significant difference in weight can result in catastrophic damage when these two types of vehicles collide. Additionally, semi-truck drivers are subject to different rules and regulations than regular motorists, which can further complicate matters after an accident occurs.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents and Your Legal Rights
There are many potential causes of accidents involving semi-trucks and passenger vehicles, including driver error, mechanical failure, road conditions, weather, and more. Some of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents include:
1. Driver fatigue – Truck drivers are required to adhere to strict hours of service guidelines, but some may still push themselves beyond their limits, leading to drowsiness behind the wheel.
2. Speeding – Like all drivers, semi-truck operators are expected to obey speed limits and adjust their driving based on traffic and road conditions. However, some may choose to drive too fast for safety reasons.
3. Distracted driving – Texting while driving, using a cell phone without hands-free technology, and other forms of distraction can lead to accidents with any type of vehicle, including semi-trucks.
4. Improper maintenance – Trucks require routine maintenance to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Failure to maintain a truck properly can lead to breakdowns, tire blowouts, and other issues that can cause accidents.
Understanding the Differences Between Commercial and Personal Insurance Policies
After an accident involving a semi-truck, it’s crucial to understand the differences between commercial and personal insurance policies. While both types of policies cover bodily injury and property damage, there are key differences in how they apply to semi-truck accidents. For example, commercial policies typically have higher liability limits than personal policies, meaning victims may be able to recover more compensation if they file a claim against a truck company. Additionally, commercial policies usually require truck drivers to carry additional coverage for cargo and equipment, which can also come into play after an accident.
What You Need to Know About Filing a Claim Against a Semi-Truck Company
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a semi-truck, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. To file a successful claim against a truck company, you’ll need to gather evidence to support your case, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and more. It’s also important to work with experienced attorneys who specialize in truck accident cases, as they can help guide you through the process and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing your legal rights after an accident involving a semi-truck is critical. By understanding common causes of accidents, the differences between commercial and personal insurance policies, and how to file a claim against a truck company, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of a collision.