How Is a Car Accident Different From a Truck Accident?
Car accidents and truck accidents are both unfortunate events that can result in serious or catastrophic injuries and extensive damages, but they are inherently different in several ways. Understanding these differences is crucial when pursuing a claim against the negligent party and their insurance company. Read on to learn more about the differences between car accidents and truck accidents. If you’ve been hurt on the road in Southern California, contact Ochoa & Calderón to speak with an experienced Riverside personal injury attorney.
Size and Weight
The most obvious difference between car accidents and truck accidents is the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Commercial trucks, especially big rigs like semi-trailers or 18-wheelers, are significantly larger and heavier than passenger cars. This disparity in size and weight means that when a truck is involved in an accident, the impact can be much more severe, often resulting in greater damage and more serious injuries.
Regulations and Standards
Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to a myriad of federal and state regulations that do not apply to most car drivers. These regulations include limits on the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest, specific maintenance and inspection requirements, and stringent standards for securing loads. Violations of these regulations can contribute to the cause of an accident and may play a crucial role in establishing liability in personal injury claims.
Investigating and Determining Fault
Determining liability in truck accidents can be more complex than in car accidents. In a car accident, liability often falls primarily on one or more of the drivers involved. However, in a truck accident, multiple parties could be held liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts, and even the company responsible for loading the truck. This complexity necessitates a thorough investigation, often involving experts who can analyze the truck’s electronic control module (ECM), maintenance records, and the driver’s logbooks.
Severity of Injuries and Damages
Due to the sheer size and weight of trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in more severe injuries and greater property damage. Injuries in truck accidents can be catastrophic, leading to long-term or permanent disabilities, and in some cases, fatalities. The higher medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering associated with these severe injuries mean that the stakes are higher in truck accident cases, both for the victims and the insurance companies involved.
Insurance Coverage
Trucking companies are typically required to carry higher liability insurance coverage than what is required for personal vehicles. This is due to the increased potential for damage and injury in truck accidents. While this higher coverage can be beneficial for accident victims seeking compensation, it also means that insurance companies will vigorously defend against large claims, often employing aggressive tactics to minimize payouts.
Legal Representation
Given the complexities and the high stakes involved in truck accident cases, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation. A personal injury law firm with expertise in truck accidents can navigate the intricate legal landscape, ensuring that all liable parties are held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Contact Ochoa & Calderón in Riverside for Help After a Car or Truck Accident in Southern California
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car or truck accident caused by another’s negligence, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of a skilled personal injury law firm that can effectively advocate for your rights and interests and help you get the compensation you need and deserve. Call Ochoa & Calderón for a free consultation to discuss your situation, in Riverside at 951-901-4444 or throughout Southern California at 844-401-0750.
