5 Differences Between Car and Truck Accidents
More than 7.2 million car accidents occur in the U.S. annually. While more cars occupy the road than trucks, with 20-30 times more weight, trucks and other commercial vehicles can cause much more damage. However, their size isn’t the only difference between cars and trucks. Here are 5 differences between car and truck accidents.
1. Trucks Carry More Insurance
While insurance requirements for cars are determined by the state and take into account driving record and type of vehicle when establishing insurance premiums, it is not the same for trucks. Insurance for semi-trucks generally runs anywhere from $9,000-$12,000 per year and depends on several factors:
- The worth of the truck
- The contents of the haul
- The distance the driver is going
- The age of the driver
- The driver’s credit history
- The driver’s CDL history
2. Large and Commercial Vehicles Have More Laws By Which to Abide
While cars, passenger vehicles, trucks and commercial vehicles must adhere to state and local law, trucks and other large commercial vehicles must also follow federal regulations. Since trucks travel the interstate, federal law determines things such as the distance that individuals may drive within a specific period of time and what they are allowed to haul. On top of that, trucking companies and truck drivers must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as well as the Department of Transportation (DOT).
3. Different Evidence Collected
After an accident occurs, the evidence is collected in order to determine liability. Attorneys will review evidence such as photos, police reports, and witness statements. But when reviewing an accident that involves a truck or commercial vehicle, additional evidence is needed as it relates to the:
- Vehicle
- Cargo
- Truck Driver
Since the FMCSA only requires truckers to maintain all records for six months, it is important that evidence is collected quickly.
4. Different Parties May Be Liable
If you are involved in a car accident, only you (the driver) and the insurance company are involved. However, in accidents involving trucks, there can be multiple parties involved. Since under FMCSR guidelines the tractor (truck) and trailer are considered separate entities, everyone from the owner of the trucking company, the driver, brokers, and freight forwarders, to shippers, warehouse workers, and maintenance & repair shops may also be liable.
5. Truck Accidents May Involve Greater Compensation
Due to the fact that large trucks and commercial vehicles cause more damage than standard passenger cars, when in an accident they generally will result in more extensive or severe injuries. Since injuries are greater, so are medical bills and compensation.
Randall F. Rogers, PC Helps Those in Georgia Who Have Been Injured Due to the Negligence of Another
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or truck accident due to the negligence of another, you should not have to pay the consequences of their actions. That is why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Marietta personal injury attorney.
At Randall F. Rogers, PC, we understand what you have to lose and will fight to see that you get what you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call Randall F. Rogers, PC today!
Posted in: Automobile Wrecks, Tractor Trailer & Truck Accident