What to Know About Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Getting into a crash with another passenger vehicle is bad enough. When the other vehicle is much larger, things can get serious fast.

Commercial vehicles like semi trucks can weigh 80,000 pounds — that’s 20 times the size of the average passenger vehicle. Commercial vehicle accidents can lead to devastating consequences for everyone involved. Besides semi trucks, these vehicles may include delivery vans, utility trucks, and buses. Colliding with one of these vehicles can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even death.

Commercial vehicle accidents are different from passenger vehicle crashes in the following ways:

• Higher risk of severe injuries. Commercial vehicles are larger and heavier than passenger cars. Because of their size, collisions often cause more serious injuries, extensive property damage, and a higher risk of fatalities.
• Multiple liable parties. Unlike regular car accidents, liability in commercial vehicle crashes can extend beyond the driver. Potentially responsible parties may include the driver, the company that owns the vehicle, a contractor, maintenance providers, or even manufacturers if a defect played a role.
• Stricter regulations. Commercial drivers and companies must follow state and federal regulations, including hours-of-service limits, vehicle inspection requirements, and cargo loading standards. If these rules are violated, it may strengthen an injury claim against them.

FAQs

Q: What evidence is important after a commercial vehicle accident?

A: In addition to photos and witness statements, commercial accident cases often require specialized evidence. This may include the driver’s logbooks, GPS and black box data, inspection and maintenance records, and company safety policies. Such evidence can reveal driver fatigue, vehicle defects, or company negligence. Because these records can quickly disappear, it’s crucial for victims to act fast and consult an attorney who can secure them before they’re lost.

Q: How does driver fatigue contribute to commercial accidents?
A: Many commercial drivers work long shifts and face strict delivery deadlines, which can lead to fatigue. Federal regulations limit the number of driving hours, but violations are common. Fatigued drivers experience slower reaction times, poor judgment, and sometimes even fall asleep at the wheel. Because commercial vehicles take longer to stop and maneuver, driver fatigue significantly increases the risk of devastating accidents on highways and in busy city streets.

Q: How are victims compensated after a commercial vehicle accident?
A: Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In severe cases, victims may also pursue damages for long-term disability or reduced earning capacity. Because commercial insurers usually have higher coverage limits, settlements can be substantial but also harder to obtain. Victims often need to prove fault with strong evidence and navigate aggressive insurance tactics to secure fair compensation for their losses.

Contact Us Today

Commercial vehicles can cause serious accidents. Occupants of passenger vehicles are the ones affected the most.

In a crash? You don’t have to navigate this challenging situation alone. Get the help you need from a Mt. Juliet commercial vehicle accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC. Schedule a consultation with our office today by filling out the online form or calling (615) 622-6060.

Source:

iihs.org/research-areas/large-trucks#defective-equipment