Why are Truck Accidents More Complex than Car Crashes?
No two truck accidents are exactly alike. However, when you consider that commercial trucks weigh up to 40,000 pounds when they are not loaded, and up to 80,000 pounds when they are carrying cargo, there is one thing that remains the same in all of these cases. The aftermath of any truck accident is incredibly complicated. Many people think accidents involving large trucks are similar to those involving passenger vehicles, but that is not true. Below, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer explains what makes these cases so complex.
The Injuries are Much More Serious
Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, they cause much more severe injuries when they are involved in a wreck. Traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, spinal injuries, chronic pain, multiple broken bones, amputations, and death are just a few of the most common types of injuries sustained during a truck accident. These injuries often are permanent, which require lifelong care and long recovery times.
Insurance Companies are More Reluctant to Pay Damages
The fact that injuries are much more serious also means the insurance company liable for paying damages is less likely to cooperate. Insurance companies are much more interested in protecting their own profits than they are paying accident victims the settlement they deserve. As such, they are more likely to deny, reduce, or delay claims when the damages are substantial.
Investigations are More Difficult
All accidents require a full investigation to determine fault, but this is also more complicated after a truck accident. You need a lot of evidence to support your claim including the black box in the truck, the driver’s hours of service log, and inspection and repair records. Trucking companies are hesitant to provide this evidence against them, so it is important to work with a lawyer who knows what to expect and how to overcome the obstacles in these cases.
Multiple Parties May Be Liable
When the drivers of two cars are involved in a crash, usually one of the parties at the scene is at fault. This is not always the case after a truck accident. There are multiple parties that may be liable for a truck accident including the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loading company, the shipper, the broker, the maintenance company, and the truck manufacturer.
Different Laws are Involved
Most accidents in San Antonio and Texas are governed by state law. Again, this is not always the case in truck accidents. The trucking industry is heavily regulated by federal law and accident victims are not always aware of what these are. A lawyer who handles truck accident cases will know what these laws are and hold the appropriate parties accountable when they are violated.
Our Truck Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Provide the Legal Advice You Need
At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer can help after a crash. Our experienced attorney can conduct a full investigation, preserve and collect the necessary evidence, and ensure that you receive the maximum settlement you deserve. Call us today at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/policy/rpt_congress/truck_sw_laws/index.htm
