If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident in Minnesota, you already know how overwhelming the aftermath can be. Our Minnesota commercial truck accident lawyer knows that when that accident involves a semi-truck or another large commercial vehicle, the situation becomes much more complicated than a typical car accident. From the scale of injuries to the number of parties involved, truck accident cases bring unique challenges that you’ll want to be prepared for. We’re available to speak 24/7, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us when you are ready.
The Size And Force Of Trucks
The most obvious difference is the size and weight of a commercial truck. Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, compared to an average car at around 3,000 pounds. Because of that, accidents with trucks often result in more serious injuries, longer recovery times, and greater financial strain. You may find that medical bills add up quickly, and the time you need away from work can be significant.
More Than One Party May Be Liable
Liability can be tricky with commercial truck accidents. In a car accident, you’re usually dealing with the other driver and their insurance company. In a truck accident, several parties could share responsibility. This may include the driver, the trucking company, the company that loaded the cargo, or even the manufacturer of defective truck parts. Each of these parties will likely have their own insurance and legal representation, which makes the process more involved than a standard car crash claim.
Federal And State Rules Apply
Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow strict federal and state regulations that don’t apply to regular drivers. These rules cover things like how many hours a driver can be on the road without resting, how the cargo must be secured, and the maintenance requirements for trucks. If a driver or company violated these rules, it could play a key role in proving your case. However, gathering this type of evidence isn’t always straightforward.
Accessing Evidence Takes Work
Truck accident cases also require access to evidence that you wouldn’t typically need in a car accident claim. This might include the driver’s logbooks, maintenance records, or the truck’s black box data. These records aren’t always easy to obtain, and trucking companies may not be quick to hand them over. Acting quickly after a crash can help preserve the information you need to support your claim.
Insurance Companies Fight Harder
Because of the high costs often associated with truck accident claims, insurance companies tend to push back harder when it comes to paying out. You might find that they offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your expenses, hoping you’ll take it before realizing how much you truly need for your recovery. Having someone on your side who knows how to handle these tactics is an important step.
Why These Differences Matter
The differences between car accidents and truck accidents mean you’ll likely face more challenges when pursuing compensation. From proving who is responsible to collecting the right evidence, each step can have a big impact on the outcome of your case. The good news is that you don’t have to face this process alone.
At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we’re here to help you take the right steps forward after a truck accident in Minnesota, starting with a free consultation. If you’ve been hurt in a crash with a commercial truck, reach out today for a free consultation so we can discuss how to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
