A More Weightier Matter
Our team has supported countless individuals following road accidents. We understand how daunting these incidents can be, especially when considering the legal complexities that follow. One question we often hear is how legal proceedings differ between regular car accidents and those involving 18-wheelers.
Determining Liability
Identifying the at-fault party is usually a straightforward process in conventional car accidents. This liability typically falls on drivers who violate traffic rules or act irresponsibly behind the wheel. In these cases, the driver or their insurer is liable for covering the resulting damages.
However, in 18-wheeler accidents, responsibility is not as quickly attributed. Liability could fall upon multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, or even the truck manufacturer if a malfunction contributed to the accident. At Corbett & Corbett, we have the skills and experience necessary to unravel these complicated liability threads.
Regulatory Differences
Cars and trucks alike must adhere to traffic laws, but the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes additional regulations on the trucking industry. These guidelines include driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. If an 18-wheeler accident occurs, any violations of these regulations can significantly affect the determination of liability.
Injury Severity
While injuries from car accidents can be grave, the immense size and weight of 18-wheelers often cause more severe, life-altering injuries. Compensation claims in these accidents are typically higher due to the increased medical costs, lost income, and other associated damages.
Insurance Considerations
Insurance also plays out differently in these two types of accidents. Regular drivers often have policies that cover damages up to a limit. However, 18-wheeler drivers and the companies they work for legally require more significant insurance policies to account for the potential of extensive injuries. Our team at Corbett & Corbett is adept at negotiating with these companies to secure the appropriate compensation for our clients or taking cases to trial.
Investigation Complexity
Investigations following an 18-wheeler accident are far more complex. They often involve scrutinizing driver logbooks, maintenance records, cargo information, and the truck’s “black box” data. We often collaborate with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, due to the multifaceted nature of these cases.
Legal Expertise
Given the intricate nature of 18-wheeler accidents, it’s paramount to have legal representation with a deep understanding of these cases. At Corbett & Corbett, we are equipped with knowledge about FMCSA regulations and experience dealing with the multiple potential parties involved.
In summary, 18-wheeler accidents pose unique legal challenges, including the potential for multiple liable parties, the severity of injuries, specific industry regulations, more significant insurance policies, and complex investigations. If a negligent driver injured you or a loved one in such an accident, our team at Corbett & Corbett stands ready to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
