All vehicle accidents are not created equal. In order to recover financial compensation, car accidents and truck accidents involve different steps and processes.
The following are the main differences between a car accident and truck accident:
- Different causes. In many cases, the causes of a truck accident are not always simple and apparent. An average car accident is often caused by human error, such as distracted or reckless driving. While truck accidents are also caused by human error by the driver, they may also implicate the trucking company, such as an accident caused by equipment failure. The company could be blamed for failing to ensure that the truck was properly maintained, or the driver could be blamed for failing to conduct a pre-trip inspection before the drive.
- Injuries. One of the biggest differences between an average car accident and a truck accident is the extent of the injuries of the victim or victims. A semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, compared to 3,000 pounds of an average vehicle. The more momentum and weight results in more severe injuries.
- Monetary damages. Like car accidents, truck accident victims have the right to obtain financial compensation for medical care, rehabilitation, loss of income, loss of earning capacity, as well as pain and suffering. However, since multiple parties may be implicated in a trucking accident, the process can be more complicated compared to car accident cases.
- Special licensing. In order to operate a commercial truck, a driver must undergo specialized training, especially when it comes to transporting certain materials. For example, to transport hazardous materials, a driver must possess a special license and use specific routes. If you were involved in an accident with a truck driver transporting dangerous materials, and he or she didn’t have a special license or use the designated roadways, then negligence is evident.
Due to the complexities regarding truck accident cases, having an experienced lawyer on your side can ensure that you recover the most reasonable compensation possible. Working with a professional who has a comprehensive understanding of federal trucking regulations will improve the chances of the victim receiving all monetary damages they are entitled to.
If you suffered an injury due to the negligence of another party in Mississippi, contact Harris Law Firm, PLLC and request a free consultation with our Greenville MS injury lawyer today.