Truck accidents are often more complex than typical car accidents, due to a variety of factors ranging from the size and weight of the vehicles involved to the multiple parties that could potentially be held liable. The complexities involved in truck accidents highlight the need for experienced legal counsel if you’re involved in such an accident. From investigating the accident and determining liability to negotiating with large insurance companies, a lawyer specializing in truck accidents can provide invaluable assistance.
Yes, the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the right legal support from an injury lawyer in New Jersey, you can focus on your recovery while your rights are being protected and fought for.
This blog post will delve into why truck accidents are particularly complex and what that means for those involved.
- Size and Weight of the Vehicle
Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, compared to an average passenger vehicle that weighs around 3,000 pounds. The sheer size and weight of trucks can lead to more severe accidents, causing extensive damage and serious, sometimes fatal, injuries.
- Longer Stopping Distances
Due to their size and weight, trucks require a much longer distance to come to a complete stop compared to passenger vehicles. This can complicate accident investigations as it can be challenging to determine if a truck driver had enough time to stop to avoid a collision.
- Multiple Potentially Liable Parties
In a truck accident, there can be several parties that may be held liable. These can include the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner of the truck, the shipper or loader of the truck’s cargo, and the manufacturer of the truck or its part. So, determining liability in such cases can be a complex process that requires thorough investigation and legal expertise.
- Complex Accident Investigations
Following a truck accident, a comprehensive investigation is necessary to establish the cause of the crash. Commercial trucks are often equipped with electronic logging devices (ELDs) that record data such as driving hours, speed, and brake usage. Accurately interpreting this data can be crucial in determining fault but also adds complexity to the investigation.
- Large Insurance Policies
Trucking companies typically carry larger insurance policies than individual car owners, as truck accidents can result in significant damage and injury claims. However, these insurance companies often have experienced legal teams working to minimize their payouts. Victims may find themselves up against these teams, making it essential to have strong legal representation.
