4 Key Differences Between Truck and Car Accident Claims
There are many different variables when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. While truck accident claims mainly follow the same steps as car accident claims, there are some practical considerations victims might not think about.
Here, we’ll break down four of the key differences between the two. Keep these differences in mind when hiring a Orlando car accident attorney.
Truck Accidents Involve Multiple Parties
In a car accident, the injured party will file a claim against the at-fault driver, which usually involves the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, with truck accidents, there could be more than one party responsible. In addition to the driver, you may be able to file a claim against the driver’s company or the truck manufacturer. You also may be able to file a lawsuit against the company that loaded the truck if your vehicle was hit by items that fell off the truck.
These companies all likely carry insurance, so insurance companies will become involved as well. However, any of the parties you file a claim against may file a counterclaim against you. Knowing who is responsible for your accident and how they may retaliate is vital to your case. An experienced attorney can help you navigate your claims and any counterclaims that may be filed against you.
Truck Accidents Cause More Damage
Smaller vehicle accidents don’t cause as much damage as a collision with an 18-wheel truck. When fully loaded, these trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Those injured in truck accidents tend to have more severe, long-term injuries. The cost of a victim’s medical bills is often high, and insurance companies quickly defend themselves against these claims.
Trucking companies often have large legal teams they consult when dealing with claims. So, it’s especially crucial to speak with an attorney before you talk with any insurance representative. Your attorney may be able to negotiate with them on your behalf so that you can focus more on your recovery.
Trucks Are Susceptible to Different Collisions
When you’re involved in a car accident with another car, the collision is usually head on, rear end, or sideswipe. These types of accidents are common for truck collisions as well; however, there are more dangerous ones to be aware of:
- Jack-knife accidents occur when the trucker brakes suddenly. The trailer does not stop because of its forward momentum, causing it to swing out to the side and form a V shape.
- Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the truck’s side or back and slides underneath it.
- Similarly, override accidents happen when a truck slides over a smaller car.
- Overloaded cargo accidents occur when there is too much cargo on the back of a truck, causing it to tip over. Cargo that breaks away from the truck and hits another vehicle classifies as an overloaded cargo accident.
The right attorney will help you identify which accident you were involved in and what the next steps of your claim should be.
Truck Accident Claims Need More Evidence
Conducting an investigation and collecting evidence is an integral part of a truck or car accident attorney’s job. Truck accidents typically require more proof than car accidents do. Evidence like photographs, police reports, and witness statements are still crucial to your case. However, your attorney can use driver logs, employment records, and expert medical advice as evidence in your case.
Most commercial trucks have a black box, also known as an electronic control module (ECM). A black box records information like how fast the truck was going, when the driver applied the brakes, and the number of times the truck was involved in an accident.
Contact Skilled Truck and Car Accident Attorneys in Central Florida
If you’ve been involved in a truck or car accident, you deserve proper legal representation. The attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm have over 100 years of combined experience and possess the knowledge and skill needed to navigate truck and car accident claims. Our team is passionate about helping the injured get on the road to recovery and obtain the financial compensation they deserve.
Call or complete an online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
