The Difference Between Truck and Car Accidents

All accidents are traumatic and difficult experiences, even when they do not result in severe, debilitating injuries. That said, there is a distinct difference between truck accidents and car accidents, especially in regards to what such claims involve. Several factors that are unique to commercial truck accidents make handling such claims significantly more complex, which is why it is crucial to hire a personal injury attorney with experience in representing these cases before you proceed any further.

Below is a list of ways in which truck accidents differ from car accidents:

• Different causes: In a car accident, determining fault is generally easier. In most cases,
  human error is to blame, so you would hold the other driver liable for the injuries you sustained in the accident. In a truck accident, the cause might be less clear-cut. Oftentimes, equipment failure plays a role in causing truck accidents, though this does not automatically render the truck driver blameless. It is not uncommon for a truck driver to be responsible for ensuring the truck’s equipment is in good working order and functioning properly. Additionally, equipment failure could also potentially implicate the trucking company itself if it is proven that they acted negligently in ensuring the truck was being effectively maintained. With so many possible causes at play, it is no wonder why the skilled assistance of a truck accident attorney is necessary in such cases.

• Substantial damages: When a person suffers injuries in an accident that is caused by someone else’s negligent actions, he or she can pursue fair and just compensation that will cover the economic and non-economic costs associated with the injuries sustained, including pain and suffering. In a truck accident, the injuries sustained are often far more severe, even catastrophic, requiring on-going medical care, nursing home costs, rehabilitation, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, disfigurement, and emotional suffering. As such, the damages involved tend to be much greater than what one might expect in a car accident case and, therefore, the at-fault party’s insurance company will fight back even harder to reduce your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

• Special truckers licenses: State and federal regulations govern commercial trucking and it is likely that the truck driver who was involved in the accident was required to undergo specialized training and education. They should also possess a commercial driver’s license that reflects their level of training. If the truck driver who caused the accident lacks all of these requirements and qualifications, the trucking company could be held liable for negligence due to their failure to properly train and hire employees.
• Hire an attorney: As you are now aware, there are many complexities involved in a truck accident case, making a truck accident attorney necessary. An attorney with experience in this field will understand the rules and regulations that govern the trucking industry and be able to determine how many parties are liable for the accident’s occurrence. The truck driver and trucking company will be backed by a team of attorneys and their insurance companies, so make sure you have a legal advocate of your own in your corner.

Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Las Vegas

If you were recently injured in a truck accident that was caused by another party’s negligent or careless actions, you should not hesitate to pursue fair and just compensation to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and more. At Shook & Stone in Las Vegas, our truck accident attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and skill that is necessary to effectively represent you.