Road accidents have become so common these days. The main reason for this is the increase in the number and types of automobiles. While every vehicle has the same reputation on the road, the type of accidents and the resulting injuries tend to change with the type of vehicle. For instance, an accident between a commercial truck and a passenger car will be much dangerous than a collision between two cars or two trucks. If you are wondering about the differences between commercial truck and passenger car accidents, two of the helpful points are given below.
Size Difference
This is the most obvious and evident difference between commercial trucks and passenger cars. While the average weight of a passenger car tends to range from 3000 to 4000 pounds, the weight of a semi-truck comes up to 80,000 pounds. As a result of this size difference, the automobiles will have to take certain precautions on the road. For instance, the safe distance to brake a passenger car will be way less when compared to a heavy truck.
Similarly, truck drivers will have to deal with more blind spots because of the huge size of their vehicles. Commercial trucks have to manage the weight of the cargo as well while driving. A sudden stop can sometimes imbalance the cargo inside affecting the overall balance of the truck itself. Hence, truck accidents are relatively more fatal in comparison to car accidents. No wonder, the compensation awarded to truck accident victims are usually much higher than the car accident victims. This also explains the necessity of hiring a well-versed truck accident lawyer.
Liability Difference
When it comes to car accidents, the entire process will be quite straightforward and the guilty person will be usually the opposite car driver. On the other hand, when it comes to truck accidents, the liability is shared between the driver, trucking company, Cargo Company, truck manufacturing company, etc., depending on the circumstances. Hence, you will have to rely on the services of a truck wreck lawyer who is skilled in dealing with similar cases rather than a personal injury lawyer. Note that the defendant team will be significantly strengthened in this case and determining liability can be really challenging.
Usually, semi-truck drivers are expected to follow certain rules and regulations including the Hours of Service when behind the wheels. They will have to go through an extensive training process as well to get their commercial truck driver’s license. Besides, truck drivers are obliged to follow the traffic laws as well as the laws set forth by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
