How Truck Accident Cases Differ From Car Accidents

When you are in an accident of any type, the law requires that you, as the victim, prove the losses you have with evidence. You can then file a claim for compensation against the at-fault party’s liability insurance.

However, there are several key differences in truck accident cases compared to car accidents, and a Lexington truck accident lawyer can help you see them.

Multiple Parties at Fault

It is not uncommon for more than one party to be at fault in a truck accident case, whereas in a car accident, it is typically just the other driver. For example, in a truck accident, the truck driver could be at fault, but their employer, the trucking company, may also be responsible.

Your attorney will work to prove all parties at fault by investigating your case thoroughly and building a clear indication of all parties involved. You can seek compensation against multiple parties if you have evidence to substantiate these claims.

State and Federal Truck Regulations Are Applicable

Another way that truck accidents differ is that they are governed by a more comprehensive list of regulations. Trucking companies must follow these federal trucking regulations to ensure that all parties on the road are kept safe. When they fail to do so, you can seek legal action against those parties in a court of law.

Note that federal truck regulations are complex, which makes it far more challenging for you to seek compensation against the at-fault party unless you know what these laws are. Hiring a truck accident lawyer can make the process more effective because your lawyer will have better insight into what these laws are and can determine errors and mistakes.

Losses Are Often More Substantial

It is also very common for truck accidents to result in more serious implications for health and well-being. Because trucks are larger, heavier, and traveling at a high rate of speed, it is very common for victims to suffer serious injuries. With the help of your attorney, you will have a better opportunity to document those losses and, ultimately, build a robust claim.

However, victims must be able to understand what all of those losses are, and that in itself can be complex. Your lawyer will be able to evaluate potential losses, including economic and non-economic damages. In some cases, you may also be owed punitive damages.

Fighting Insurance Companies Is Tougher

Insurance companies working for trucking companies are more aggressive and committed to reducing the compensation paid out. Because fines and lawsuits can stem from these accidents, insurance companies are quick to try to settle the claim, and that can create an unfair resolution of damages.

For victims, it is necessary to know how to navigate their rights and hold insurance companies accountable. Having an attorney with experience working with truck accident attorneys can prove to be critical. You need to show them they should pay you for your losses, and your lawyer will help you achieve that objective.

Seeking Legal Guidance Becomes Critical

A truck accident case will differ from a car accident in multiple ways. One way they are the same is in their ability to benefit from having legal guidance.

Hiring an attorney allows you to have a better understanding of what your risks and losses are, as well as how to hold those who caused your losses accountable. Contact a Lexington truck accident lawyer at Gary C. Johnson P.S.C. to discuss your options.