How Truck Accidents Differ from Car Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents can cause serious harm, but truck accidents often result in more severe injuries, greater property damage, and more complex legal and insurance issues. These collisions are governed by unique laws and regulations that set them apart from standard car accidents. For residents of La Habra, where local freeways like the I-5 and CA-57 are common routes for commercial trucks, understanding the legal implications of a truck crash is crucial. At Dixon Law, we help injured individuals hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the full compensation they are entitled to.
Commercial Trucks Are Subject to Federal Regulations
One of the most significant differences between truck and car accidents is the layer of federal oversight. Commercial trucks are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which sets standards for driver qualifications, working hours, and maintenance protocols. Violations of these standards can form the basis for liability, especially when driver fatigue, equipment failure, or weight overload is involved.
For instance, truck drivers must comply with Hours of Service rules, which limit the amount of time they can drive without rest. If these rules are ignored, and fatigue contributes to a collision, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. These regulatory factors are rarely present in regular car accident cases, where driver negligence typically revolves around speeding, distraction, or intoxication. Learn more about how liability plays a role in recovery by visiting our personal injury practice area.
Commercial Insurance Policies Involve Larger Coverage and More Challenges
Truck accidents often involve commercial insurance policies with higher limits than personal auto insurance. While this may seem like a benefit, it usually means the insurance company is more aggressive in defending claims. These policies are designed to protect trucking companies and their stakeholders, not the victims.
Victims often encounter pushback from insurers, who may argue shared fault, delay processing, or offer low settlements. An experienced personal injury lawyer can effectively negotiate with commercial carriers and pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term disability.
Employers May Be Liable for Their Drivers’ Negligence
In car accidents, the responsible party is usually the driver alone. In trucking accidents, the employer can often be held accountable under the legal doctrine of respondent superior, which makes companies liable for the actions of their employees within the scope of employment.
This means that if a truck driver caused a crash while making a delivery, the trucking company could be held responsible for the damages. Additionally, liability may also extend to third parties, such as contractors or cargo loaders, if they played a role in the incident. Understanding these layers of accountability is essential when pursuing a claim, which is why working with a personal injury attorney is so crucial in these cases.
The Evidence Requirements Are More Complex
Truck accident investigations involve more types of evidence than a standard vehicle crash. In addition to photographs and witness statements, attorneys often gather data from electronic logging devices, GPS tracking systems, maintenance logs, and driver qualification files. These records are critical to proving violations of federal safety standards or employer negligence.
Preserving this evidence quickly is key. Trucking companies are only required to retain certain records for a limited time, and some may be destroyed within weeks unless a legal hold is issued. At Dixon Law, APC, we know what evidence matters most and how to act quickly to preserve it.
If you’re unsure where to start after a trucking accident, please reach out to us through our contact page to learn how we can assist you.
California’s Role in Truck Accident Claims
California’s fault-based insurance system applies to both truck and car accidents, but state law also influences how these claims unfold. For example, under California Civil Code Section 1714, everyone is liable for injuries caused by their failure to exercise ordinary care. In truck accidents, this extends to both the driver and employer, reinforcing the opportunity for broader recovery.
Moreover, California’s comparative fault rules allow injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, though their award may be reduced proportionally. This is particularly relevant in multi-vehicle collisions, where multiple drivers may share liability. A personal injury lawyer in La Habra can help ensure that liability is assigned correctly and that no one avoids accountability.
Accountability, Recovery, and Legal Advocacy
Victims of truck accidents often experience longer recoveries, higher expenses, and more pressure from insurance companies. Understanding how these collisions differ from car accidents can significantly impact the outcome. When going up against a large company with substantial resources, having the proper legal support becomes absolutely critical.
If you’re recovering from an injury involving a commercial truck, read what past clients have shared on our testimonials page to see how our firm has supported others in similar situations.
Take Control of Your Recovery
Truck accidents are never simple. Between federal regulations, commercial policies, and employer liability, the process is far more demanding than the average car crash claim. At Dixon Law, we utilize our legal expertise and experience to support injury victims in La Habra and throughout California throughout every stage of their case. If you need a personal injury attorney in La Habra, our firm is ready to evaluate your situation, preserve critical evidence, and pursue rightful compensation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and let our firm fight for your future.
