What Is Different About a Crash With a Big Truck?

Legal Tips and Resources

Motor vehicle accidents can range from minor to severe. These accidents tend to result in fewer fatalities unless the circumstances surrounding the crash are extreme.

However, in the event you find yourself in a crash with a semi, the chances of walking away with few or no injuries decreases. These big rigs pack a powerful punch, and coming into any contact with them can crush even the sturdiest vehicle. Getting into an accident with a big rig is much different than another car for a variety of reasons. Examine some of these so you can be on the lookout for them.

More Fatalities With More Weight

The chance of suffering what is known as a catastrophic injury increases greatly when dealing with a car versus semi-truck accident. The sheer size of these big trucks adds to this chance. A catastrophic injury is one which substantially changes the quality of life for someone. It usually involves:

  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Amputation

While the severity of traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries may vary, the outcome typically results in injuries that change your life.

Higher Insurance Limits

Semi-trucks are insured for more money than vehicles. A typical policy limit for a big truck is $1,000,000. This higher number is due to the risk involved should a truck collide with a car. Even a truck-on-truck accident may result in catastrophic injuries or fatality. Thus, getting in a crash with one of this rigs may get you more significant damages should that driver be found responsible for the accident. This may be of little consolation when you think about what kind of pain you might endure being awarded these limits.

Litigation May Look Different

A truck accident lawyer may need to present evidence in court as to the reasons behind the accident. If the driver of the truck is at fault, and the lawyer representing you, they may focus on things you may not expect when putting on the case. Three of the big focal points in any motor vehicle versus semi accident are the weight of the truck, the driver of the truck and the car involved. Since the type of load the truck was carrying adds weight, which may have contributed to the chain of events leading to the accident, it is something a plaintiff’s attorney focuses on in court proceedings.

An accident between a car and semi-truck is a nightmare scenario for many. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, a truck accident lawyer in Fredericksburg, VA may be able to help you recover the damages you need to get a lifetime of care.

Thanks to MartinWren, P.C. for their insight into personal injury claims and how truck accidents are different than car accidents.