How Truck/Big Rig Accidents are Different
Accidents can range from relatively minor to extremely serious. The type of accident you’re involved in can make a big difference. Truck or big rig accidents differ significantly from traditional car accidents, and it’s important to understand the implications if you find yourself in one.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what makes truck or big rig accidents different from car accidents so that you can be better prepared if you ever find yourself involved. Stay safe out there!
Different Rules
Truck and big rig accidents are different from other car accidents for several reasons.
First, trucks are subject to different rules and regulations than other vehicles on the road. This is because trucks are larger and heavier than other vehicles, and they can cause more damage in an accident.
As a result, truck drivers must be more careful when driving, and they must follow specific rules to keep the roads safe.
Second, truck accidents often involve multiple vehicles, making the situation even more chaotic and difficult to deal with. In addition, there may be more property damage in a truck accident and more serious injuries compared to a car accident. This is why it is important to seek the help of an experienced attorney if you have been involved in a truck accident. With their knowledge of the unique laws and regulations governing trucks, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Injuries and Damages
In addition to causing more extensive property damage, truck accidents tend to result in more serious injuries for those involved. This is due to many factors, including the sheer size and weight of the vehicles and trucks often carrying hazardous materials.
As a result, truck accident victims often face a long road to recovery, with mounting medical bills and lost wages, which are often much higher than those from a regular car accident.
Increased Death Rate
One of the most notable differences in truck/big rig accidents is the increased death rate. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 4,014 people died from large truck/big rig crashes in 2020. Several factors, which have been mentioned above, contribute to this increased risk; it’s the nature of these vehicles to have a higher death rate compared to passenger cars.
Greater Insurance Policies
The average passenger vehicle is only required to carry a relatively small amount of insurance, while trucks are required to carry much greater insurance coverage. This is because the potential damages in a truck accident are often much more significant than in a typical car accident.
As a result, when truck accidents do occur, they often result in much more property damage and personal injury than other types of motor vehicle accidents. For these reasons, it is important to ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage if you are involved in a truck accident.
What to do If you find yourself involved in a truck/big rig accident
If you find yourself involved in a truck or big rig accident, the first thing to do is to stay calm and assess the situation.
Call 911 and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. If you are injured, do not try to move; let the paramedics assess your injuries and provide treatment.
If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
Once the police arrive, tell them what happened and give them your insurance information. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and get the contact information of any witnesses. You should also exchange information with the truck driver.
Get their name, contact information, and license plate number. You will need this information when you file your accident report.
Taking these steps can help ensure your safety and give you the best chance of receiving compensation for any damages you have incurred.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is important to seek experienced legal representation to protect your rights. An experienced attorney will be familiar with the unique issues involved in these cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve
Conclusion
If you’re involved in an accident with a large truck or big rig, it is important to know what steps to take and who to call for help. By following the proper protocol and contacting an experienced attorney, you can ensure that your case is handled correctly and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you have any questions about what to do after a truck accident, contact Terhovsepian Law today. We would happily answer your questions and help you get started on your claim.