Baxley Maniscalco Attorneys At Law
A trucking case is a legal case involving a large truck, such as an 18-wheeler or box truck, and usually involves a collision with another vehicle. You will frequently hear a large truck referred to as a CMV, which is short for commercial motor vehicle.
Technically, the definition of a CMV includes box trucks, 18-wheelers, buses, and other vehicles involved in interstate commerce. Trucking cases can involve a wide range of legal issues, including personal injury and property damage, and require a high level of expertise by a seasoned trucking litigation attorney.
What Types of Cases Involve Trucking?
There are several types of cases that may involve trucking, either as the primary focus of the case or as a contributing factor. Some examples of cases that may involve trucking include:
1. Trucking accidents: Collisions involving trucks, whether involving a single truck or multiple vehicles. These cases may involve injuries to the truck driver, passengers in other vehicles, or pedestrians.
2. Trucking regulation violations: Cases involving allegations of violations of federal or state trucking regulations by trucking companies or drivers.
3. Trucking contracts: Cases involving disputes over contracts between trucking companies and their customers or other parties.
4. Trucking insurance: Cases involving disputes over insurance coverage for accidents or other incidents involving trucks.
Cases involving trucking can be complex and may involve a wide range of legal issues, including issues related to liability, regulation, contracts, and insurance.
There are several types of electronic data that should be preserved after a trucking accident in order to help determine the cause of the accident and establish liability. Some examples of electronic data that should be preserved include:
1. Electronic logging device (ELD) data: Many trucks are equipped with electronic logging devices (ELDs) that track the hours of service and location of the truck. This data can be valuable in determining whether the driver was in compliance with hours of service regulations and other laws and regulations.
2. Vehicle event data recorder (VEDR) data: Many trucks are also equipped with vehicle event data recorders (VEDRs), which record data related to the vehicle's operation and performance. This data can be valuable in determining the cause of the accident, such as whether the truck had mechanical issues or the driver was operating the vehicle improperly.
3. GPS data: Trucks may also have GPS systems that record the location and movement of the vehicle. This data can be useful in determining the events leading up to the accident and in reconstructing the accident scene.
4. Electronic communication data: Trucks may have electronic communication systems, such as email or text messaging systems, that could contain relevant information related to the accident.
It is important to preserve all relevant electronic data after a trucking accident in order to fully understand the circumstances of the accident and establish liability.
How Can Electronic Data Be Obtained From an 18-Wheeler or Other CMV?
There are several ways to obtain the electronic data off a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) after it has been involved in a collision. Some of the steps that should be taken to obtain this data include:
1. Identify the electronic systems on the CMV: The first step in obtaining electronic data from a CMV is to identify the electronic systems that are present on the vehicle. This may include systems such as an electronic logging device (ELD), a vehicle event data recorder (VEDR), or a GPS system.
2. Determine the type of data stored: Once the electronic systems on the CMV have been identified, it is important to determine the type of data that is stored on these systems. This may include data such as hours of service records, vehicle performance data, or location data.
3. Retrieve the data: There are several ways to retrieve the data from the electronic systems on the CMV, depending on the specific system and the data being sought. Some common methods of data retrieval include downloading the data directly from the system, using specialized software to extract the data, or using physical devices such as USB drives or hard drives to copy the data.
4. Analyze the data: Once the data has been retrieved, it can be analyzed to understand the events leading up to and during the collision. This may involve reviewing the data to identify patterns or trends, or using specialized software to visualize the data and reconstruct the collision.
Obtaining electronic data from a CMV after a collision can be a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. It is often necessary to work with experts in the field to ensure that the data is accurately retrieved and analyzed.
What Experts Specialize in Obtaining Data From Commercial Trucks?
There are several types of experts who may be involved in retrieving electronic data from commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) after a collision. Some examples of experts who may be involved in this process include:
1. Electronic technicians: Electronic technicians are experts in the repair and maintenance of electronic systems, and may be able to retrieve data from electronic systems on CMVs. The specific types of experts who may be involved in retrieving electronic data from CMVs after a collision will depend on the specific electronic systems present on the vehicle and the type of data being sought. It is often necessary to work with a team of experts with specialized knowledge and skills in order to effectively retrieve and analyze the data.
2. Computer forensic experts: Computer forensic experts specialize in the retrieval and analysis of digital data, and may be able to extract data from electronic systems on CMVs using specialized software and equipment.
3. Accident reconstruction experts: Accident reconstruction experts are trained to analyze the events leading up to and during a collision, and may be able to use electronic data from CMVs to reconstruct the collision and determine its cause. Accident reconstruction experts may give testimony on the positions of the vehicles, the speeds of the vehicles, and the forces involved in the collision.
4. Transportation safety experts: Transportation safety experts are experts in the field of transportation safety and may be able to provide insights into the causes and contributing factors of a collision involving a CMV.
5. Engineering experts: Engineering experts may provide expertise on such issues as vehicle design and operation and defects in the truck. An engineering expert may be able to provide testimony on the design and operation of the truck and its equipment, including the brakes, steering, and other systems. This may include testimony on the suitability of the design and operation of these systems for the intended use of the truck. If a defect in the truck or its equipment is alleged to have caused or contributed to the collision, an engineering expert may be able to provide testimony on the nature and cause of the defect and its potential effects on the vehicle's performance. This testimony can be critical to establishing liability in a trucking injury case.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Collisions
There are several types of trucking collisions that are common on the roads, including:
Rear-end collisions
These collisions occur when a truck strikes the rear of another vehicle. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including following too closely, failing to maintain control of the vehicle, or failing to react to traffic conditions.
Head-on collisions
These collisions occur when a truck collides with another vehicle head-on. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including crossing the centerline, drifting out of the lane, or attempting to pass other vehicles in an unsafe manner.
Side-impact collisions
These collisions occur when a truck strikes the side of another vehicle. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including failing to yield the right-of-way, running a red light or stop sign, or attempting to merge into traffic without looking.
Rollover collisions
These collisions occur when a truck overturns or rolls onto its side. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including driver error, improper loading of the truck, or defects in the truck or its equipment.
Jackknife collisions
These collisions occur when the trailer of a truck folds back on itself, forming a jackknife shape. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including excessive braking, improper maintenance of the brakes, or improper operation of the truck.
Overall, trucking collisions can be caused by a variety of factors, including driver error, improper maintenance of the truck, and defects in the truck or its equipment. These types of collisions can have serious and often life-threatening consequences for all parties involved.
What Rules Govern Trucking Companies and Their Drivers?
Trucking companies are subject to a wide range of federal laws that are designed to promote safety and protect the public. Some examples of federal laws that apply to trucking companies include:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs): The FMCSRs are a set of regulations that apply to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and their drivers. The FMCSRs cover a wide range of topics, including hours of service, vehicle maintenance, driver qualifications, and hazardous materials transportation.
- The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act (FMCSA): The FMCSA is a federal law that establishes the FMCSRs and provides the authority for the FMCSA to enforce these regulations. The FMCSA also provides for the establishment of a federal motor carrier safety program, which is designed to improve safety in the trucking industry.
- The Department of Transportation's (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations: The DOT's drug and alcohol testing regulations apply to trucking companies and other employers who are required to have a DOT drug and alcohol testing program. These regulations establish requirements for the testing of drivers and other safety-sensitive employees for drug and alcohol use.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): The OSHA is a federal law that establishes safety and health standards for the workplace. This law applies to trucking companies and requires them to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees.
What Is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and What Does It Do?
Trucking companies involved in interstate commerce (crossing state lines for business purposes) are subject to the regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is an agency of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) that is responsible for regulating the trucking and bus industry in the United States. The FMCSA was established in 2000 as part of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving CMVs.
The FMCSA has a number of responsibilities, including:
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Setting and enforcing safety regulations for trucking and bus companies, including regulations on hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and drug and alcohol testing
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Conducting inspections and audits of trucking and bus companies to ensure compliance with safety regulations
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Promoting safety education and training programs for truck and bus drivers
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Collecting and analyzing data on truck and bus crashes and injuries to identify trends and develop safety programs
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Administering grant programs to fund safety initiatives and projects
The FMCSA plays a crucial role in promoting the safety of commercial motor vehicles in the United States and helping to reduce the number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving these vehicles.
What Safety Regulations Apply to Truck Drivers?
There are a number of safety regulations that apply to truck drivers in the United States. These regulations are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Some of the key safety regulations that apply to truck drivers include:
1. Hours of service regulations: Truck drivers are subject to strict hours of service regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive and the amount of time they must rest between shifts. These regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, which can be a major cause of truck accidents.
2. Driver qualifications: The FMCSRs establish requirements for the qualifications of CMV drivers, including age requirements, medical certification, and training requirements.
3. Drug and alcohol testing: Truck drivers are subject to drug and alcohol testing to ensure that they are fit to drive. Trucking companies are required to test their drivers for drugs and alcohol before hiring them and at random intervals thereafter. Drivers who test positive for drugs or alcohol are not allowed to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Vehicle maintenance: Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles in a safe and operable condition. This includes regularly inspecting and maintaining the brakes, tires, and other critical systems on the truck.
5. Training and licensing: Truck drivers are required to hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and to have received proper training and instruction on how to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.
6. Hazardous materials transportation: The FMCSRs establish requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials, including requirements for the training of drivers and the labeling and placarding of vehicles.
7. Size and weight: The FMCSRs establish limits on the size and weight of CMVs in order to ensure that they can be operated safely on the road.
These safety regulations are designed to promote the safety of truck drivers and the public and to reduce the number of truck accidents on the road.
What Requirements Do Truck Drivers Have to Meet to Obtain a CDL?
To receive a commercial driver's license (CDL), individuals must complete a training program that meets the standards established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). CDL training programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience.
In order to enroll in a CDL training program, individuals must typically meet the following requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old (or 21 years old for interstate driving)
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Have a valid driver's license
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Have a clean driving record (no major traffic violations in the past year)
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Pass a physical exam and drug test
Once enrolled in a CDL training program, students will typically receive instruction on a variety of topics, including:
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Federal and state laws and regulations related to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs)
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Safe driving techniques and defensive driving skills
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Vehicle inspection and maintenance
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Handling hazardous materials
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Operating a CMV in various weather and traffic conditions
After completing the classroom portion of the training program, students will typically receive hands-on driving experience with a qualified instructor. This may include driving on public roads as well as practicing maneuvers in a controlled environment.
Once they have completed their training, individuals can apply for a CDL by taking a written test and a skills test. Upon passing these tests and meeting all other requirements, they will be issued a CDL, which allows them to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
Can a Truck Driver Lose Their CDL?
Yes. There are several circumstances that can cause a driver to lose their commercial driver's license (CDL). Some of the most common reasons for CDL revocation or suspension include:
1. Traffic violations:
Drivers who accumulate a certain number of traffic violations within a certain time period may have their CDL suspended or revoked. Examples of traffic violations that can result in CDL suspension or revocation include speeding, reckless driving, and operating a CMV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
2. Failure to meet medical standards:
Drivers must meet certain medical standards in order to hold a CDL. If a driver is found to have a medical condition that could affect their ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle, their CDL may be suspended or revoked.
3. Fraud or false statements:
Drivers who make false statements or engage in fraud in connection with their CDL application or renewal may have their CDL suspended or revoked.
4. Driving while disqualified:
Drivers who operate a commercial motor vehicle while their CDL is suspended or revoked may have their CDL permanently disqualified.
What Specific Circumstances Will Cause a Truck Driver to Lose Their CDL?
The number of traffic violations that will result in the suspension of a commercial driver's license (CDL) varies depending on the specific violation and the circumstances surrounding it. In general, however, drivers who accumulate a certain number of violations within a certain time period may be at risk of having their CDL suspended.
Under federal regulations, drivers who accumulate any of the following violations may be subject to CDL suspension or revocation:
1. Operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while under the influence of drugs or alcohol: One violation of this nature can result in a one-year disqualification for a first offense and a lifetime disqualification for a second offense.
2. Refusing to submit to a required drug or alcohol test: One violation of this nature can result in a one-year disqualification for a first offense and a lifetime disqualification for a second offense.
3. Using a CMV to commit a felony: A conviction of this nature can result in a lifetime disqualification.
4. Leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV: One violation of this nature can result in a one-year disqualification for a first offense and a lifetime disqualification for a second offense.
What Are Hours of Service Regulations That Apply to Truck Drivers?
The hours of service regulations are a set of rules that govern the amount of time that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers can spend driving and working. These regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, which can be a major cause of truck accidents.
The hours of service regulations apply to drivers who operate CMVs in interstate commerce (meaning they cross state lines). The specific regulations vary depending on the type of vehicle being operated and the type of cargo being carried.
Generally, the hours of service regulations for CMV drivers in interstate commerce are as follows:
1. Maximum driving time: Drivers may not drive for more than 11 hours in a single day, and they must take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty before starting a new work day.
2. Maximum on-duty time: Drivers may not be on duty (including driving and other work) for more than 14 hours in a single day. After being on duty for 14 hours, they must take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty before starting a new work day.
3. Rest breaks: Drivers must take at least a 30-minute break after driving for 8 hours.
4. Weekly limits: Drivers may not drive after accumulating 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days. After reaching this limit, they must take at least 34 consecutive hours off duty before starting a new work week.
5. Record keeping: Drivers must keep a record of their hours of service using a logbook or an electronic logging device (ELD).
The hours of service regulations are designed to ensure that CMV drivers get sufficient rest and do not exceed safe levels of driving and work time.
What Are the Inspection Requirements for an 18-Wheeler?
18 Wheelers and other commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) must be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in safe and operable condition. The frequency of these inspections depends on a number of factors, including the type of CMV, the type of cargo being transported, and the specific regulations that apply in the state where the CMV is operated.
Under federal regulations, CMVs that are used in interstate commerce (meaning they cross state lines) must be inspected at least once every year. These inspections are typically conducted by trained professionals who are authorized to perform safety inspections on CMVs.
In addition to the annual inspection, CMVs must also be inspected whenever they are involved in an accident, or when they are found to have mechanical defects that could affect their safe operation. These inspections are typically conducted by a qualified mechanic or other qualified individual.
The frequency of CMV inspections is designed to ensure that these vehicles are safe and operable, and to reduce the risk of accidents caused by mechanical defects or other issues.
What Responsibilities Do Trucking Companies Have to Keep the Public Safe?
Trucking companies have a responsibility to keep the public safe by maintaining and operating their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner. To fulfill this responsibility, trucking companies are required to take a variety of measures, including:
1. Complying with regulations: Trucking companies are subject to a wide range of regulations and standards that are designed to promote safety. This may include regulations related to hours of service, vehicle maintenance, driver training, and other areas.
2. Training drivers: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their drivers are properly trained to operate their vehicles safely. This includes providing training on topics such as defensive driving, vehicle maintenance, and handling emergencies.
3. Maintaining vehicles: Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in a safe and operable condition. This includes regularly inspecting and repairing vehicles, as well as ensuring that they are loaded and secured properly.
4. Monitoring drivers: Trucking companies are responsible for monitoring their drivers to ensure that they are operating their vehicles safely. This includes using electronic logging devices (ELDs) to track hours of service and location, as well as conducting random drug and alcohol tests.
What Experts Will a Trucking Attorney Use to Prove a Plaintiff’s Injury Case?
There are several types of experts who may testify in a trucking injury case, depending on the specific issues at hand. Some examples of experts who may be called to testify in a trucking injury case include:
Medical experts
Medical experts may be called to testify about the injuries sustained in the accident and the treatment received. This may include doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who treated the injured party.
Accident reconstruction experts
Accident reconstruction experts are trained to analyze the events leading up to and during an accident in order to determine its cause. They use a variety of methods and techniques to gather and analyze data, including studying physical evidence at the accident scene, reviewing witness statements, and examining electronic data from vehicles or other sources. They may be called to testify about the cause of the accident and any contributing factors, such as driver behavior, vehicle performance, or environmental conditions. They may also be asked to provide testimony about the events leading up to the accident, such as the speed and location of the vehicles involved, or the actions of the drivers.
In order to become an accident reconstruction expert, individuals typically need to have a strong background in a related field, such as engineering, physics, or mathematics. They may also need to complete specialized training in accident reconstruction techniques, such as courses offered by professional organizations or universities.
Transportation safety experts
Transportation safety experts are experts in the field of transportation safety and may be able to provide insights into the cause of the accident and any violations of regulations or standards that may have contributed to the accident. They may have a variety of backgrounds, including engineering, public health, or transportation management.
In a trucking injury case, transportation safety experts may be called to testify about a variety of issues related to the safety of the trucking industry. For example, they may be asked to provide testimony about the regulations and standards that apply to the trucking industry, including hours of service regulations, vehicle maintenance standards, and driver training requirements.
Transportation safety experts may also be able to provide testimony about the causes of a specific trucking accident, including any violations of regulations or standards that may have contributed to the accident.
They may also provide testimony about common practices in the trucking industry that impact safety, such as the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) or the hiring and training of drivers.
Finally, transportation safety experts can provide testimony about the risks associated with the trucking industry and how to mitigate those risks.
Economic experts
Economic experts may be called to testify about the financial impacts of the accident, including lost wages and medical expenses.
Psychological experts
Psychological experts may be called to testify about the psychological effects of the accident on the injured party.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Trucking Collisions?
Trucking crashes can be caused by a wide range of factors, but some of the most common causes include:
Driver fatigue
One of the leading causes of trucking crashes is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours and may be on the road for extended periods of time, which can lead to fatigue and impaired performance. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), fatigue is a contributing factor in approximately 13% of all large truck crashes.
Distracted driving
Like other drivers, truck drivers may be distracted by a variety of things, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Distracted driving can increase the risk of a crash. Distracted driving is a leading cause of trucking collisions. According to the FMCSA, approximately 10% of all large truck crashes are caused by distracted driving.
Improperly maintained vehicles
If a truck is not properly maintained, it may be more likely to experience mechanical problems or break down, which can lead to a crash. The FMCSA estimates that approximately 20% of all large truck crashes are caused by mechanical failures or other vehicle-related issues.
Speeding
Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, and as a result, they require more time and distance to come to a stop. If a truck driver is speeding, they may be less able to react to changing traffic conditions or other hazards. According to the FMCSA, approximately 21% of all large truck crashes are caused by speeding.
Improper loading
If a truck is loaded improperly, it may be more likely to tip over or lose control, which can lead to a crash. The FMCSA estimates that approximately 5% of all large truck crashes are caused by improper loading or overloading of the vehicle.
Statistics on Collisions Involving Large Trucks in the United States
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
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There were 4,142 large trucks and buses involved in fatal crashes in the United States in 2020.
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These crashes resulted in 4,761 fatalities.
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Large trucks were involved in 11% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities.
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Of the fatalities in large truck crashes, 73% were occupants of other vehicles, and 27% were truck occupants.
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Approximately 18% of all large truck crash fatalities involved a truck that was carrying hazardous materials.
In addition, there were approximately 500,000 crashes involving large trucks and buses in the United States in 2020, resulting in approximately 116,000 injuries.
It is important to note that these numbers represent only a portion of the total number of motor vehicle crashes that occurred in the United States in 2020. The NHTSA estimates that there were approximately 40 million motor vehicle crashes in the United States in 2020, resulting in approximately 4.8 million injuries and 37,000 fatalities.
Fortunately, the number of crashes involving large trucks and buses has been steadily decreasing in recent years. From 2010 to 2020, the number of fatal crashes involving large trucks and buses decreased by approximately 23%.
Common Injuries Resulting From Trucking Collisions
In addition to fatalities, trucking collisions can also result in catastrophic injuries, which are severe and often permanent injuries that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Some examples of catastrophic injuries that may result from a trucking collision include:
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Amputations
Amputations can result from a trucking collision if a person's limbs are severely injured or crushed by the collision. These types of injuries can occur if a person is struck by an object, crushed by the vehicle, or thrown from the vehicle.
Some common types of amputations that may result from a trucking collision include:
- Partial amputations: These are amputations in which only part of a limb is removed. Partial amputations may be necessary if the limb is severely damaged but can still be saved.
- Complete amputations: These are amputations in which the entire limb is removed. Complete amputations may be necessary if the limb is severely damaged and cannot be saved.
- Disarticulation: This is the amputation of a limb at a joint, such as the shoulder or hip. Disarticulation may be necessary if the limb is severely damaged and cannot be saved.
Amputations have serious and devastating consequences for a person's quality of life. They cause severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges, and they require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Trucking collisions are a leading cause of amputations, and these types of injuries have a profound impact on the lives of those affected.
Burns
Some common ways that burns can occur in a trucking collision include:
- Chemical spills: If a truck is carrying hazardous materials, such as chemicals or flammable liquids, a collision can result in the release of these materials. If the materials come into contact with skin or clothing, they can cause burns.
- Fire: A trucking collision can also result in a fire, which can cause burns to all parties involved. Fires may be caused by the ignition of flammable materials, such as gasoline or diesel fuel, or by electrical sparks or short circuits.
- Thermal burns: Thermal burns can occur if a person is trapped in a burning vehicle or if they come into contact with hot surfaces or objects. These types of burns can be caused by the heat generated by the collision, such as the heat from a vehicle engine or exhaust system, or by other sources of heat, such as a roadside fire.
Burns can be serious and often life-threatening injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Multiple fractures
Trucking collisions can result in a wide range of fractures, depending on the specific circumstances of the collision and the types of forces involved. Some of the most common fractures that may be caused by a trucking collision include:
- Fractures of the arms and legs: These are some of the most common fractures that can be caused by a trucking collision. They may occur as a result of being thrown from the vehicle, being struck by an object, or being crushed by the vehicle.
- Fractures of the pelvis: The pelvis is a large, weight-bearing bone that is vulnerable to fractures in a trucking collision. Pelvic fractures can be caused by being struck by an object, being crushed by the vehicle, or being thrown from the vehicle.
- Fractures of the spine: The spine is another common site of fractures in a trucking collision. Spinal fractures can occur as a result of being struck by an object, being crushed by the vehicle, or being thrown from the vehicle.
- Fractures of the skull: The skull is another bone that is vulnerable to fractures in a trucking collision. Skull fractures can be caused by being struck by an object, being crushed by the vehicle, or being thrown from the vehicle.
The types of fractures that can be caused by a trucking collision will depend on the specific circumstances of the collision and the types of forces involved.
These fractures can have serious and often long-lasting consequences, and they may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Force of Impact in a Collision With a Truck
Trucking collisions typically involve significantly more force of impact than car collisions due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, and as a result, they have more mass and momentum. This means that when a truck collides with another vehicle, the force of impact is generally much greater than it would be in a collision between two passenger vehicles.
There are several factors that can contribute to the force of impact in a trucking collision, including the speed of the vehicles at the time of the collision, the angle of the collision, and the type of vehicles involved. In general, the greater the speed of the vehicles and the more severe the angle of the collision, the greater the force of impact will be.
The force of impact in a trucking collision can have serious and often fatal consequences for all parties involved. It can cause serious injuries, such as fractures, internal injuries, and head injuries, and it can also result in fatalities. The force of impact in a trucking collision is one of the main reasons why these types of collisions are often more serious than car collisions.
WEIGHT AS A MAJOR Contributing Factors to the force of impact in a collision with a truck
Trucks are generally much heavier than passenger vehicles, and this added weight can contribute to the force of impact in a collision. According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the average weight of a large truck is approximately 80,000 pounds, while the average weight of a passenger vehicle is approximately 4,000 pounds.
Get the Experienced Legal Representation You Deserve
Facing the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming. Between medical bills, lost wages, and dealing with insurance companies, you need someone strong in your corner.
At Baxley Maniscalco, our Alabama-based commercial vehicle accident lawyers have a proven track record of fighting for maximum compensation for our clients.
We understand the complexities of these cases and know how to navigate the legal system to recover the damages you deserve.
Don't wait: Call us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on your feet.