WIlson and Novak Law Offices Logo

The Differences Between Semi-Truck Accidents and Car Accidents

February 8, 2024

 

 Not all vehicle accidents are the same. Many details and factors can affect an accident case. One of the most important details is the type of vehicle involved. Car accidents and semi-truck accidents are vastly different and can have very different outcomes when you hire an accident lawyer . If you’ve been in an accident, you must understand the differences between these two types of events. Keep reading to learn more.

 

Severity

One of the biggest differences between a car wreck and a semi-truck accident is the severity. Truck accidents are often more damaging simply because of the size of the vehicles in question; essentially, a semi-truck can make a much greater impact than a small car. This causes more damage and greater injuries to passengers that tend to be permanent or long-lasting.


Involvement of Trucking Companies

Another factor that makes a semi-truck accident different is that there's often the involvement of the trucking company to deal with. It’s often necessary to involve the help of an accident lawyer when the semi-truck belongs to a trucking company. If the case escalates into a lawsuit, you might find that it’s necessary to sue not only the driver but the trucking company as well.


If you have a claim against a trucking company, you may also find that you’re dealing with a very aggressive insurance company. This could also entail dealing with aggressive insurance company lawyers. Their goal is almost always to find a way to avoid paying out settlements for these accidents. This is a critical reason that you need a knowledgeable accident lawyer on your side during this type of case.


Complexity

When a semi-truck is involved in a vehicle accident, the case is often more complex. These complexities stem from the fact that more damage and injuries are involved. The case can also become more complex because there are commercial entities involved as far as the trucking company is concerned.


You may also discover that multiple insurance companies are involved as well. There could be multiple insurance companies because the cargo being transported by the truck is insured differently than the truck itself. These complexities can make it difficult for an individual to navigate an accident case on their own. An accident lawyer can be of great assistance in these cases.


Complicated Causes of Accidents

Truck accidents can also differ greatly from regular car accidents when it comes to the causes involved. It’s necessary to determine the cause of the accident to determine who was at fault. The causes of truck accidents can get tricky because semi-truck drivers have different safety requirements than regular drivers. It can also get tricky because other drivers have certain responsibilities when it comes to approaching a semi on the road.


Some accidents are a result of the truck driver not abiding by the necessary safety guidelines; other accidents may occur because the regular vehicle drivers don't provide the proper space and respect for a bigger truck. A truck accident could result because the truck couldn’t stop fast enough when a regular vehicle braked suddenly in front of them. This can be difficult to determine who's at fault since the semi-truck driver is limited when it comes to stopping time.


Equipment failure can also play a part in truck accidents as well. A truck company is required to maintain trucks and equipment according to certain standards. If these standards aren’t upheld, it can result in accidents. This often requires some investigation, which is something that a talented accident lawyer can assist you with.


Safety Regulation Laws

Trucking companies and even independent truck owners are required by federal law to uphold certain safety regulations. An accident lawyer will be well-versed in these laws and will be able to quickly identify when these regulations are being followed. You may not have this information and might miss important details that could help your case if you don't hire a professional.


These are just a few ways in which truck accidents differ from regular car accidents. Having an accident lawyer on your side is essential to the success of your case. It’s estimated that total motor vehicle injury costs were estimated at $498.3 billion in 2021 alone, according to the National Safety Council. If you've been in an accident and want the best chance at a fair settlement from your case, please contact our team at Wilson & Novak Law Offices today.

Understanding Personal Injury Law Basics

April 9, 2025
Navigating the complexities of personal injury law can be daunting. This area of law encompasses a variety of scenarios where individuals suffer harm due to the negligence or intentional actions of others. From automobile accidents to medical malpractice, understanding the fundamentals of filing a claim is crucial for obtaining the compensation you deserve. What Constitutes a Personal Injury Case? A personal injury case arises when a person suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else might be legally responsible for that harm. The responsible party could be an individual, a business, or even a government entity. Common examples of personal injury cases include automobile accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. Key Elements of a Personal Injury Claim To successfully file a personal injury claim, certain elements must be proven: Duty of Care: The defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. Breach of Duty: The defendant breached that duty through negligence or intentional misconduct. Causation: The defendant’s actions directly caused the plaintiff’s injury. Damages: The plaintiff suffered actual damages, such as medical bills or lost wages. Types of Damages in Personal Injury Cases Damages in personal injury cases are typically categorized into two types: economic and non-economic damages. Economic Damages Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses incurred as a result of an injury. These include: Medical Bills: Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and rehabilitation. Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work. Lost Earnings Capacity: Future income lost as a result of long-term disability. Property Damage: Costs for repair or replacement of damaged property, such as a vehicle in car accidents. Non-Economic Damages Non-economic damages are more subjective and may include: Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress. Loss of Consortium: Damages for loss of companionship or spousal support. Diminished Quality of Life: Compensation for a reduced ability to enjoy life’s pleasures. Steps to Filing a Personal Injury Claim Filing a personal injury claim involves several steps, each requiring careful attention to detail. 1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention Prompt medical evaluation is crucial not only for your health but also for establishing a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Medical records will serve as vital evidence in your personal injury case. 2. Gather Evidence Collecting evidence is essential for substantiating your claim. This includes: Photographs of the accident scene and injuries. Police or accident reports. Witness statements. Medical records and bills. 3. Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer Engaging with a qualified injury attorney is advisable to navigate the legal intricacies. A personal injury lawyer can offer expert guidance, negotiate with the insurance company, and advocate on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation. 4. File the Claim A formal claim must be filed with the responsible party's insurance company. This claim should detail the extent of your injuries and damages. An experienced attorney can assist in articulating the intricacies of your case. 5. Negotiate a Settlement Most personal injury claims are resolved through negotiation rather than going to trial. Your attorney will work to secure a settlement that adequately compensates for your losses. If negotiations fail, litigation may be necessary. Statute of Limitations The statute of limitations dictates the time frame within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit. Typically, this period ranges from one to six years from the date of the injury, varying by jurisdiction and case type. Consulting with an attorney promptly ensures compliance with these legal deadlines. The Role of Insurance Companies Insurance companies play a pivotal role in personal injury cases. They are responsible for compensating the injured party, but their primary aim is often to minimize payouts. Therefore, it is crucial to approach negotiations with caution and the support of legal representation. Common Tactics Used by Insurance Companies Delaying the Process: Prolonging the claims process in hopes of wearing down the claimant. Denying Liability: Asserting that their policyholder was not at fault. Underestimating Damages: Offering settlements that do not fully cover the claimant’s losses. Conclusion Understanding the basics of personal injury law empowers you to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Whether dealing with car accidents, medical malpractice, or other injuries, comprehensive knowledge of the legal process and the assistance of an adept personal injury lawyer are invaluable. By recognizing the various facets of filing a claim, the types of damages you can recover, and the tactics employed by insurance companies, you are better equipped to navigate your personal injury case effectively. Always prioritize your health and consult with a professional to guide you through this challenging process. To schedule a case evaluation with Wilson & Novak Law Offices, reach out online or give us a call at 219-757-0225 .
What does a personal injury attorney do

What does a personal injury attorney do?

September 18, 2024
A personal injury lawyer plays a vital role in helping victims of accidents and negligence get the compensation they deserve. From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, they handle all aspects of your case.
Share by: