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This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified personal injury attorney regarding any legal issues related to commercial truck accidents.
INJURY TYPES
Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial Truck Accidents:
What You Need to Know
Injured in a truck accident? You’re not alone.
These crashes aren’t like regular car accidents. The damage is bigger. The injuries are worse. And the legal process? Way more complex.
If a commercial truck driver was at fault, you have rights—and you deserve compensation.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know:
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How fault is determined
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What damages you can recover
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Why you need an expert truck accident attorney on your side
Take Action Now:
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Truck accident cases are complex. Trucking companies fight hard to pay you as little as possible.
You need a lawyer who fights back.
Call 800-539-3319 now for a free consultation.
Prefer online? Answer a few quick questions below to get started.
Your case matters. Your recovery matters. Let’s fight for what’s yours.
Why Commercial Truck Accidents Are Different
Truck accidents are devastating.
Unlike typical car accidents, these cases often involve multiple liable parties—the driver, the trucking company, even third-party contractors. And figuring out who’s at fault is key to getting the compensation you deserve.
Massive Vehicles = Catastrophic Damage
Complex Liability = Multiple Parties may be Responsible
Federal Trucking Laws = Specific Regulations that Impact your Case
Who’s Responsible?
How Fault Is Determined
Establishing liability in a truck accident isn’t simple. Here’s who might be responsible:
The Truck Driver
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Speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence
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Violating hours-of-service laws (driving longer than allowed)
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Falsifying driver logs or skipping required breaks
The Trucking Company
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Forcing drivers to work past legal limits
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Skipping required safety training
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Ignoring federal trucking regulations
Maintenance & Equipment Issues
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Mechanical failures caused by poor maintenance
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Defective brakes, tires, or steering
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Cargo overloaded or improperly secured
How Do You Prove Fault?
What Kind of Evidence is Used
Attorneys use:
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Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track driver activity
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Truck dashcams for video evidence
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Accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene
Case in point: In Rodriguez v. National Motor Freight, a trucking company was held accountable for allowing an exhausted driver to work past legal hours—resulting in a massive settlement.
Your Legal Options After a Truck Accident
You might be surprised at what you can claim.
Here’s what’s usually on the list:
Medical Bills
Covers hospital stays, surgeries, rehab, and future treatments
Lost Wages
Reimbursement for time off work (plus lost future earnings)
Property Damage
Repair or replacement of your vehicle
Pain & Suffering
Compensation for physical
and emotional trauma
Loss of Quality of Life
For the impacts to your daily routine, hobbies, or relationships
Punitive Damages
Extra compensation if gross
negligence is proven
Why You Need a Truck Accident Attorney
Going up against trucking companies alone? Bad idea.
They have lawyers. You need one too.
An experienced truck accident attorney helps you:
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Investigate the accident and gather crucial evidence
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Prove fault (whether it’s the driver, company, or manufacturer)
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Negotiate with insurance companies (who will lowball you every time)
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Take your case to court if necessary
And the best part? Most truck accident lawyers work on contingency.
No upfront costs. You only pay if you win.
Wrongful Death Claims After a Truck Accident
Lost a loved one in a truck accident? You may be eligible for a wrongful death claim.
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Loss of future income – If they were the primary earner
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Funeral & burial costs – Expenses covered by the claim
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Loss of companionship – Emotional distress for family members
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Punitive damages – If negligence was extreme, the court may award extra compensation
Example: In Smith v. XYZ Trucking Co., a family won a major settlement after proving that a trucking company forced drivers to skip required safety checks.
Important: Wrongful death lawsuits have strict time limits (varies by state). The sooner you act, the better.
How to Choose the Right Truck Accident Lawyer
Not all attorneys are created equal.
Here’s what to look for:
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Proven experience – Specializes in truck accident and wrongful death cases
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No upfront fees – Works on a contingency basis
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Strong client reviews – Check testimonials & case results
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Free consultation – Get answers before you commit
Pro Tip: Most top lawyers offer free case evaluations. Take advantage of this and ask tough questions before hiring.