Posted on Monday, June 9th, 2025 at 11:24 am
When a large commercial truck is involved in a crash, the outcome is often far more severe than a typical car accident. Trucking accidents involve unique legal and logistical challenges that set them apart and make navigating the aftermath much more complex. Below, Tiemann Law Firm outlines the circumstances that set these types of accidents apart.
1. Size and Weight Disparity
Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—nearly 20 times the weight of a passenger vehicle. This sheer size difference means that even low-speed collisions can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities to other drivers and passengers.
2. Multiple Liable Parties
Unlike most car accidents, trucking accidents often involve several potentially liable parties. The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance crew, and even truck manufacturers may share responsibility. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation and a deep understanding of trucking industry practices.
3. Federal Regulations
The trucking industry is heavily regulated by federal laws enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules cover driver hours, maintenance logs, cargo limits, and more. Violations of these regulations are often taken into account when examining a case.
4. Complex Insurance Policies
Trucking companies typically carry high-limit insurance policies, but these policies are often layered and difficult to navigate. Insurers will do everything possible to minimize payouts, making it crucial to have an attorney who understands commercial trucking claims and can work to get you the compensation you deserve.
5. In-Depth Investigations Needed
Trucking accidents often require accident reconstruction, black box data analysis, and expert testimony. Immediate legal action is critical to preserve evidence such as logbooks, GPS data, and vehicle maintenance records.
When involved in this type of accident, you need an experienced attorney on your side who is knowledgeable and knows how to navigate these cases. In reality, they’re more than just “big car accidents”—they’re legal battles involving powerful companies and complex laws.
If you have a case and need guidance, support, and advice, contact the truck accident injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm. Call us today to set up a free, same-day consultation at (916) 999-9000.
