Road accidents are unfortunate events that can cause significant harm to individuals and property damage. Accidents involving trucks, especially those weighing over 10,000 pounds, could be more complex and more involved than smaller cars. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were over 450,000 accidents reported in 2017, with over 4,200 fatalities involving large trucks and buses.
1. Trucks Operate Under Different Regulations:
Unlike cars, trucks should comply with different regulations set to ensure road safety. These regulations include vehicle maintenance schedules, driver's licenses, training, and safety standards. Before a truck hits the road, the driver and the company must meet all the set regulations. This process is time-consuming and requires more effort compared to a regular car. Failure to adhere to these regulations can cause serious accidents, and there can be severe repercussions due to violating said regulations. These regulations are up to the Federal Government to enforce, making them a more complicated process than individual states’ vehicle laws.
2. Trucks are Larger and Heavier:
A loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making them significantly larger and heavier than regular cars. The larger the truck, the more significant the impact it will have in case of an accident. This impact can cause more severe injuries and damage. Due to their large size, trucks need more time to stop or change lanes and a longer braking distance to avoid accidents. Drivers need to maintain a safe distance between the truck and other drivers on the road to prevent famous truck underrides, as these are very dangerous and can be fatal if the fully loaded truck doesn’t have the correct protective equipment.
3. Truck Drivers are Professionals:
Truck drivers undergo significant training and licensing processes before getting behind the wheel of a truck. Despite the rigorous screening and selection procedure, truck drivers are still human and can make mistakes that cause accidents. Additionally, truckers operate under strict performance requirements that limit their working hours and require them to follow regulatory guidelines that other drivers generally do not need to consider. In some cases, drivers may experience fatigue, stress, or distractions that can affect their driving abilities, significantly increasing the chances of fatal crashes.
4. Trucking Accidents Involve Multiple Parties:
In most car accidents, the blame is typically directed at one driver. On the other hand, a truck accident can easily involve multiple parties. A truck accident can involve:
- The truck driver.
- The trucking company.
- The cargo owners.
- The manufacturer of faulty parts.
- Other drivers on the road.
This makes navigating the following logistics and legal proceedings more complex, as more people may require legal representation. There also may be more obstacles when proving fault or assessing damages.
Missouri Truck Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, it is crucial to seek legal help. At Price & Randle, LLC, we understand the complexities of trucking accidents and can help you navigate through the legal process. Contact us today at (573) 240-8866 for a consultation.