When someone is involved in a motor vehicle accident, whether it involves a car or a large commercial truck, the aftermath can be overwhelming. However, truck accident lawsuits are fundamentally different from car accident claims in many ways. These differences stem from the size and nature of trucks, the laws regulating them, and the unique challenges victims face when pursuing compensation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone navigating the legal aftermath of a truck crash.
1. Severity of Injuries and Damage
One of the most apparent differences between car and truck accidents lies in the severity of injuries. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to a passenger car that typically weighs between 3,000 and 4,000 pounds. Because of this massive size disparity, crashes involving large trucks often lead to devastating consequences, making truck accident lawsuits far more complex and high-stakes than typical car accident claims.