Here are three of the most significant differences between car accident claims and truck accident claims.
What are the differences between a car accident and a truck accident claim? Ask motorists this question, and many of them will tell you the same thing: there’s no difference because an auto accident is an auto accident. In reality, however, car and truck claims are different. Here are three of the most significant differences between these two claims.
The Causes
We start with the most significant and most obvious difference: the causes of the accidents. Generally, truck wrecks often occur due to equipment failure or the sheer size of the trucks. On the other hand, car wrecks often happen due to human error (speeding, performing illegal maneuvers, misjudging the distance between cars, etc.). While human error if often responsible for truck accidents as well, these cases are often more complicated.
Evidence
Another big difference between a truck and a car injury claim is the type of evidence you’ll include in your claim. When preparing a car accident claim, you need to have evidence like witness statements, photographs, police reports, and more. However, when filing a truck wreck claim, your attorney will use a different set of evidence to prove liability. This may include the driver’s qualifications file, the driver inspection records, delivery documents, maintenance history documentation, weight tickets, trip envelopes, and more.
Also, evidence collection in truck accident cases generally takes a tad longer than in car accident cases.
Federal and State Trucking Laws
Truckers are typically held to higher legal standards and are governed by more stringent federal and state trucking laws. For instance, Missouri truckers are required to know how to load and properly secure the cargo safely. There are also rules that stipulate the number of hours a trucker can drive each day and shift.
Experienced truck accident attorneys generally understand the ins and outs of car and trucking laws and regulations and can help you develop a strategy that will help you prove the driver who caused your accident was negligent.
Speak With an Experienced Attorney
Whether you’ve been injured in a truck or car accident, one thing remains true: You may be entitled to financial compensation. That said, it’s worth noting that you may end up settling for less than you deserve without the help of an experienced car accident attorney. Your attorney can help you file your claim on time, collect strong evidence, and help you understand the full extent of your injury-related losses. They’ll also help you convince the insurer or judge your claim has merit.
The Hoffmann Law Firm Is Here to Help!
Have you been injured in a St. Louis auto accident and would like to speak with an attorney about filing an injury claim? The Hoffmann Law Firm can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!