Both car and truck accidents can lead to serious injuries and property damage. However, the differences between the two situations can cause truck accident lawyers to take a particular approach. Here’s a closer look at how collisions involving semi-trucks stand out.
Causes
There are some potential similarities when it comes to the cause of auto and truck wrecks, such as distractions, like phone calls or texting. Speeding can also be a factor in both.Yet, truck drivers can experience exhaustion from working long hours as a result of deadlines.
Federal law dictates that professional drivers can’t drive for more than 11-hours in a row and are required to take a 10-hour break each day. Operating for longer than allowed when the accident occurred can be considered negligent by the court. Other unique causes of large truck collisions include lack of maintenance on the equipment and not taking precautions during certain road conditions, such as adding chains during snow.
Evidence
Operating a truck in a commercial manner also forces truck accident lawyers to approach evidence collection differently. For instance, truck drivers are required to log their driving and rest times. They also have to check-in at weigh stations. An attorney can utilize these records to evaluate drive-time and distance. Any discrepancies can be used to prove long hours or other negligence cause.
Costs
The size and weight of big trucks and their trailers can also cause a significant amount more of damage than a smaller vehicle. As such, the costs of injuries and vehicle damage are likely to exceed a standard car wreck. Commercial operations also up the potential damages because a business is involved as opposed to an individual. These elements usually result in higher compensation requests for personal injury cases.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, reach out to Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC in Onalaska, WI. The local personal injury attorneys provide personalized guidance and aggressive legal representation to accident victims across La Crosse County. Find out how the truck accident lawyers can assist you online or by calling (608) 784-4370.