The results of an accident involving a semi-truck and a typical passenger vehicle are often tragic, causing catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. If you or a family member has been a victim of an accident involving a semi-truck, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the damages done. These damages can be from medical expenses, mental anguish, lost wages, permanent injuries, funeral costs, property damage, pain and suffering, and future costs. Punitive damages are also available in some situations.
A semi-truck accident has different regulations than a typical passenger vehicle. For example:
Truck accidents often occur because the trucking company failed to properly inspect the truck, resulting in an explosion on the freeway.
Another cause of accidents is truck drivers failing to adhere to trucking laws. The Federal Highway Administration has made efforts to help prevent fatal truck accidents on freeways. There are laws in place that force drivers to meet specific standards to operate a commercial vehicle. Today, semi-truck drivers are required to keep records of their trips and are limited to driving for an approved amount of time each day. Unfortunately, some drivers don't take these laws as seriously as they should.
Some people do not have to obtain a Commercial Driver's License to drive a large truck. This lack of training and certification can often lead to truck accidents, particularly with inexperienced drivers.
Examples of large trucks that don't require a commercial license to drive include:
Even though the vehicle operator does not need a commercial driver's license in these cases, they may need to get special endorsements on their license to operate a large vehicle.
Although licensed commercial truck drivers are required to follow specific regulations, the trucking industry may not always adhere to federal regulations.
We can help you navigate the laws and regulations to ensure you get the settlement you deserve. We have represented numerous clients and helped them obtain the compensation they needed, including settling the largest semi-truck accident case in Utah's history. If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck accident, call us at (888) 201-6340 for a free consultation today.
