Truck Accidents vs. Car Accidents

When you’re navigating the busy streets and highways of New York, it’s important to remember that not all vehicular accidents are created equal. While truck versus car accidents may be less common than car versus car collisions, crashes involving semi-trucks are typically much more severe in the injuries and damage they inflict on accident victims. The way these crashes happen and the liable parties can be different as well. Read on to learn some of the major distinctions between these types of crashes and why it matters. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car or truck accident in New York City, reach out to Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., for a free consultation with an experienced and dedicated New York personal injury lawyer.

Differences in Size and Weight

One of the most obvious differences between trucks and cars is the sheer size and weight differential between the two kinds of vehicles. A typical passenger car weighs around 3,000 to 4,000 pounds, whereas a fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. This significant weight disparity often results in more severe damage and injuries to the occupants of a passenger car involved in a truck collision.

Maneuverability and Stopping Distance

The ability of a motor vehicle to maneuver nimbly and stop quickly can make all the difference between the severity of a crash and avoiding any impact at all. Trucks have a larger turning radius and require more distance to come to a complete stop. This is crucial to understand if you find yourself driving close to a truck on the highway or New York city streets. Drivers run the risk of being rear-ended in a sudden traffic slowdown on the highway or getting squeezed and crushed when caught in the path of an 18-wheeler executing a turn at an intersection.

Regulatory Differences

Commercial trucks are governed by a different set of laws and regulations compared to passenger vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules that apply to the trucking industry, including driving time limitations and mandatory rest periods for truck drivers. Drowsy and fatigued driving is a major contributor to truck accidents, and failure to adhere to the applicable hours of service rules can be evidence of a trucker’s negligence. Other regulations can implicate the trucking company or third parties regarding liability crashes caused by a lack of truck maintenance or negligent cargo loading.

Liability and Insurance Complexities

In a car accident, determining liability is typically straightforward: it’s usually one driver against another. In contrast, truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the freight shipper, the company that loaded the truck or performed maintenance and repairs, and sometimes even the manufacturer of the truck or its parts. This complicates the process of establishing liability and filing insurance claims against the proper party or parties.

Types of Injuries Sustained

Due to the massive size and weight of commercial big rigs, injuries sustained in these truck accidents are often more severe. Victims might suffer from traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other life-altering conditions. The immediate and long-term medical costs can be substantially higher than those associated with car accidents. Claims for compensation are more difficult to put together and can be fought harder by insurance companies with large policies and liability exposure.

Help With Compensation and Legal Actions in New York Car and Truck Accidents

Victims of truck accidents in New York may be entitled to different forms of compensation compared to car accidents. Because multiple parties may be involved, the potential for higher compensation exists, but it also makes the legal process more intricate. A qualified personal injury attorney can navigate these complexities to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car or truck accident in New York, seek legal counsel immediately to explore your options. At Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., we have the expertise to guide you through these challenging situations and help you make informed decisions. Call 212-889-9362 for a free consultation and immediate assistance getting the support you need.