Accident Involving a Commercial Vehicle: What You Should Know

When an accident occurs between a commercial vehicle and a personal vehicle, there are some specific considerations due to the differences in regulations, insurance, and potential liabilities. Furthermore, legal considerations can be more complex when commercial vehicles are involved. Commercial vehicles typically have commercial insurance policies that differ from personal policies. The extent of coverage and how it applies to different scenarios may need legal clarification.

In this article, we'll explore basic concepts regarding commercial vehicle accidents and how a truck accident law firm can help protect your rights if you've sustained injuries in such an accident.

Injured In a Trucking Accident?

If you've been injured in a trucking accident, always remember to seek medical attention if you’ve sustained injuries. If possible, document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road signs or conditions. Don't forget to exchange information with the other party, including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, and vehicle information. It's also essential to collect information from any witnesses present, as they may be valuable in understanding the sequence of events. Involving local law enforcement is also recommended to ensure a police report is filed. A police report is a critical tool that provides an official, detailed, and documented account of the accident. It can be used by various parties, including insurance companies, legal professionals, and law enforcement, to determine liability and process claims.

Now, usually, the next step would be to contact your insurance company and report the accident as soon as possible. However, there's a high chance that the responsible party's insurance will contact you first. But there's a reason why you should decline speaking to them before you speak with an attorney first. Why? Let's look at two possible scenarios:

1. The responsible party's insurance company doesn't believe their client was at fault and can use your own testimony against you. They know all the right questions to ask and how to word everything, so it works to their advantage. Remember, you are not their client—they have no legal obligation to help you.
2. They believe their client is at fault but will throw a lowball settlement offer and persuade you it's in your best interest to take it instead of filing a personal injury claim against them. You may be tempted to take it, especially if it's a substantial amount, but more likely than not, it might be a fraction of what you're actually entitled to receive.

Navigating the legal landscape after an accident involving a commercial vehicle requires a clear understanding of traffic laws and commercial regulations. Consulting with a personal injury law firm experienced in these matters can provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

Liability in Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Commercial vehicles are subject to various state and federal regulations. Violations of these regulations could contribute to liability. Investigations may be conducted to ensure the commercial vehicle operator and owner complied with safety standards. In cases of injuries, compensation may involve both the driver's personal insurance and the commercial vehicle company's liability coverage. In some cases, there may be third parties involved, such as maintenance companies or manufacturers responsible for vehicle defects. Legal action may extend beyond the immediate parties involved in the accident.

Due to the complexity of accidents involving commercial vehicles, individuals, especially those in personal vehicles, may benefit from legal representation.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help?

Attorneys specializing in traffic accidents or personal injury law can walk you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and potentially file lawsuits if necessary. If you were injured in a truck accident, you are entitled to receive compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, damages, and lost wages.

At Yepremyan Law Firm, our dedicated truck accident attorneys can help you protect your rights. Our firm will maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. We work on a contingency basis for all personal injury matters—no recovery, no fee!

As a trusted legal advisor, Yepremyan Law Firm has been serving clients all over Southern California since 1998, helping thousands of clients recover millions of dollars. If you need legal advice, schedule a free consultation with a North Hollywood truck accident attorney to discuss your case.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.