Commercial vehicles may weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, making them significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Unsurprisingly, this size difference often makes truck accidents catastrophic events. In fact, in 2017, trucks played a role in nearly 10% of all fatal motor vehicle accidents on U.S. roadways.
Even if you and your passengers manage to survive a collision with a truck, you may be vulnerable to significant and life-altering injuries. Recovering from these injuries, of course, is likely to be almost unbelievably expensive. Fortunately, you may be able to seek financial compensation from a few different parties.
The trucker
Commercial drivers have a duty to drive reasonably. If the truck driver who causes the accident and your injuries breaches this duty, you may have a valid legal claim against him or her. Exploring your options under the trucker’s insurance coverage may be your first step.
The trucking company
Rather than being in business by themselves, many commercial drivers work for trucking companies. As the employer of the driver who causes the collision that injures you, the trucking company may be responsible for your injuries and other damages. This is especially true if the accident occurs when the driver is performing his or her job duties.
Third parties
When their vehicles need service, trucking companies often work with third-party vendors. They also buy parts and accessories from suppliers or manufacturers. If negligent service or defective parts play a role in the crash, you may want to include responsible third parties in your personal injury lawsuit.
Your car or health insurer may pay your medical bills initially. Nevertheless, by exploring all your options for seeking financial compensation for your damages, you can ensure you have the means necessary either to recover from your injuries or to compensate for them.
