Not all vehicle accidents are the same. When a semi-truck is involved, everything from the damage to the legal process can look very different. If you’ve been in a crash with a large truck, you might wonder how it compares to a typical car accident.
Injuries tend to be more severe
Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries. Trucks weigh much more than passenger cars, so the force of impact is greater, which can result in head trauma, spinal damage, broken bones, and longer hospital stays. The people of Hawaiʻi should know that recovery after a truck crash may take more time and medical care than a car accident.
Liability can involve more parties
In car accidents, fault usually lies with one or both drivers. With trucks, it’s not so simple. The driver, the company they work for, the truck owner, or even a maintenance provider could share responsibility. Sorting out liability in these cases takes more investigation.
Trucking laws and rules apply
Truck drivers and companies must follow state and federal regulations. These include limits on driving hours, weight restrictions, and required inspections. If a driver breaks these rules and causes a crash, that violation can help show fault.
Insurance and claims are more complex
Commercial trucks carry larger insurance policies, but that doesn’t mean getting compensation is easy. Insurance companies often fight harder to protect their bottom line. You’ll face more paperwork, longer delays, and a more aggressive claims process compared to a car accident.
Big trucks bring big complications. From injuries to insurance, everything tends to be more intense. Understanding these differences helps you make smarter choices if a semi-truck accident affects your life.