Truck Accidents
A subtype of Motor Vehicle Accidents
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About Truck Accidents
Truck accidents involve commercial vehicles subject to federal and state regulations. These cases are more complex because there may be multiple responsible parties — the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, and the vehicle manufacturer. Trucking companies typically carry large insurance policies, which means higher potential compensation but also a stronger legal team on the opposing side. Hiring an attorney with truck accident experience early is critical.
What insurance companies won't tell you
The first offer is usually low
Adjusters' first offers are often on the low side, and many people accept without knowing. Before you sign anything, it's worth hearing a lawyer out.
Your calls may be recorded
Anything you say to the insurance company can be recorded and affect your claim. Once you have a lawyer, the insurer generally has to communicate with your lawyer instead.
Delay is a common tactic
Medical bills keep growing while they wait for you to get anxious. A lawyer keeps following up and applying pressure so your claim doesn't stall.
What to do right now
Don't talk to the other driver's insurance alone
The other side's adjuster aims to pay as little as possible. Until you have a lawyer, you don't have to give a recorded statement or sign anything.
Photograph everything at the scene with your phone
Vehicles, road conditions, injuries, the other driver's plate and insurance — photos and video are the strongest evidence.
See a doctor soon, even if you feel fine
Injuries can show up days later, and timely medical records matter a great deal to your claim.
Keep every receipt and report
Medical bills, the police report, proof of missed work — every document can affect your compensation.
Talk to a lawyer as early as you can
The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the more completely the evidence is preserved. The consultation is free.
Your call is answered directly by the named member-attorney team — never sold to third parties.
Frequently asked questions
How is a truck-accident claim different from a car accident?
Two ways: commercial trucks carry much larger policies (federal minimums start at $750,000 for interstate carriers), and there are often multiple liable parties — the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, the maintenance contractor. More complex liability, but a larger pool of coverage.
Who can be held liable besides the truck driver?
Commonly: the employer trucking company (vicarious liability), the cargo/loading company (overloading or improper securing), and maintenance contractors (failed brakes or tires). Identifying every liable party is a key step — it determines the coverage available.
What evidence matters most in a truck case?
Electronic logging device (ELD) data, hours-of-service records (FMCSA limits driving hours), dashcam footage, and maintenance logs. The trucking company holds this evidence and may routinely overwrite it — an early preservation (spoliation) letter matters.
The trucking company's insurer contacted me fast — should I sign anything?
Not before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Commercial insurers move quickly and early lowball settlements are a common tactic. Signing a release or broad medical authorization early can forfeit most of what you're owed.
General information, not legal advice.
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