Even if an attorney has to be involved, car and other motor vehicle collisions have a more straightforward process than truck accidents. The factors making these cases more complicated are determining fault and getting information about the accident. Motorcycle Accident
For those unaware, truck and tractor trailer accidents have increased over the past two decades. Because of the truck's larger size and weight, these collisions, as well, result in greater damage than standard motor vehicle accidents. The trucking industry, in response, has federal laws and regulations drivers, the companies, and vehicle owners are required to follow; the standards, as well, assist with determining who is at fault for the accident. Truck Accident
A truck accident can occur from several factors. A driver could have made an error during the trip, and 90 percent of all accidents are attributed to this factor. Errors include speeding, inattention, and sleep deprivation; also laws now specify that a driver can only be on the road for some time before taking a rest. These requirements are not always followed. Other possible causes may include mechanical failures, such as poor road maintenance or traffic signal problems.
Because of the nature of the industry, more than one party could be responsible for the accident: the truck driver, the owner of the vehicle, the trucking company, the vehicle's manufacturer, and the shipping or loading company. In the past, the trucking company attempted to avoid liability for the incident by claiming it is simply a vendor that employs contractors and is not responsible for the vehicle, trailer, or all other equipment. Many laws now bar this practice and the trucking company is additionally responsible for vehicles displaying its name, along with all other parties associated. Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Although a police report is written up at the scene, the victim and truck accident attorney have further sources for obtaining information about the incident. Common options include contacting the government agency or obtaining the high-tech tracking device on the vehicle. A certified inspector, as well, must assess the truck or tractor-trailer at the scene before it is removed, including the condition of all parts. The inspector's observations are not included in the police report. Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
A "black box"-like device is onboard modern-day trucks. If an attorney can obtain this device, records of how fast the driver was traveling, the pattern of speed, brake usage, and how long the driver was on the road can be found and then used in the case. Motorcycle Accident Law Firm