Commercial Vehicle Accidents: A commercial vehicle is any motor vehicle operated for profit, usually involving the transport of goods or passengers. In the United States, there are approximately 6.8 million commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These drivers operate across state lines and local routes, playing a vital role in the nation’s transportation and logistics infrastructure.
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Examples of commercial motor vehicles (CMV) include:
- Big rigs (also known as semis, tractor-trailers, or 18-wheelers)
- Box trucks (also known as single-unit or straight trucks)
- Cargo vans
- City, coach, or school buses
- Delivery vans
- Dump trucks
- Taxis or rideshare cars
When accidents happen involving commercial trucks, the passengers in a non-commercial vehicle are 6 to 10 times more likely to suffer injuries and fatalities than passengers of the truck. This stark disparity in risk is primarily due to the significant size and weight difference between commercial vehicles and passenger cars, with some fully loaded commercial trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds compared to the average passenger vehicle weight of 4,000 pounds.
Also known as tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, semi-trucks crash and injure, or kill someone, every 15 minutes in the U.S. Annually, this adds up to about 555,000 truck accidents and accounts for nearly 5,000 fatalities, according to the FMCSA. Collisions with trucks kill more people than accidents involving planes, trains, ships, and interstate buses combined. These sobering statistics highlight the serious nature of commercial vehicle accidents and their impact on public safety.
And that just accounts for accidents involving semi-trucks — many additional commercial truck accidents occur every day involving other types of commercial vehicles. The injuries they cause can be devastating to families, putting lives and livelihoods at risk. Victims often face extensive medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs, while dealing with physical and emotional trauma that can last a lifetime.
With experienced truck accident legal help, however, you can level the playing field and pursue compensation that can help lessen the financial toll for your family. Legal professionals specializing in commercial vehicle accidents understand the complex regulations governing the trucking industry and can help victims navigate the challenging process of seeking justice.
Involved in a Truck Accident?
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How Do Commercial Vehicle Accidents Happen?
Commercial truck accidents can happen for any number of reasons. However, they can often be the result of the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver neglecting to comply with federal safety standards. These standards are put in place specifically to prevent accidents and protect all road users.
Many trucking companies encourage truck drivers to cut corners as a way to maximize their profit, even though it can put those sharing the road in danger. This practice of prioritizing profits over safety can lead to rushed deliveries, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and driver fatigue.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Causes of commercial vehicle accidents include:
Distracted driving: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a staggering 71% of large-truck crashes occurred when the truck driver was engaged in activities other than focusing on the road. These distractions include eating meals while driving, using mobile phones for calls or texts, adjusting the radio or climate controls, or consulting navigation systems. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in a truck traveling hundreds of feet without the driver’s full attention, creating dangerous situations for everyone on the road.
Driver fatigue or drowsiness: Driver fatigue significantly impairs a truck operator’s ability to react quickly to sudden road hazards, substantially increasing the risk of severe accidents. The Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) revealed that 13% of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers were experiencing fatigue when crashes occurred. More alarmingly, a comprehensive study found that three out of four commercial vehicle drivers had committed at least one driving error due to drowsiness. These errors ranged from minor lane deviations to more serious mistakes that could have resulted in catastrophic accidents.
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol: The FMCSA reports that 17% of CMV drivers involved in crashes were found to have been using over-the-counter medications at the time of the incident. Many of these seemingly harmless medications, including common cold remedies, allergy medications, and sleep aids, can cause unexpected drowsiness or impair reaction times, making them particularly dangerous for professional drivers operating large commercial vehicles.
Failure to maintain tires, brakes, and other parts: Proper vehicle maintenance is crucial for safe operation of commercial trucks. When critical components like tires, brakes, steering systems, or other essential parts are not regularly inspected and maintained, the risk of mechanical failure increases significantly, potentially leading to devastating accidents.
Following too closely: According to the LTCCS, 5% of truck crashes were attributed to tailgating behavior, where drivers failed to maintain adequate following distance from vehicles ahead. Given the considerable stopping distance required for large trucks, this dangerous practice leaves insufficient time for drivers to react and brake safely in emergency situations.
Inadequate surveillance: The LTCCS found that 14% of large-truck crashes resulted from CMV drivers’ failure to properly monitor their surroundings or detect approaching traffic, particularly during lane changes. This highlights the critical importance of maintaining constant awareness of other vehicles and road conditions.
Overloading trucks: Exceeding a truck’s maximum weight capacity can severely compromise its handling, braking ability, and overall safety. Overloaded trucks require longer stopping distances and are more prone to tire blowouts and mechanical failures.
Pay structures that encourage dangerous driving: Some trucking companies implement compensation systems that inadvertently incentivize risky behaviors, such as speeding or exceeding maximum allowed driving hours. These practices prioritize quick deliveries over safety, putting both drivers and other road users at risk.
Speeding: The LTCSS reports that 23% of large-truck accidents involved trucks traveling at speeds inappropriate for current weather or road conditions. This includes driving too fast during adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice, as well as failing to adjust speed for sharp curves, construction zones, or heavy traffic.
Unfamiliar roadways: According to the data, 22% of large-truck crashes occur when drivers are navigating unfamiliar routes. This often leads to distracted driving as operators frequently consult maps or navigation systems while in motion, dividing their attention between route-finding and safe vehicle operation.
Unqualified or untrained drivers: Insufficient training or lack of proper qualifications can result in drivers being ill-prepared to handle the unique challenges of operating large commercial vehicles. This includes understanding proper braking techniques, managing blind spots, and safely navigating various weather conditions and road types.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Commercial truck accidents typically involve vehicles that vastly outweigh standard passenger cars, resulting in more severe injuries and a higher likelihood of fatalities. The disparity in vehicle size and weight often leads to catastrophic outcomes for occupants of smaller vehicles.
According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) data, large commercial truck and bus crashes resulting in injuries saw a dramatic 62% increase from 2009 to 2015, followed by an additional 13% rise between 2016 and 2019. These statistics underscore the growing concern about commercial vehicle safety on our roads.
Truck accidents can cause a range of serious injuries, including:
- Broken bones
- Disfigurement
- Hearing or vision loss
- Lacerations
- Loss of limb(s)
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a truck accident, you may be eligible to seek compensation through a commercial truck accident lawsuit. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses resulting from the negligent actions of the driver or trucking company.
Who Can File a Commercial Vehicle Accidents Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit if you or your loved one were:
- Involved in a commercial motor vehicle accident (including but not limited to trucks, buses, delivery vans, construction vehicles, or other business-operated vehicles)
- Suffered physical, emotional, or financial damages as a direct result of the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or disability
Our experienced personal injury lawyers specialize in commercial vehicle accident cases and can provide comprehensive legal assistance without any upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we secure compensation for your case.
Not Sure About Your Options?
We understand that the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming and confusing. During a free, confidential case review, our compassionate legal team will carefully evaluate your situation, answer all your questions, and outline potential paths forward. We’ll help you understand your rights and legal options while providing honest guidance about the strength of your case and potential compensation. There’s no obligation to move forward unless you’re completely comfortable doing so.
How to File a Commercial Vehicle Accidents Lawsuit
When you choose Sokolove Law as your legal representation, our dedicated commercial vehicle accident lawyers and support staff handle every aspect of your case from start to finish. This comprehensive approach allows you to concentrate on your recovery and family while we navigate the complex legal proceedings on your behalf.
Though every crash case is unique, our thorough legal process typically includes:
- Conducting an in-depth initial consultation at no cost to assess your eligibility for legal action
- Meticulously collecting and analyzing all relevant evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimonies
- Professionally preparing and filing a detailed commercial truck accident lawsuit against all responsible parties, which may include the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or other entities
- Aggressively pursuing maximum compensation through skilled negotiation of settlements or representation at trial if necessary
Truck Accident Settlements and Verdicts
After filing a lawsuit, compensation for truck accident victims can typically be secured through two primary channels:
Truck accident lawsuit settlements: Most commercial vehicle accident cases are resolved through settlements, where our experienced legal team negotiates with the defendant’s representatives to reach a fair compensation agreement. These settlements often provide faster resolution and avoid the uncertainty of a trial, while still securing substantial compensation for your injuries and losses.
Truck accident trial verdicts: In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our skilled trial attorneys will present your case before a judge and jury, utilizing compelling evidence and expert testimony to demonstrate the full extent of your damages and fight for the maximum possible compensation.
Choosing a Truck Accident Injury Lawyer
Navigating the legal complexities of a commercial vehicle accident case without professional representation can significantly reduce your chances of securing fair compensation. Insurance companies and corporate legal teams often work aggressively to minimize payouts, making experienced legal representation crucial for protecting your rights.
Selecting the right attorney requires careful consideration of their expertise, resources, and track record in handling similar cases. The right legal team can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
What to Look for in a Truck Wreck Lawyer
To ensure you choose the most qualified legal representation for your case, seek a law firm that can demonstrate:
Free Case Evaluations: Don’t spend another day wondering about your legal rights and options after a commercial vehicle accident. During our comprehensive, no-cost, and no-obligation case evaluation, a dedicated member of our experienced legal team will take the time to listen carefully to every detail of your story. We’ll thoroughly assess the circumstances of your accident, review any available documentation, and provide clear, honest guidance about your potential legal pathways. This initial consultation helps us understand the full scope of your situation while allowing you to make an informed decision about moving forward.
Decades of Experience: For more than 45 years, Sokolove Law has been at the forefront of personal injury litigation, specifically focusing on complex commercial vehicle accident cases. Our extensive experience handling these challenging cases has given us deep insights into the nuances of trucking regulations, insurance policies, and corporate liability. This wealth of knowledge and practical expertise allows us to effectively advocate for injured clients, ensuring they receive the justice and maximum compensation they rightfully deserve for their injuries and losses.
Nationwide Availability: When you need skilled legal representation in your area, Sokolove Law stands ready to assist. Since our establishment in Massachusetts over four and a half decades ago, we’ve strategically expanded our presence across the country. With offices and highly qualified attorneys practicing in nearly every state, we can provide local, personalized legal support while leveraging our national resources and reputation. This nationwide network allows us to effectively handle cases regardless of where the accident occurred or where you reside.
A History of Success: Our accomplished personal injury attorneys have built an impressive track record of success, securing over $9.8 Billion in compensation for thousands of injured clients throughout the country. This remarkable achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to our clients’ cases, our thorough understanding of personal injury law, and our ability to effectively negotiate settlements and litigate complex cases. Each victory represents a client whose life we’ve helped improve through dedicated legal advocacy.
Truck Accident Legal Help at No Upfront Cost: We firmly believe that quality legal representation should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why our truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are absolutely no out-of-pocket expenses or upfront costs to retain our services. We only receive payment if we successfully secure compensation on your behalf through a settlement or verdict. This arrangement allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
Matt’s story exemplifies our commitment to helping accident victims seek justice. As an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hunting, and exploring his local area, Matt’s life was suddenly disrupted by a careless driver. While making his routine drive to his favorite fishing spot – a journey he had made countless times before – another vehicle crashed into his car without warning, despite his careful adherence to traffic rules. The impact was severe enough to total his vehicle and leave him stranded on someone’s front lawn.
The aftermath of the accident revealed its true toll when Matt began experiencing debilitating back spasms – something he had never encountered before. The pain was so intense it would cause him to collapse, and he required extensive physical therapy lasting between eight and nine weeks. Facing mounting medical bills and ongoing treatment needs for injuries that weren’t his fault, Matt realized he needed legal support to ensure he wouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of someone else’s negligence. This realization led him to reach out to Sokolove Law, where he found the experienced representation needed to pursue justice for his injuries.
I reached out to the law firm one week after the accident, still reeling from the physical and emotional impact of the crash. My decision to contact them stemmed from a genuine curiosity about the potential compensation available for accidents of this nature, particularly given the severity of my injuries and property damage. Having never navigated the complex terrain of accident-related litigation before, I was admittedly apprehensive about the entire process. However, my experience proved to be remarkably straightforward and professionally handled from start to finish.
The level of professionalism demonstrated by the legal team at Sokolove Law exceeded all my expectations. Their approach was methodical yet compassionate, combining legal expertise with genuine concern for my wellbeing. The entire process was streamlined and efficient, with clear communication at every step. They took the time to explain complex legal terminology in simple terms, ensuring I fully understood my rights and options. Their dedication to my case was evident in the meticulous attention to detail they showed while gathering evidence, documenting my injuries, and negotiating with insurance companies. The amount of effort they invested in securing a fair settlement was truly remarkable, and I couldn’t be more grateful for having found such a competent and caring legal team.
When the case finally reached its conclusion, an overwhelming sense of relief washed over me. The successful settlement brought not just financial compensation but also emotional closure to a challenging chapter in my life. While the loss of my vehicle was unfortunate, the settlement enabled me to purchase a new car and move forward with my life. The resolution of the case allowed me to focus on my recovery without the added stress of legal proceedings or financial concerns.
Based on my positive experience, I strongly advocate for others to seek legal consultation with firms like Sokolove Law following a car accident. One crucial lesson I learned is that accident-related injuries aren’t always immediately apparent. Sometimes, symptoms develop gradually, as was the case with my back pain, which intensified considerably in the days following the accident. Many accident victims are unaware of their legal rights and options, often assuming that their only recourse is through insurance companies.
It’s crucial to understand that consulting with an attorney is a risk-free step that could significantly impact your recovery journey. The initial consultation is completely free, and there are no upfront costs or obligations. Given the potential benefits and zero financial risk, there’s absolutely no reason not to explore your legal options after sustaining injuries in a car accident. The process is remarkably straightforward, and the potential compensation can make a substantial difference in your recovery and financial stability.
Get Help from a National Truck Accident Law Firm
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a commercial truck accident, you may be entitled to pursue compensation through legal action — and our experienced team is ready to support you every step of the way.
As a well-established national truck accident law firm, Sokolove Law possesses the extensive resources, nationwide reach, and legal expertise necessary to hold negligent drivers accountable for the injuries and damages they’ve caused to you and your family members.
Throughout our distinguished 45+ year history, we’ve successfully secured over $9.8 billion in compensation for injured clients across the nation, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to justice and client advocacy.
Don’t hesitate to connect with our dedicated team today by calling (800) 995-1212 or completing our contact form. We offer free consultations with no obligation to proceed, ensuring you can explore your legal options without any financial pressure.
Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney FAQs
I was in a commercial truck accident — what do I do next?
If you were involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it’s absolutely crucial to seek immediate medical care for any injuries you may have sustained, no matter how minor they might seem. Even if you feel relatively unharmed or believe you’ve escaped the incident without significant trauma, it’s essential to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine the full extent of any potential injuries. Many accident victims experience delayed onset of symptoms, particularly due to the surge of adrenaline and shock that naturally occurs during and immediately after a traumatic event. Internal injuries, soft tissue damage, or neurological issues may not manifest obvious symptoms for hours or even days after the collision, making prompt medical attention vital for both your health and any future legal claims.
If you’re physically able and it’s safe to do so, it’s imperative to document as much evidence as possible while still present at the scene of the accident. Utilize your smartphone or camera to capture comprehensive photographic evidence of the accident scene from multiple angles. Be sure to photograph any relevant road signs, traffic signals, and lane markings in the vicinity. Document the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and any visible company markings or logos. Take detailed pictures of the road conditions, weather circumstances, surrounding traffic patterns, skid marks, debris patterns, and property damage. Pay particular attention to documenting the final resting positions of all vehicles involved. This type of immediate documentation can prove invaluable later, as physical evidence often disappears quickly and conditions can change significantly within hours of the incident.
After securing medical attention and documenting the scene, contact your insurance provider to report the accident — but exercise extreme caution and refrain from accepting any settlement offers before consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize their financial exposure by making quick, lowball settlement offers before victims fully understand the extent of their injuries or long-term medical needs. An experienced attorney can properly evaluate your case, assess all potential damages, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
If the accident resulted from someone else’s negligence, you have the legal right and opportunity to hold all responsible parties accountable for their actions, whether that includes the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, or other entities involved in the operation of the commercial vehicle. Contact Sokolove Law today for a comprehensive evaluation of your potential legal options and to understand the full scope of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Do I need a lawyer for a commercial truck accident lawsuit?
Attempting to navigate a truck accident case without strong legal representation can be extraordinarily challenging and potentially detrimental to your chances of recovery. Truck accident law encompasses multiple complex regulations, federal safety standards, and industry-specific requirements that require extensive legal knowledge to properly address. Furthermore, commercial vehicles are typically owned by large companies with substantial financial resources and experienced legal teams dedicated to defending against accident claims.
Without professional legal representation, you significantly diminish your chances of securing fair compensation and may inadvertently compromise your legal rights during the process.
By partnering with a qualified commercial truck wreck lawyer, you gain access to comprehensive legal assistance for every aspect of your case. This includes thorough evidence collection, expert witness consultation, accident reconstruction, medical documentation review, and proper claim filing procedures — all provided without any upfront costs to you or your family members.
How can I find a truck accident lawyer near me?
For those seeking experienced truck accident legal representation in their area, Sokolove Law offers an ideal solution. As a well-established national law firm, we maintain offices with licensed attorneys across nearly every state, enabling us to provide effective local representation throughout the country.
Regardless of your location within the United States, our skilled commercial truck accident lawyers stand ready to assist injured clients in pursuing the maximum compensation and justice they deserve. Take advantage of our free truck accident case review today to determine how our attorneys may be able to support your specific situation.
How much does a commercial vehicle accident attorney cost?
Our services require no upfront payment whatsoever. The truck accident lawyers at Sokolove Law operate strictly on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only receive payment if we successfully secure compensation for your case. Contact our office today to explore how we can assist with your specific situation.
Legal action in truck accident cases must be initiated within specific time frames due to laws known as statutes of limitations. These critical filing deadlines vary significantly by state and circumstance, making it challenging to determine the applicable timeframe without consultation from an experienced truck accident attorney.
Once this critical window of time closes, you permanently forfeit your legal right to pursue compensation for your injuries through the court system. These statutes of limitations serve as absolute deadlines, and courts rarely make exceptions once they’ve expired. Missing this deadline means permanently losing your opportunity to hold negligent parties accountable and recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related costs. Don’t risk losing your chance to seek the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve — reach out to Sokolove Law today for a free consultation about your case.
What are some different types of truck accidents?
Commercial truck accidents can occur in numerous ways, each presenting unique dangers and challenges. Common types include:
- Blind-spot accidents (when the truck driver loses sight of nearby vehicles in their considerable blind zones, also known as “no-man’s land”)
- Brake failures (often due to poor maintenance, overloaded cargo, or mechanical defects)
- Head-on and rear-end truck collisions (frequently catastrophic due to the tremendous force involved)
- Jackknife accidents (when a tractor-trailer brakes suddenly and the trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle, potentially leading to devastating rollovers and multi-vehicle crashes)
- Overturn or rollover accidents (when the massive tractor-trailer loses stability and rolls over, often due to sharp turns, high winds, or shifting cargo)
- Reversing or backing-up accidents (particularly dangerous in loading zones and parking areas)
- T-bone accidents (side-impact collisions often occurring at intersections)
- Tire blowouts (sudden tire failures that can cause the driver to lose control)
- Too-wide turns (when large trucks swing wide or cut corners too sharply)
- Underride accidents (particularly dangerous collisions where smaller vehicles become trapped beneath the trailer)
What trucks are considered commercial?
Commercial vehicles encompass a wide range of trucks used for business purposes and profit-generating activities. These include:
- Armored trucks (used for valuable cargo transport)
- Big rig trucks (18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, or semi-trucks)
- Chemical or biohazard trucks (transporting dangerous materials)
- Construction vehicles (including concrete mixers, cement trucks, and heavy equipment)
- Delivery trucks (operated by companies like Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
- Dump trucks (for construction and waste management)
- Forklift trucks (used in warehouses and construction sites)
- Livestock trucks (transporting various animals including bees, deer, pigs, cows)
- Log trucks (for timber transport)
- Moving trucks (both commercial and rental)
- Plow trucks (for road maintenance)
- Septic tank or sewage trucks (for waste management)
- Snow plow trucks (winter road maintenance vehicles)
- Tanker trucks (transporting gasoline, fuel, and other liquids)
- Train trucks (specialized heavy haulers)
- Tow trucks (for vehicle recovery and transport)
Additionally, our legal expertise extends to accidents involving other commercial vehicles such as:
- Buses (including city transit, school buses, and commercial carriers like Greyhound)
- Taxicabs or rideshare vehicles (such as Uber or Lyft)
- Vans (including moving vans and delivery vehicles like Amazon vans)