Semi-trucks move goods and materials across the United States. They help manufacturers distribute their products and acquire the materials needed to keep a factory running. They stock the shelves at retail establishments and even transport newly manufactured vehicles to dealerships.
Unfortunately, they are also relatively dangerous to smaller vehicles. Semi-trucks have large blind spots and are hard to maneuver in difficult traffic conditions. Crashes where semi-trucks collide with smaller vehicles often have catastrophic consequences. How do the people injured in commercial truck crashes cover their expenses?
Insurance is often available
Transportation companies and owner-operators driving their own trucks must conform to federal insurance regulations. They typically need to carry at least $750,000 worth of liability insurance. Those filing large commercial insurance claims often need guidance to understand the policy and negotiate for a reasonable amount of compensation.
Litigation could be an option.
In some cases, even a large commercial insurance policy falls short of total collision expenses. Catastrophic and fatal injuries can produce more than a million dollars in lifetime losses.
In such cases, it may be necessary to hold the driver, their employer or possibly even a third party accountable for causing the crash. Self-employed drivers may be liable for expenses that exceed the insurance they carry.
Trucking companies are liable for crashes caused by their employees’ negligence while on the clock. Clients, manufacturers and repair professionals could also be partially liable for semi-truck crashes in some cases.
Reviewing semi-truck collision circumstances with a legal professional can help people evaluate their options. That assistance can prove invaluable when negotiating a significant insurance settlement or preparing for injury litigation.
