What to do in case of a Commercial Vehicle Accident

The world of transportation is an intricate web of diverse vehicles serving various purposes. From the behemoth semi-trucks hauling goods across the country to delivery vans crisscrossing urban streets, commercial vehicles form the backbone of our modern economy. These vehicles are essential, ensuring the movement of goods, passengers, and services.

What sets them apart is not just their size and purpose, but the intricate web of legal regulations that envelops them, especially when it comes to accidents. Accidents involving commercial vehicles, while sharing similarities with other traffic incidents, fall under a distinctly different set of rules and regulations. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone who has been involved in such an accident, or anyone seeking to represent the rights of those affected. It’s a journey into a complex legal landscape where commercial vehicle accidents are a breed apart.

How are Commercial Vehicles defined?

Commercial vehicles, broadly categorized, are motorized means of transportation primarily deployed for commercial or business purposes. These vehicles are pivotal in the movement of goods, passengers, or the provision of services and come in various shapes and sizes, each adapted to meet specific industry needs. What sets them apart from personal or non-commercial vehicles is their intended usage and the regulatory framework governing their operation.
Tractor-Trailers: These colossal vehicles, also known as semi-trucks or big rigs, are the backbone of the long-haul transportation industry. They consist of a tractor (the front part with the engine) and a trailer (the rear part for cargo), and they can carry a variety of goods over vast distances.

Delivery Vans

Smaller than tractor-trailers, delivery vans are commonly used by logistics and courier companies for transporting packages and goods within urban areas. They are a ubiquitous sight on city streets.

Buses

Commercial buses transport passengers in various settings, including city buses, intercity coaches, and school buses. Their size and capacity make them ideal for mass transit.

Construction Vehicles

Heavy machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and cranes are essential for construction and infrastructure development. These specialized commercial vehicles are designed to handle heavy-duty tasks.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Cars

Taxis and ride-sharing vehicles provide on-demand transportation services to passengers for a fee. These for-hire vehicles are integral to urban mobility.

Specialized Vehicles

Commercial vehicles can also include specialized equipment like ambulances, fire trucks, and refrigerated trucks for transporting perishable goods. These vehicles are tailored to specific roles and industries.

The Role of Commercial vehicles

Commercial vehicles are the backbone of our economy, ensuring the seamless movement of goods and people. They play a pivotal role in supply chain logistics, facilitating the transportation of raw materials to manufacturing facilities and the efficient distribution of finished products to retailers. This not only sustains the flow of commerce but also contributes significantly to job creation. The commercial vehicle industry offers a wide range of employment opportunities, from truck drivers to maintenance technicians and logistics professionals, directly and indirectly supporting millions of jobs.

Commercial vehicles enhance consumer convenience by making products and services more accessible through delivery vans, taxis, and ride-sharing services. These vehicles simplify daily life, providing individuals with the convenience of on-demand transportation. Moreover, commercial vehicles play a vital role in business expansion, enabling companies such as restaurants, retailers, and e-commerce businesses to reach a broader customer base. Delivery vehicles are indispensable for fulfilling customer orders, promoting business growth and success.

What if you have a collision with a Commercial Vehicle ?

Following an accident, establishing liability is often far from straightforward. Surprisingly, in a significant number of cases, the blame may fall on the car drivers themselves. They might have engaged in unsafe practices like tailgating or navigating within a commercial truck’s blind spot. In some instances, car drivers may have made abrupt maneuvers in front of the truck without allowing sufficient space for the truck to brake effectively.

Truck drivers also bear responsibility in certain cases. The demanding nature of their job, which requires covering long distances within strict delivery schedules, can lead to challenges. There are specific regulations governing the number of hours truck drivers are allowed to spend on the road before mandatory rest breaks. However, these regulations can’t guarantee quality rest and adequate sleep, leading to truck drivers operating while fatigued or, in more severe cases, falling asleep at the wheel. Distracted driving is another risk, where even a momentary lapse in attention can result in dire consequences.

Furthermore, truck drivers must be well-trained in various aspects, including vehicle operation, navigation, and thorough vehicle inspection and maintenance. Adequate training ensures that the trucks remain in optimal working condition, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failures and related accidents.

Determining fault in accidents involving commercial vehicles can be complex, and holding the responsible parties accountable is often a challenging process. Additionally, all these proceedings must fall within the two-year statute of limitations.

While trucking companies and manufacturers usually maintain high levels of insurance coverage, their insurance providers vigorously protect their financial interests, making it difficult for accident victims to secure compensation.

To stand a fighting chance in such cases, you need the expertise of an experienced Delaware truck accident attorney who is well-versed in the tactics employed by insurance companies and is willing to pursue your case in court. Given the significant financial implications, as these accidents frequently result in severe damage, adequate compensation covering medical expenses, lost income, potential future earning loss, and pain and suffering can reach substantial sums.

An experienced attorney possesses the knowledge and skills required to identify parties at fault and vigorously advocate for a fair and just settlement. At Phillips Law Office, we offer this essential expertise, providing you with the best possible chance of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

If you have suffered injuries in an accident involving a commercial truck, or if you have experienced the loss of a loved one in such an incident, we encourage you to reach out to us for a free case evaluation. Our team is here to support and guide you through this challenging process.

Our team will help you get Justice.

If you have experienced this unfortunate event, we are here for you.
the path to justice and fair compensation may seem challenging but at Phillips Law Office, we’re here to make this journey as smooth as possible.

Our team of experienced Commercial vehicle accident attorneys is dedicated to representing your interests, identifying liable parties, and fighting tirelessly for your rights.

Don’t let the complexity of these cases or the tactics of insurance companies deter you from seeking the compensation you deserve. Your recovery and well-being are our top priorities.

Contact Phillips Law Office today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you on the road to justice and compensation. Let us be your advocates during this challenging time, and together, we’ll work toward securing the best possible outcome for your case.