Why Truck Accident Cases Are Different From Other Vehicle Accidents

Not all vehicle accidents are the same. While car and motorcycle crashes can cause serious injuries, accidents involving large commercial trucks are often far more complex. In South Carolina, thousands of big rigs and tractor-trailers travel our highways every day. When one of these vehicles is involved in a collision, the consequences can be devastating — and the legal process to recover compensation is very different from a typical car accident claim.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking crash, it’s important to understand why these cases require the knowledge and skill of an experienced South Carolina truck accident lawyer.

1. The Size and Weight of Commercial Trucks

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. The sheer size and force of a truck collision often results in catastrophic injuries or fatalities that don’t typically occur in standard car accidents. This makes the damages — medical bills, lost income, and long-term care — much higher.

2. Multiple Parties May Be Liable

In a car accident, liability usually falls on one negligent driver. But in a truck accident, several parties may share responsibility, including:

• The truck driver

• The trucking company

• Cargo loaders

• Vehicle or parts manufacturers

• Maintenance providers

Determining liability requires an in-depth investigation that only an experienced truck accident attorney can handle.

3. Complex Federal and State Regulations

Truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with strict safety rules under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover hours of service, driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and more. A violation of these rules can play a major role in proving negligence after a crash.

4. Evidence Is More Complicated

Truck accident cases often involve unique evidence, such as:

• Electronic logging devices (ELDs) or “black box” data

• GPS and driver logbooks

• Truck maintenance records

• Dashcam or surveillance footage

• Company safety policies

Collecting and preserving this evidence quickly is critical, which is why having a truck crash attorney in Greenville on your side is so important.

5. Insurance Coverage Is Much Larger

Because of the potential for catastrophic damage, trucking companies carry much larger insurance policies than passenger vehicles. While this may sound like good news for injured victims, it also means insurers will fight harder to limit payouts and protect their bottom line.

6. Injuries Are Often Catastrophic

Truck collisions frequently lead to life-changing injuries, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries

• Spinal cord damage

• Amputations

• Severe burns

• Wrongful death

These cases often require long-term financial planning and expert testimony to calculate the true cost of future medical care and lost earning capacity.

Why You Need a Greenville Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are not like regular car accident claims. They involve more severe injuries, multiple defendants, federal regulations, and aggressive insurance defense teams. Without experienced legal help, victims risk settling for far less than they deserve.

At Davis & Snyder, our team of skilled Greenville personal injury attorneys has the experience and resources to take on trucking companies and their insurers. We fight to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the maximum compensation for our clients.

Call today for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Greenville, South Carolina

. Let us help you protect your rights and rebuild your future.