Truck Accident Resources

Due to the large size and weight of most big rigs and other specialized work vehicles, commercial truck accidents can cause serious injuries and extensive damage. Accidents involving commercial trucks can be caused by truck drivers or passenger vehicle drivers, or both, and involve a number of potential defendants. Although the legal principle of negligence is at the heart of truck accident cases, they require special handling and differ substantially from typical car accident claims.

There are also different safety standards, licensing requirements, and maintenance/maintenance record requirements for commercial truck drivers. For example, commercial DUI regulations set the maximum legal blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) at 0.04 percent, which is half the legal limit for casual drivers.

If you are injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, make sure you do some research into the trucking company and driver before meeting with your attorney. Never admit guilt or liability for a truck accident. Don't sign any waivers or liability release forms until you have had a chance to speak with an attorney.

This article offers resources for those in a truck accident.

Truck Accident Resources

If you were involved in an accident with a commercial truck, such as a big rig or delivery truck, you'll need to work with your insurance provider as well as with a truck accident lawyer (if necessary). Below, you will find links to a number of federal and non-governmental resources to help you better prepare your claim.

Be sure to seek prompt medical attention first if you have been injured in an accident.

• American Trucking Associations - The ATA serves as an advocate for the trucking industry, providing information and research on the trucking industry (including highway and truck driver safety).
• Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance - Organization made up of industry representatives and safety officials from various governmental entities, offering research and suggestions to help standardize truck safety measures throughout North America.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration - Division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, offering safety programs, regulations, and facts related to the prevention of commercial motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities.
• Insurance Information Institute (III)- The highway safety section includes information on vehicle safety, insurance, and more.
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety / Highway Loss Data Institute - The "large trucks" section features fatality statistics, regulatory policies, safety ratings, and related safety information.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) - In-depth information about the enforcement of commercial vehicle safety laws and regulations, and their enforcement.
• National Safety Council: Safety for All Roadway Users - General information about defensive driving, focusing on the road, and other safety considerations for motorists.
• Truck Driving Safety Tips (American Family Insurance) - Practical safety tips for commercial truck drivers, covering topics such as distracted driving and the importance of checking and rechecking blind spots.
• Commercial Vehicles (AAA Exchange) - Truck safety education and advocacy organization created by AAA, with information about the causes of truck accidents and safety tips.

Make Sure Your Truck Accident Claim is Solid: Hire an Attorney

If you've been involved in a truck accident, you likely have a lot of questions including how to fill out a medical release form, whether you should speak with an attorney prior to speaking with the CMV's insurance company, and much more.

A legal professional experienced in commercial truck accident litigation will be able to lead you in the right direction. Find a local truck accident attorney today.