Truck Accident Lawyers

Is an Accident with an 18-Wheeler Different than a Car?

Many people think that an accident with an 18-wheeler is the same as an accident with another car. In answer to the question “is a wreck with an 18 wheeler different than an accident with a regular car?,” yes.

Due to the difference in size, a wreck with an 18-wheeler can be much more serious. Beyond the obvious differences in weight and size, tractor trailer cases must be handled in a special manner.

Some of the special needs of a truck accident are due to the complex federal and state statutes that regulate the entire trucking industry. Eighteen wheelers are classified as either interstate carriers or intrastate carriers. Interstate carriers provide transportation for goods across state lines. Because of this, they are required to register with the Secretary of Transportation. Trucking companies that operate across state lines are required to register with the federal government and comply with the various federal laws.

Intrastate carriers, on the other hand, provide transportation within one state. They are not part of interstate commerce. These carriers only need to comply with the laws of the state in which they operate. Some states have adopted federal regulations as their own, rather than writing their own laws. While they originated with the federal government, they are still state statutes.

There are a number of differences between the regulations that apply to interstate carriers and those that apply to intrastate carriers. One of the big differences is the difference in the amount of liability insurance these trucks are required to carry. The rules of recovery can also be different.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, contact the 18-wheeler accident lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-800-220-9341 to discuss your legal options.