Regarding accidents, truck and car collisions are two of the most common types of motor vehicle crashes. While there are many similarities between car and truck crashes, some significant differences can affect everything from the severity of damages to who is at fault.
Knowing what sets truck accidents apart from other kinds of motor vehicle crashes is essential to understand how truck accident claims differ from car accident claims.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between truck and car accidents so you can better understand if you ever find yourself in an unfortunate situation involving either type of collision.
Overview of Truck and Car Accidents
Truck and car accidents are both collisions that occur between motor vehicles. Despite the similarities, truck crashes tend to be more complex than other motor vehicle crashes due to the size and weight differences between the truck and other types of vehicles.
The most common type of truck accident is a rear-end accident, which occurs when a truck driver fails to leave enough room between their truck and the vehicle ahead of them. Other accidents include sideswipes, head-on collisions, jackknife crashes, and rollover wrecks.
Car accidents can involve any motor vehicle but most often involve passenger vehicles such as cars, SUVs, and vans. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident, but other car accidents include single-car crashes, head-on collisions, and sideswiped ones.
In Ontario, Ottawa, police say the number of truck accidents recorded in a year is greater than the number of car accidents reported. The City of Ottawa has recently seen an alarming number of accidents. According to a report by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), truck-related collisions have increased significantly, accounting for 20 percent of all collisions in the city in 2019. It is more than twice the rate seen in 2018 and shows no signs of slowing down. The 20% is still the same in 2022, where 423 people died; this means around 85 died due to truck accidents.
Common Causes
The most common cause of truck and car accidents is driver negligence. That could include distracted driving, driving under the influence, truck drivers driving tired, or speeding.
Another common factor in truck and car accidents is the weather. Inclement weather can reduce visibility on the road and lead to dangerous conditions that can cause a crash.
Differences Between Truck and Car Accident Victims
Regarding truck and car accident victims, there are some key differences. Generally speaking, a truck accident or collision tends to cause more severe damage and serious injuries. As a result, victims may also experience more severe injuries than those injured in car wrecks.
Additionally, it can involve more than two vehicles, making them more complex than car accidents. Victims can file multiple claims, leading to a longer and more complicated legal process.
When it comes to who is at fault in truck and car accidents, truck drivers are often held more accountable for the crash due to their responsibility to follow trucking laws. Truck drivers may be liable for the accident even if another driver is at fault.
Finally, truck drivers are often subject to more stringent insurance requirements than drivers of other types of vehicles. Victims may have better chances of receiving a full settlement from an insurance company or trucking company.
Laws Governing Vehicle Accidents in Ottawa
In Ottawa, the Highway Traffic Act governs truck and car accident laws. This law states that truck drivers must abide by specific trucking regulations to help keep roads safe for motorists. Truck drivers are also required to have commercial vehicle insurance that meets the minimum requirements of the law.
Truck drivers may be subject to trucking laws that differ from those for other vehicles. For example, truck drivers may be subject to truck speed and weight limits that don’t apply to passenger vehicles.
Types of Compensation Available for Truck and Car Accident Victims in Ottawa
In Ottawa, truck and car accident victims may be eligible for various types of compensation. That could include hospital bills, lost salaries, and property damage. Other damages, such as pain and mental suffering, may also be available.
No matter what type of vehicle is involved in an accident, truck and car accident victims may be able to pursue compensation for their losses with the help of a lawyer. An experienced lawyer or car accident lawyer can help truck and car accident victims understand their legal rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case for damages.
Tips on Avoiding Truck Accidents
To help truck drivers keep the roads safe and prevent future accidents, here are some tips to consider:
- Always follow trucking regulations when driving a commercial or transport truck.
- Make sure always to stay alert and avoid distractions while on the road.
- Drive defensively and be aware of other vehicles on the road.
- Avoid driving in dangerous weather conditions, such as snow or fog.
- Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Make sure to follow all traffic laws and speed limits.
- Always wear a seatbelt when driving any vehicle.
In addition, you must ensure that you have a video dashcam installed on your vehicle. It can help in an investigation if you are involved in an accident.
By following these tips, truck and car drivers can help ensure safer roads for everyone.
How to Choose The Right Personal Injury Lawyer for a Truck Accident Case
Choosing the right lawyer is an important decision. Victims should consider their experience and familiarity with local laws and regulations when selecting a personal injury lawyer.
Trucks and cars are subject to different rules and regulations in various jurisdictions, so it’s essential to find a lawyer with experience handling cases in the area.
Truck accident victims should choose a lawyer they feel comfortable with and can trust. It’s crucial to find a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer, but victims should also feel like they can trust their lawyer and openly communicate with them.
Final Thoughts
Truck and car accidents can have severe impacts on truck and car accident victims, as well as their families. It’s essential to understand the differences between truck and car accident laws, the types of compensation available, tips to prevent a truck or car accident in the future, and how to select an experienced truck or car accident lawyer. Following these tips, truck and car accident victims can better understand their rights and seek compensation.
