The Difference Between a Truck Accident and a Car Accident
Many people assume that car and truck accidents are the same, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Truck accidents often lead to more severe injuries, higher fatality rates, and complex legal claims due to the involvement of trucking companies, commercial insurers, and federal regulations.
At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, our Akron truck accident attorneys help victims navigate these complexities and fight for the compensation they deserve. Below, we break down the key differences between car vs. truck accidents in Akron, Ohio.
Severe Injuries in Car vs. Truck Accidents
A passenger car typically weighs around 3,000 pounds, while a fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. This massive weight difference significantly impacts the severity of injuries in an accident.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Concussions
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries & paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Fatalities
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 72% of fatalities in truck accidents involve the occupants of smaller vehicles. If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries in a truck accident in Akron, it’s critical to work with a skilled attorney.
Fatalities in Car vs. Truck Accidents in Ohio
In Ohio, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reports that in a single year:
- 1,096 total motor vehicle fatalities
- 186 commercial truck-related fatalities
While car accidents result in more overall deaths, truck accidents tend to be more devastating due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, tow trucks, and commercial vehicles.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident in Akron, OH, our compassionate legal team can help you pursue wrongful death compensation.
Why Are Truck Accident Claims More Complex?
Unlike car accident cases, truck accident claims involve multiple liable parties, federal trucking regulations, and critical evidence that is often controlled by trucking companies.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Truck Accident:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
- The truck manufacturer
- Maintenance companies
Key Evidence Needed in a Truck Accident Case:
- Black box data – Records speed, braking, and driving hours before the crash.
- Driver logs – Confirms compliance with federal Hours of Service (HOS) laws.
- Truck maintenance records – Identifies mechanical failures.
- Cargo loading reports – Determines if improper loading contributed to the crash.
Trucking companies will not voluntarily hand over this evidence. A truck accident lawyer in Akron can issue legal demands to preserve and obtain these crucial records.
Get Legal Help for Your Car or Truck Accident in Akron, Ohio
If you’ve been injured in a car or truck accident in Akron, don’t handle the legal battle alone. The team at Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law has extensive experience fighting for accident victims.
Call us today for a FREE consultation! Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.
