– Legal Basis: These cases are also based on negligence but often involve additional complexities due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, federal regulations, and multiple potentially liable parties.
Key Issues:
– Federal Regulations: Truck drivers and companies must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), including hours-of-service rules, maintenance requirements, and cargo securement.
– Liability: Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers (in cases of defective parts).
– Severity of Injuries: Due to the size of 18-wheelers, accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
– Damages: Similar to car accidents but often higher due to the severity of injuries. Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases of egregious negligence.