How are Ohio Commercial Vehicle Collisions Different from Car Accidents?

February 7, 2024 | Personal Injury

Our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Oliver Law Office represent injury victims and families who have lost their loved ones to negligence in commercial vehicle accidents and passenger vehicle collisions throughout Ohio.

 

While all personal injury cases are unique, there are stark differences between commercial vehicle and passenger vehicle collisions. Here, we delve into some differences and how we help Ohio residents pursue the best outcome for their own cases.

What is the Difference Between Ohio Car Crashes and Commercial Vehicle Collisions?

The first most significant difference between car and commercial vehicle crashes is the vehicle size.

Commercial vehicle collisions involve vehicles used for business purposes, like semi-trucks, delivery vans, and construction vehicles. These vehicles are typically larger and heavier than passenger cars, which can result in severe damage and catastrophic injuries in a collision.

When a passenger vehicle driver is in a collision, the negligent cause could be speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, or impaired driving. When they are liable for their crash, their personal insurance coverage may be pursued for your damages.

In Ohio, the minimum required for insurance coverage is $25,000 for injury/death of one person, $50,000 for injury/death of two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage in an accident, which can be pursued up to the driver’s policy limits when they are proven to be liable for the crash.

Commercial vehicle drivers must also obey local traffic laws like passenger vehicle drivers, which means maintaining the proper speed limit, avoiding distracted driving, and refraining from driving while impaired. The truck driver may be liable when they violate these laws and cause a crash.

One major difference is that commercial vehicles are subject to specific regulations imposed by state and federal authorities, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover areas like driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to legal liability in a collision.

Unlike passenger vehicles, they are often insured under commercial policies with higher coverage limits. Because commercial vehicles may cause more damage and injuries in a collision, higher insurance coverage is necessary to protect against potential liabilities.

However, liability may extend beyond the driver to include the employer or the company that owns the commercial vehicle. Factors like negligent hiring, training, supervision of drivers, and vehicle maintenance may come into play in determining liability.

These differences and the complexities of dealing with multiple insurance companies after a commercial vehicle crash with injuries are why we recommend speaking with a skilled personal injury attorney in Columbus before talking to the insurance companies.

How Can Oliver Law Office Help with My Ohio Crash Involving a Commercial Vehicle?

Commercial vehicle crashes can quickly become complicated and overwhelming for injury victims and their families. At Oliver Law Office, we have decades of experience handling these cases so our clients can focus on regaining control of their lives.

Our Columbus commercial vehicle accident attorneys will:

• Gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert testimony, to determine liability and establish the extent of your injuries.
• Identify and hold all potentially liable parties accountable for their negligence or wrongdoing.
• Negotiate with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
• Maximize the compensation you receive, considering your current and future medical needs and the long-term impact of the accident on your life.

Beyond legal representation, our Ohio personal injury attorneys provide encouragement and advocacy throughout the claim process – we understand your challenges and can offer guidance and reassurance every step of the way.

Contact Our Attorney at Oliver Law Office

Oliver Law Office is a client-focused law firm emphasizing each client’s individualized needs with personalized attention. We handle every case with confidence, courage, and determination. Please call us at (614)-220-9100 or fill out a Contact Us form so we can be in touch as soon as possible – let’s get started on your claim today.