What Is a Commercial Vehicle?
January 16, 2024 | Sagi Shaked | Car Accidents
Accidents involving commercial vehicles are a complex field in personal injury law. These vehicles can range from small vans to large trucks.
Moreover, they operate under different regulations than personal vehicles. This article expands on the critical aspects of commercial vehicles and how to navigate the aftermath of an accident with one.
What Qualifies As a Commercial Vehicle?
Commercial vehicles aren’t just big trucks like FedEx or UPS vehicles. It can be any vehicle used for business, but it has to meet some special rules. These rules specify how heavy the vehicle is, how many people it can carry, or if it’s used to move dangerous things.
For example, if a vehicle weighs more than 26,000 pounds or if it’s used to take nine or more people around for money, it’s a commercial vehicle. Also, if it carries more than 15 people, has three or more axles, or moves hazardous materials, it counts as commercial. This would exclude recreational vehicles from being considered “commercial.”
Knowing if a vehicle is commercial helps us understand who is responsible for a crash and what laws they must adhere to following an accident.
Rights and Responsibilities After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
Commercial vehicle accidents have special legal and insurance issues to think about. Steps taken after the accident affect how things go with the law and insurance claims.
And since insurance for commercial vehicles can be pretty complicated, it’s a good idea to learn how it works. Doing all these things can help you protect yourself and ensure you get what you need, whether from insurance or in a court case.
Reporting the Accident
Legally, you are required to report any accident involving a commercial vehicle to the authorities. This is not just a legal formality; it’s a critical step in documenting the incident for future claims or legal action. Ensure you provide a clear and concise account of the accident, as this report will serve as a key piece of evidence.
Seeking Medical Attention
Your health and safety are paramount. Always seek prompt medical care following an accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, particularly internal ones, may not be immediately apparent. Documenting your injuries and their extent is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action.
Documenting Evidence
If you’re in an accident, gather as much information as possible. This means taking pictures of the vehicles, the area around the accident, and any injuries you see, and talking to people who saw what happened. This information is helpful for figuring out how the accident occurred and who might be at fault.
Understanding Insurance Claims
Insurance for commercial vehicles can be tricky. These insurance plans usually cover more and might involve different people, like the person who owns the vehicle, the driver, and the company they work for.
It’s important to understand these insurance plans, including your rights. This will help you when filing a claim for the vehicle or pain and suffering damages.
In short, after an accident with a commercial vehicle, you should report the accident, get medical help, collect information, and understand how insurance works. Doing these things right can help you later with legal issues or with your insurance claim.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
It’s good to know why collisions with commercial vehicles happen. This can help prevent accidents.
Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue
- Improper maintenance
- Overloading
- Distracted driving
Of course, a driver’s negligence can be due to other factors. It’s important to follow safety rules and ensure vehicles are looked after to keep everyone safe.
Steps to Take Following a Commercial Vehicle Collision
Regardless of who legally caused the accident, knowing the right steps to take following a collision with a commercial vehicle is important. It can be critical in ensuring safety and protecting your legal rights.
You should:
- Move to a safe location
- Call for help
- Document the scene
- Seek legal advice
These steps not only ensure your safety but also help in protecting your legal rights.
Impact on Accident Claims
Accidents with commercial vehicles involve more complex legal and insurance aspects. These require a thorough investigation process, accurate fault determination, and an understanding of the nuances of corporate insurance policies.
Our team is well-versed in the complexities of commercial vehicle accidents. We can provide legal advice, navigate through insurance issues, and work tirelessly to maximize your compensation.
Our Miami Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Crash
Understanding commercial vehicles and the unique challenges they present in accidents is crucial.
Contact our Miami personal injury lawyers for legal support after a commercial vehicle accident. We’re dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of your claim.
Contact a Miami Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Have you been seriously hurt in a semi-truck, trailer, or another commercial vehicle wreck? Don’t let an uncaring insurance provider get out of paying you the fair indemnification you deserve.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers is committed to fighting for you and pursuing indemnification for your financial security and quality of life. Contact our office for a no-cost appointment with a Miami truck accident lawyer ready to help you.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191