4 most common semi truck crash myths debunked

It’s only natural to have preconceived ideas about semi-truck crashes when you’ve never been involved in one. Even when you are in a collision of some sort with a large truck, you may think it will play out in a specific way. This is often due to various myths that have been taken as truth over the years.

However, not all information about truck crashes floating around online are accurate. In fact, there are many mistruths that may impact how you navigate any related legal situation post collision. Being aware of the truck crash myths below, and recognizing why they have been debunked will make it easier for you to make the right decisions for your health, finances, and future. 

Myth: You don’t need a lawyer

It’s true that you’re not legally required to hire truck accident lawyers after being involved in an crash with a large truck. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hire one. If your collision with a semi-truck resulted in serious injuries, damages, or even death, hiring an experienced lawyer specializing in this field can often be worth your while.

A lawyer can help you determine the facts of your case, gather evidence, and work hard to hold the right people in account for the incident, and will ensure you’re adequately compensated for a situation that turned your life upside down. 

Myth: Truck drivers are mostly at fault

Even with all the safety equipment and gear that truck drivers have to keep them safe and comfortable on the road, many drivers still believe that truck drivers are mostly at fault for truck crashes.

While it’s true that some truck drivers are responsible, many factors can play a part in the average collision. A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration causation study highlighted associated factors like brake problems, roadway problems, tire issues, and vehicle cargo shifts, and not driver error as the cause of many truck crashes. 

Myth: Truck crashes are the same as car collisions

There can be many similarities between large truck and car crashes, like severe vehicle damage and life-threatening injuries, but these two types of incidents are not the same.

For instance, the driver is typically not the only person involved in the average truck crash legal case. Truck company owners, other employees responsible for loading, and even truck manufacturers may also be involved in the court proceedings. Therefore, settling a truck crash claim will often take longer than a car collision claim hearing.

Myth: Legal fees make truck crash cases not worth fighting

When you learn that lawyers in the United States have hourly rates in the hundreds of dollars, you might think that it’s not worth fighting for compensation after a truck crash that wasn’t your fault.

It’s true that legal fees can be expensive, but that may not be the case if your collision involving a truck was not your fault. Many of the best lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. As a result, you typically only need to pay for your lawyer’s time if they secure a win. When they do, you pay them a percentage of your settlement figure. In most situations, this fee is between 20% to 50% of the recovery amount. 

Eliminating truck crash myths

The average semi-truck crash is not always as it seems. If you’ve had any of these preconceived ideas about what semi-truck collisions can look like, now might be the right time to seek legal help. Your chosen lawyer can debunk myths and answer any questions you might have about how to navigate a truck crash claim.