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Hiring The Right Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney

Hiring the right commercial vehicle accident attorney after an accident involving commercial vehicles is crucial to seek justice for any injuries sustained.

Commercial vehicle accident attorneys determine the outcome of a commercial vehicle accident case. They’re the difference between getting adequate compensation for all the losses accident victims experience and getting less or nothing.

Finding the perfect commercial auto accident attorneys can be daunting, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the jargon used in the legal field. We’ve prepared this guide to help you understand what you need to do to hire a commercial vehicle accident attorney who’ll fight for you to get the settlement you deserve.

Hiring The Right Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer: What To Do

There are three critical steps you can take to hire the best personal injury lawyers following commercial vehicle accidents:

Step 1: Consider Your Legal Needs

Evaluating your legal needs is the first step to hiring the perfect commercial vehicle accident lawyer. It will help you understand what type of personal injury attorney you should contact. For commercial auto accidents, there are two types of accident lawyers you can turn to for legal assistance:

Regular car accident lawyers. These lawyers work on cases involving all types of car accidents, including those involving commercial vehicles like buses and taxis.
Commercial truck accident lawyers. Commercial truck accident attorneys specialize in trucking accident cases.

To evaluate your legal needs after an auto accident, consider your situation and what you expect from filing a case against the at-fault party.

If you’re dealing with accidents involving commercial trucks, like semi-trucks, it’s best to hire commercial truck accident lawyers instead of regular car accident lawyers. Truck accident attorneys who exclusively work on truck accident settlement cases are better placed to help you get maximum compensation for all the pain and suffering trucking accidents cause.

Step 2: Research

Once you know the type of lawyer you need, start researching to find law firms whose services match your needs.

If you get injured in a semi-truck accident, for example, you can search online to find reputable law firms that focus on large commercial truck accidents.

You want to find truck accident law firms that have worked on truck accident claims for decades instead of newly established firms. A truck accident law firm with decades-long experience handling cases involving large truck accidents likely has more experienced truck accident lawyers than a law firm starting to handle truck accident cases.

Also, you can seek recommendations from your friends, family, and colleagues to ensure you identify a few law firms and increase your chances of hiring the best semi-truck accident attorney.

Step 3: Choose Your Truck Accident Lawyer

Comb through your list of potential law firms you can work with and narrow down your search to identify the most suitable lawyer for your specific case. This is easy to do if you consider the following factors when hiring a truck accident attorney.

Experience

Has the trucking accident lawyer handled personal injury cases similar to yours? If yes, how many? Generally, the more commercial truck accident claims a trucking accident lawyer has worked on, the more experienced they may be.

Be keen to identify an attorney with the right expertise because the experience of a commercial truck accident attorney is critical to the success of your truck accident case for two main reasons:

Commercial truck accidents are more complicated than regular car accidents. More than one party can be responsible for a semi-truck accident, including the truck driver, truck company, truck manufacturer, etc. An experienced truck accident attorney can identify all the liable parties in a truck collision and pursue compensation from each party.

Handling a truck accident claim requires specific knowledge of the federal and state trucking laws governing the industry. Experienced truck accident attorneys have mastered these regulations. They can accurately calculate all the damages you should collect, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain, and suffering.

Reading peer and customer reviews of the lawyers you’re considering hiring will be helpful here. You’ll get insight into their services and abilities from a legal and client standpoint.

Success Rate

If your potential lawyers have worked on several personal injury claims, how many have they won? And how much compensation have they recovered for various truck accident victims? Winning more cases and recovering high settlement amounts is proof of the lawyer’s expertise.

Also, check the lawyers’ success rate in handling truck accident lawsuits. Settling truck accident cases out of court and handling a truck accident lawsuit are two different things. It would help if you had a lawyer who can do both, so you’re sure they’ll fight for you to win.

Resources

Nearly all the defendants involved in a truck accident claim will try to jeopardize the case or shift blame to avoid paying the settlement amount requested. These include commercial truck drivers, the trucking companies they work for, and their insurers.

Hire a lawyer or law firm with enough resources to collect enough evidence and prove that all liable parties mentioned are responsible for all truck accident injuries incurred. The lawyer should have direct access to a team of trucking accident experts, including accident reconstructionists and medical experts.

Check out our in-depth guide on the factors to consider when looking for trucking accident attorneys to learn more about this.

Step 4: Negotiate Terms And Sign Contract

Most accident lawyers work on a contingency fee. They don’t take any payment upfront. Instead, they take a percentage of your settlement if you win the case. You should look out for and negotiate these terms when hiring a lawyer. Ideally, your attorney’s cut should be a third of your total reward or less.

Usually, this last step happens during your initial free consultation with your potential lawyer.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a good truck accident lawyer requires effort, but it’s worth it. The right accident lawyers help truck drivers and other accident victims get fair compensation so they don’t have to worry about medical bills or property damage repairs. Instead, truck drivers can focus on their recovery to get back on the road.

If you ever need help purchasing a new truck or financing truck repairs after a semi-truck accident, contact us. We offer various commercial vehicle loans and can tailor our services to your situation to get your business up and running sooner.

Understanding Semi Truck Accident Claims

Curious about semi-truck accident claims? You’ve come to the right place.

This guide covers everything you need to know about truck accident claims. You’ll understand the steps you need to take to get maximum compensation if you or your loved one gets involved in a semi-truck accident.

Seeking compensation after a semi-truck accident isn’t just a legal option – it’s your right. With the right guidance, you can navigate this process successfully.

What is a Semi-Truck Accident Claim?

Truck accident claims refer to any effort a truck accident victim makes to seek compensation for injuries and losses incurred after an accident. Usually, these claims are made against the party whose negligence led to the accident that injured the victim or damaged their property.

There are different types of truck accident claims, depending on the type of commercial truck involved in an accident and the specific details of the truck crash. A semi-truck accident claim, in particular, is the process followed to recover compensation after an accident involving a semi-truck.

It is critical to note that the underlying framework behind a truck accident claim process is the same even though commercial truck accidents differ.

How Truck Accident Claims Work

The truck accident claims process is a legal process provided for by both federal and state laws. It involves a series of negotiations and, sometimes, a lawsuit if the negotiations fail.

You’ll need an experienced truck accident lawyer to help you build a strong truck accident case and guide you throughout the claims process, which includes:

Gathering evidence to prove negligence by the at-fault party
Determining the extent of your truck accident injuries and property damage
Calculating the financial payment amount equivalent to the losses and injuries sustained
Presenting and arguing your personal injury case to all liable parties, thus ensuring fair compensation

You and your personal injury lawyer must take several steps to pursue your personal injury claim successfully after a commercial truck accident.

Filing Truck Accident Claims

One of the most crucial things to do when handling a semi-truck accident is to identify a reputable law firm and partner with an experienced attorney to start working on your personal injury case.

After getting a truck accident lawyer, expect the following legal steps to file and follow your semi-truck accident settlement claim.

1. Signing An Agreement Or Contract With Your Truck Accident Attorney

Signing a contract to establish a professional relationship with your truck accident attorney is the first step to filing a semi-truck accident claim.

Also known as a retainer agreement or a letter of engagement, the contract acknowledges that your truck accident claim process has begun and outlines how the attorney may handle the case.
Investigating Or Collecting Evidence

Once you’ve signed the contract, your legal team takes over. They investigate the truck accident to gather enough evidence to help your cause. Generally, this step includes:

2. Appointing qualified accident scene investigators to conduct a truck crash site review

Reviewing police reports and medical records to determine the extent of your injuries. Medical records also help truck accident lawyers calculate medical costs, which helps figure out the settlement offer.

Meeting with insurance adjusters
Carrying out accident reconstruction, where necessary
Locating and talking to eyewitnesses
Getting additional evidence from the trucking company involved
Talking to the trucking company’s legal team and their insurance company

Your truck accident lawyer will also coach you on how to describe the semi-truck accident accurately and consistently. To avoid jeopardizing the case, don’t give details of the accident to third parties, especially insurance company representatives and the legal reps of the truck driver and trucking company responsible for the accident.

3. Sending Personal Injury Demand Letter

Having gathered enough evidence, your truck accident lawyer will draft an injury demand letter and send it to the insurance company of the party responsible for the accident.

The letter outlines how the semi-truck accident affected you (the claimant) physically, emotionally, financially, and beyond. It also includes the demand or settlement offer you’ll accept as fair compensation for your troubles.

Since semi-truck accidents are handled differently than auto accidents involving passenger vehicles, multiple parties could be responsible for the accident. These include the truck driver, trucking company, commercial vehicle manufacturer, maintenance company, dispatcher, etc.

When multiple parties are liable, they receive a demand letter with the financial payment amount you seek as compensation and become the defendants in your truck accident claim.

4. Negotiating Settlement

In this step, the truck company or any other defendant in your truck accident claim reviews the evidence and demands presented by your truck accident lawyer.

Depending on the case’s details, they might accept your demands and settle the matter out of court. Or negotiate the terms of your offer and present a counteroffer. The negotiation process involves back-and-forth and can take a while.

5. Going To Trial

If the negotiating parties disagree, your attorney can file a lawsuit, taking the case to trial. A judge or jury hears both sides and determines the case in court. If you win, you’ll get fair compensation for various damages.

What Damages Can I Collect for a Truck Accident Injury?

An expert truck accident lawyer will help you get adequate compensation for the following types of damages:

Economic Damages

Economic damages are monetary. That is, they are easy to calculate and require proof to recover. Typical economic damages you can collect include:

Medical expenses, including medical bills for all medical procedures and care received because of the accident. Compensation for medical costs also covers medical bills for future medical care if nursing severe injuries that may take a while to heal.
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity if the severe injuries sustained prevent you from working
Property damage
Legal fees

Non-Economic Damages

On the other hand, non-economic damages are not straightforward and require expertise to determine their value. They include fear, anxiety, mental anguish, and other emotional pain and suffering as a result of the accident.

Wrongful Death Damages

For fatal crashes where lives are lost, families can collect wrongful death damages on behalf of their departed loved ones. These may include:

Medical bills for all medical care their loved one received
Pain and suffering their loved one endured
Loss of companionship
Funeral and burial costs

Punitive Damages

Although not common, punitive damages are available for some semi-truck accident cases if the wrongdoer’s actions indicate malice, fraud, or willful misconduct. They aim to punish the wrongdoer to discourage them from repeating their mistakes instead of compensating the victim.

Final Thoughts

Seeking compensation after semi-truck accidents is your legal right. However, you need the right truck accident attorney to help you successfully pursue your truck accident claim. Here’s a quick guide to finding the best semi-truck accident lawyer.

Call us if you ever need help financing your truck after an accident. We’re always ready to help you get up and running as soon as possible.

Semi-Truck Driver Accidents: What You Need To Know

Semi-truck driver accidents are a frequent occurrence in the U.S., with approximately 388,000 incidents annually. In certain years, like 2021, this number surpassed the half-a-million mark.

The prevalence of these accidents is due to various factors. As a truck driver, understanding these causes is crucial. It enables you to take necessary precautions, ultimately reducing the likelihood of trucking accidents.

This article looks at top causes of semi-truck accidents and how you can prevent them to make our roads safer for all road users.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Driver Accidents

According to a truck crash causation study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the common causes of semi-truck accidents fall under three main categories:

Driver error
Equipment failure or vehicle malfunction
Environmental conditions

Let’s take a look at each of these in turn.

Driver Error

Driver error is an umbrella term referring to any mistake a driver makes that leads to an accident. This is the number one cause of semi-truck driver accidents because almost all trucks are entirely human-driven.

Oversight by truckers includes non-performance errors, that is, mistakes unrelated to the driver’s driving skills, and performance errors, i.e., those related to their driving habits, and may include the following:

Distraction Behind the Wheel

A slight lapse in concentration when driving a semi-truck can lead to a fatal semi-truck driver accident, killing or injuring several people. This is because driving a semi-truck is different from driving regular cars. It requires more calculation, such as ensuring there is enough space (about 40% more) before stopping.

Distracted drivers can easily miscalculate their next move and cause a crash. Often, truck drivers get distracted trying to use their phones and other hand-held devices while driving.

Case in point: a trucker was recently charged with five counts of manslaughter. He hit another commercial vehicle, which crashed into two other cars, killing five people on the scene.

Driver Fatigue

Truckers are usually compensated based on the number of miles they drive, motivating many to extend their work hours for increased mileage. However, the FMCSA has established strict hours-of-service regulations that all truckers must follow.

Despite these guidelines, the pressure to cover more distance often leads to fatigue, and some truckers may find themselves dozing off behind the wheel, contributing to the occurrence of truck crashes.

Substance abuse

Alcohol or substance abuse impairs one’s judgment, and truck drivers are not immune to their effects. A truck driver can become drowsy and slow to respond to different situations or conditions on the road when under the influence. Fatal truck crashes are more likely to occur as a result.

Traffic Violations

Flaunting interstate traffic laws is a common practice among truckers. Most run stop lights, fail to obey road signs, or overspeed, increasing their risk of getting involved in semi-truck accidents.

Failure to Check Blind Spots

Because of their large size and weight, there are several blind spots a trucker must check before switching lanes or turning. Some drivers fail to check their mirrors as needed and hit other vehicles or pedestrians.

Aggressive driving

Road rage affects nearly all drivers, truckers included. More often than not, it leads to reckless or aggressive driving, where one driver might try to crash into another who made them angry deliberately.

Inexperienced Drivers

Inexperienced drivers are more likely to cause a crash, especially on interstate roads, compared to their experienced counterparts.

Equipment Failure Or Vehicle Malfunctions

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted another large truck crash causation study and realized that equipment failure or vehicle malfunctions are among the top causes of semi-truck accidents. Nearly 55% of the trucks involved in the crashes studied had one mechanical failure at the very least.

If your vehicle or any of its parts fail when you are on the road, a truck crash becomes unavoidable because the situation is almost always out of your control. There are several types of equipment failures or vehicle malfunctions to note, including:

Part manufacturing defects
Wrongly Loaded Cargo
Transmission failure
Improperly inflated or worn-out tires
Missing safety equipment, like underride rails
Overall poor vehicle maintenance, including poorly maintained brakes

Environmental Conditions

Unpredictable weather and changing road conditions can also cause semi-truck accidents. Heavy rains or storms, for instance, make roads wet and slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Some roads are also poorly maintained and demand more cautious driving.

If a truck driver fails to drive keenly on uneven roads or those with large potholes, fading road markings, and missing signage, they will likely cause a crash.

Steps You Can Take to Prevent the Causes of Most Truck Accidents

As you can tell, most causes of semi-truck driver accidents are things or situations within your control. Here are a few steps you can take to drive safely and prevent truck accidents:

Focus – be keen while driving to stay alert and respond to changing road conditions accordingly. Avoid taking your eyes off the road to use your phone or any other gadget when behind the wheel.
Maintain your semi-truck properly regularly – this helps identify and handle mechanical issues quickly, minimizing the risk of accidents. Also, follow the required pre-trip vehicle inspection process to ensure your truck is always in good shape before getting on the road.
Obey traffic rules and regulations – these rules are there to protect you and other road users.
Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to give yourself enough room to maneuver.
Avoid overloading and ensure all cargo is secured perfectly before making a trip.
Don’t drink or use any street drugs and drive.
Get enough rest, especially if you’re a long-distance truck driver. It prevents fatigue and helps you stay alert while driving.

Final Thoughts

It is essential to note that most truck accidents happen due to a combination of factors. For example, a semi-truck driver might run stop lights due to brake failure or make sudden, unpredictable turns due to poor road conditions.

Because of this, it’s advisable always to drive defensively and follow all the tips for preventing trucking accidents discussed above.

That said, there are a few things you ought to do if you ever find yourself in a truck crash. Follow our safety guide to learn how to handle a semi-truck accident.

Also, contact us if you need financial help to replace your truck after an accident. We’re always ready to help.

Insuring Your Commercial Vehicle for Personal Use

Using a commercial vehicle for personal reasons is quite common among business owners. However, it’s essential to realize that your insurance may not cover such usage.

If you’re driving your commercial vehicle for personal errands or even heading home after work, you might not have the right insurance coverage.

To ensure you’re adequately protected in these situations, follow these steps when using your commercial vehicle for personal purposes.

Understand Your Insurance Policy

Start by reviewing your current commercial vehicle insurance policy.

It’s vital to know what is covered and any limitations on personal use. Some commercial policies may have restrictions or exclusions for personal use.

If you need help understanding each point in your commercial auto insurance policy, then reach out to your insurance provider to explain it to you. You must take time to understand all the technicalities of your policy, as this will allow you to make a more informed decision.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Once you know exactly what your commercial vehicle insurance covers, it’s time to discuss your policy with your broker.

Contact your insurance company or agent to discuss your intentions to use the commercial vehicle for personal use. They can advise you on how to proceed and what changes may be necessary.

After checking your policy, your insurance company or agent will offer valuable insights on the best way to switch to personal auto insurance coverage. Make sure you hear them out before making any moves.

Add Endorsements or Coverage

Transitioning from commercial vehicle insurance to personal use insurance can often be a relatively simple process. Nevertheless, it’s essential to ensure that your policy adequately covers your needs.

Depending on your insurance provider and the nature of your commercial vehicle, you might be required to incorporate particular endorsements or coverage options into your policy to guarantee comprehensive coverage for personal use. This could include:

Non-Owned Vehicle Coverage: This extends your policy to cover non-owned vehicles, like your personal car, when you use them for business purposes. It can also be useful for personal use of commercial vehicles.
Personal Use Endorsement: Some insurance companies offer this endorsement, which explicitly allows for personal use of a commercial vehicle. It can help bridge the gap between private and commercial insurance.

Of course, different commercial auto insurance providers have different rules and coverage limits when you insure your commercial vehicle for personal use. Added endorsement or coverage depends on the provider you’re using and what your specific policy covers.

Discuss Usage Patterns

When taking out a commercial auto insurance policy covering personal use, you must establish exactly what kind of personal use you’ll get out of the vehicle.

Be honest with your insurance provider about how often and for what purposes you’ll use the commercial vehicle for personal use. This will help them determine the appropriate coverage and premiums.

It’s important not to lie here in an attempt to save on costs. By being honest, you’ll ensure your vehicle is adequately covered for all scenarios.

Consider Liability Limits

When taking out auto insurance coverage, one of the most important considerations is your liability limit.

Ensure that the liability limits on your policy are sufficient for both personal and business use. If you’re using the vehicle for personal use, it’s essential to have adequate coverage in case of an accident.

Chances are, business vehicles require greater coverage compared to a personal car insurance policy. So, make sure that your coverage is sufficient for the driving you plan to do.

Pay Attention to Premiums

Of course, one of the most important considerations for any commercial or personal auto insurance policy is the premiums.

Adding personal use coverage to your commercial policy may affect your premiums. Discuss any potential cost increases with your insurance provider.

While affordable insurance is always attractive, it’s also important to note that cheap insurance policies aren’t always worth it. It’s a good idea to compare different commercial insurance options and see how high the premiums are for various insurance coverage solutions. This will help you choose the best value policy that provides enough coverage.

Maintain Accurate Records

Insuring a commercial vehicle for personal use can get confusing – especially if different rules apply to your commercial auto policy and personal auto coverage. This is why it’s so essential to document all of your driving carefully.

Keep detailed records of how you use the vehicle, including dates, times, and purposes. This documentation can be helpful if you need to file a claim or prove that you were using the vehicle for personal use.

This information is also helpful if you want to renew your insurance policy, as you’ll have a more detailed and realistic overview of how you use the vehicle for business and personal use.

Drive Safely

Regardless of the use of your vehicle, it’s essential to drive safely and follow traffic laws to avoid accidents and insurance issues.

Make sure you understand the leading causes of commercial truck accidents and pay attention to any of these potential issues arising. By being alert, you’ll be able to drive safer – which is vital for your commercial and personal insurance.

Many insurance providers offer incentives for safer drivers – something that can help you secure lower insurance premiums. So, whether you’re using your vehicle for personal or commercial use, driving safely is essential.

Conclusion

Remember that the process of insuring a commercial vehicle for personal use may vary depending on your location, the insurance company, and the specific vehicle. To ensure you have the right coverage, always consult with your insurance provider and ask them to clarify any questions or concerns you may have.

Looking to purchase a new commercial vehicle? Then speak to us at Mission Financial Services, where we can help you secure easy vehicle financing.

Choosing Commercial Truck Driver GPS Systems

Choosing the right commercial truck driver GPS is an essential decision for anyone in the transportation business.

Unlike regular car GPS systems, a truck GPS should include extra features and abilities. As truck drivers rely so heavily on their GPS, having a high-quality GPS is essential.

In this guide, we’ll explore what you need to know about a commercial truck driver GPS and how to choose the right one.

What is a GPS Tracker?

A GPS tracker, or Global Positioning System tracker, is a device that determines and records the precise location of an object or person in real time. The GPS relies on satellites orbiting the Earth to provide accurate location data.

GPS trackers can be installed in cars, trucks, and other vehicles to monitor their location, speed, and route. This is often used for fleet management, ensuring driver safety, and preventing theft.

What Types of Commercial Vehicles Should Use Truck GPS Apps?

Truck GPS apps are designed to cater to the specific needs of commercial vehicles, huge trucks, and freight carriers.

These apps offer features and navigation tools tailored to the challenges faced by truck drivers. Here are some commercial vehicles that can benefit from using truck GPS apps.

Semi-Trucks and Tractor-Trailers

Long-haul and freight-carrying trucks that transport goods over long distances can benefit from truck GPS apps. These apps consider factors like truck weight, height, and length to provide routes suitable for large vehicles. This can be a major help for commercial truck drivers.

Delivery Trucks

Vehicles used for local and regional deliveries, such as box trucks and delivery vans, often require precise navigation to reach various stops efficiently. This can help with custom truck routing for smoother deliveries.

Construction and Utility Vehicles

Vehicles used in construction, utility maintenance, and similar industries may need to navigate to remote job sites. Truck GPS apps can help in finding these locations.

Oversized and Specialty Vehicles

Vehicles with non-standard dimensions, such as oversized loads or those carrying hazardous materials, require GPS apps that consider these unique requirements when planning routes.

Again, customized truck routing for these vehicles can be extremely helpful.

Fleet Vehicles

Businesses with a fleet of commercial vehicles can use GPS units to manage and track their vehicles, optimize routes, and monitor driver behavior for efficiency and safety.

How to Choose the Best GPS for Truck Drivers

Choosing the best truck GPS can be tricky, as there are many different factors that can go into these systems. Here are a few crucial considerations that truck drivers should make when choosing truck GPS units.

Screen Size

Opt for a GPS device with a large and clear screen that’s easy to read, especially while driving. A bigger screen makes it easier to view maps and instructions without distraction. This can help truck drivers avoid accidents on their truck routes.

Ease of Use

The GPS should have an intuitive and user-friendly interface, ensuring drivers can easily navigate menus, input destinations, and access essential functions.

Durability

The right truck GPS devices should be built to withstand the rigors of the road. Look for models that are robust and built to handle the vibrations and temperature variations commonly encountered in trucks.

Installation

Consider how the GPS is installed in the truck. Some may require professional installation, while others can be mounted easily on the dashboard or windshield.

Long-Term Support

Choose a GPS brand that offers ongoing software updates, ensuring that you have access to the latest features and map data.

Storage Space

Adequate internal storage or support for external memory cards is essential to accommodate large map files and other data.

Special Features for Trucking GPS

Regular GPS devices aren’t always suitable for commercial truck drivers. Here are a few specific features to look out for when choosing a truck GPS.

Up to Date Maps

Ensure the GPS device provides access to the latest map updates and can alert you when new maps are available for download. Maps should also show features like gas stations, truck-friendly parking, and rest stops.

Driver Safety

Look for features like driver fatigue warnings, alerts for speed limits, cautions for narrow roads, and lane departure warnings to enhance safety during long drives.

Drive Assist Features

Features like lane guidance, intersection view, and reality view can help truck drivers navigate complex roadways more easily.

Precision of Navigation Directions

The GPS should provide accurate and detailed turn-by-turn directions, including voice prompts and visual cues.

Voice Navigation

Voice-guided directions can be invaluable, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road while receiving instructions.

Truck-Specific GPS Routing

Opt for a GPS that considers truck-specific parameters like weight, height, length, and hazardous materials restrictions when planning routes.

Real-Time Traffic Consideration

GPS devices that provide real-time traffic updates can help drivers avoid congestion and delays, saving time and fuel.

Road Restriction Monitoring

Ensure the GPS alerts you to road restrictions, such as low bridges or weight limits, and offers alternative routes.

Toll Road and Highway Bypass Options

Look for a GPS that allows you to choose whether to take toll roads and highways or opt for more cost-effective routes.

Fuel Consumption Management Features

Some GPS devices provide information on fuel-efficient routes and offer tools for monitoring and managing fuel consumption.

Data Handling – Trip Logging, Fleet Management

If you’re managing a fleet of trucks, consider GPS devices that offer data-handling features for trip logging, tracking, and fleet management.

Final Thoughts

By considering these factors and features, truck drivers can choose a GPS device that best suits their needs, enhances safety, and improves efficiency while on the road. It’s vital to assess the specific requirements of your trucking operation to find the ideal GPS solution.

A GPS is an essential piece of equipment for any commercial truck. While you could always get a free truck GPS app, investing in the right commercial GPS adds value to any truck driver.

Are you looking to purchase a semi-truck? Then get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we can help you secure financing for your dream vehicle.

Commercial Vehicle Accident Explained

As a truck driver, commercial vehicle accidents are only too familiar. Nearly 388,000 truck accidents happen annually across the U.S.

While you can’t always avoid accidents, you should be well informed on how to deal with them in case they do happen. Knowing what to do will help you deal with commercial truck accidents swiftly while minimizing the impact of these accidents.

Our guide covers the essential information related to these accidents and how to deal with them to help you be better prepared for potential truck accidents.

What Qualifies as a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

A commercial vehicle accident refers to any collision or accident involving a vehicle that is used for business or commercial purposes.

These accidents can vary in severity, from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions. They Can involve various types of commercial vehicles.

Why are Commercial Vehicles at Risk for Accidents?

Commercial vehicles are at a higher risk for accidents due to their size, weight, limited visibility, and long hours on the road.

Many factors can cause commercial vehicle accidents, and even the most experienced truck drivers end up in accidents due to their high mileage and the inherent risk of operating a commercial vehicle.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents can result from many different factors. Here are some of the most common causes:

Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road and tight schedules can lead to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a truck driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of accidents.
Distracted Driving: Distractions like texting, phone calls, eating, or adjusting GPS devices can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, leading to accidents.
Inadequate Training: Insufficient training in handling large commercial vehicles can result in errors and poor decision-making on the road.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Improperly loaded or overweight cargo can affect the stability and handling of a truck, increasing the risk of rollovers and accidents.
Equipment Failure: Mechanical failures in the truck’s components, such as brakes, tires, or steering, can lead to accidents. Poor maintenance practices contribute to equipment failure.
Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, ice, or fog, can reduce visibility and traction, making accidents more likely.
Blind Spots: Large trucks have significant blind spots, making it challenging to see smaller vehicles. This can result in accidents, especially during lane changes or turns.
Hazardous Materials Incidents: Trucks carrying hazardous materials can pose additional risks, as spills, leaks, or explosions can result in severe accidents and environmental damage.

Common Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can cause a range of injuries, often more severe than car accidents due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles.

Severe injuries could include whiplash, fractures, head and brain injuries, traumatic brain injuries, burns, and psychological trauma. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial, as the injuries can vary from minor to life-altering, and early intervention is essential for recovery.

Steps to Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

Responding swiftly to commercial vehicle accidents is essential. Here are some of the most critical steps commercial drivers should take after an accident with a semi-truck.

Ensure Safety

First, check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Turn on hazard lights, set up warning devices, and secure the accident scene to prevent further collisions.

Call for Help

Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance and law enforcement to the scene. Commercial accidents often involve severe injuries and may require specialized attention.

Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved, including witnesses. Note the other driver’s license plate number and insurance details.

Document the Scene

Take photos and notes of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signs. This documentation can be vital for insurance claims and legal purposes.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel injured directly after the accident, it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately, and a medical record is essential for potential claims.

Cooperate With Law Enforcement

Provide a statement to the police and answer their questions honestly. Request a copy of the police report for your records.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Follow their guidance on filing a claim and provide all necessary information.

Consult An Attorney

Consider seeking legal counsel, especially if there are injuries or disputes regarding liability. An experienced truck accident attorney can help protect your rights and navigate complex commercial accident cases.

This is especially important if you’re involved in a personal injury lawsuit with accident victims claiming medical expenses. An experienced personal injury attorney will make this process a lot easier.

Preserve Evidence

Keep any evidence related to the accident, such as medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies or legal professionals. The more evidence you have, the stronger and easier your claims process will be.

Avoid Discussing the Accident

Refrain from discussing the accident on social media or with anyone other than your legal representation and insurance company. Statements made publicly can be used against you.

Final Thoughts

Remember that commercial vehicle accidents can be complex, and it’s essential to protect your rights and interests throughout the process. Seeking professional guidance from legal and medical experts is advisable to navigate potential legal and insurance challenges effectively.

It’s also vital that you understand the risks involved in commercial accidents and that you take all necessary precautions to avoid the accidents from happening in the first place. Ultimately, this comes down to responsible driving practices and taking good care of your vehicle.

If you’re looking to purchase a new semi-truck after a commercial vehicle accident, then you’ll probably need to find the right financing solution. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we can help you secure financing for your commercial vehicle with ease.