Not all vehicle accidents are created equal. When a commercial truck collides with a passenger car, the impact is often devastating—and so are the financial consequences. Victims frequently ask: “Why are truck accident settlements higher than regular car accident settlements?”
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand how truck accidents change lives. Here’s what you need to know about the key differences in settlement values between truck and car accidents in California.
Why Truck Accidents Are Different
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—compared to an average car’s 3,000–4,000 pounds. This enormous size and weight difference means:
- More severe injuries: Catastrophic harm like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and fatalities are far more common.
- Greater property damage: Cars are often totaled, and roadway damage can be extensive.
- Complex liability: Multiple parties may share responsibility, from the truck driver to the trucking company, maintenance providers, and even manufacturers.
Key Factors That Increase Truck Settlement Values
1. Severity of Injuries
Truck crashes often result in life-altering injuries requiring surgery, rehabilitation, long-term care, and permanent disability compensation. These higher medical costs drive up settlement values compared to typical car accidents.
2. Higher Insurance Policy Limits
Commercial trucking companies are required to carry much larger insurance policies than everyday drivers. Federal regulations mandate coverage of $750,000 to $5 million, depending on the cargo. That means more money is available to pay victims fairly.
3. Multiple Defendants
In car accidents, claims usually target one at-fault driver’s policy. In truck accidents, liability may extend to:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
- Cargo loaders (if unsecured loads caused the crash)
- Manufacturers (if defective brakes, tires, or other parts contributed)
With more potential defendants, there are more sources of recovery.
4. Federal and State Regulations
Truck drivers and companies must comply with strict FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and California state regulations. If violations like hours-of-service breaches or maintenance failures are proven, settlement values can increase dramatically.
5. Punitive Damages
If a truck company knowingly disregarded safety—like forcing drivers to work fatigued or skipping maintenance—courts may award punitive damages to punish wrongdoing. These are rarely available in standard car accident cases.
Average Settlement Differences
- Car accident claims: Often range from $15,000 – $100,000, depending on injury severity and insurance coverage.
- Truck accident claims: Frequently reach hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, especially in cases involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.
(Note: Every case is unique, and results depend on the specific facts and damages involved.)
Challenges in Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident settlements may be larger—but they are also harder to win. Trucking companies and insurers fight aggressively to limit payouts, often dispatching investigators to the crash site within hours. Victims need an attorney who understands the trucking industry and can match that level of intensity.
What Victims Should Do After a Truck Crash
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even minor symptoms can signal severe trauma.
- Call the police and document the crash. Request a copy of the report.
- Gather evidence. Photos, witness statements, and vehicle details are critical.
- Do not talk to trucking company representatives. They are trained to protect their bottom line.
- Call WIN Trial Lawyers. We know how to uncover logbook violations, maintenance records, and insurance coverages to maximize your recovery.
Why Settlement Values Matter
Truck accident victims often face lifelong medical bills, lost earning capacity, and permanent disability. A fair settlement isn’t just about repairing a car—it’s about securing your future.
WIN Trial Lawyers: Fighting for Maximum Recovery
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we have the resources and trial experience to take on trucking companies and their insurers. We fight to recover every dollar you deserve—whether through negotiation or in court.
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