Though many large trucks on Virginia roadways are cargo trucks for commercial trucking companies, this is not always true. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) defines a large truck as any truck weighing 10,000 pounds or more, so wrecks with many other types of large vehicles (such as flatbeds and box trucks) pose unique risks—which can lead to serious temporary or permanent injury.
Different Types of Truck Wrecks
Thousands of wrecks with large cargo trucks—also known as big-rigs, 18-wheelers, or semi-trucks—occur on American roads every year. However, semis aren’t the only kinds of large trucks on the road. It’s possible a wreck could occur with other large vehicles, including:
- Rental trucks. A significant danger associated with rental trucks is inadequate training. Professional truck drivers must earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to do their jobs. However, many drivers—even inattentive and reckless ones—can rent a large truck and drive it. This inexperience creates the potential for a devastating crash.
- Box trucks. Local delivery trucks often pose risks because the drivers are on a tight schedule. Florists, bakeries, package delivery services, and small businesses often use these trucks, which can be unstable and hard to maneuver.
- Emergency response trucks. Responsible drivers should always keep eyes and ears open for emergency vehicle lights and sirens, but especially those large firetrucks and ambulances. Emergency response trucks move quickly in and out of traffic as they need, which can be dangerous.
- Hazardous Materials (HM) trucks. Transporting hazardous materials is inherently high risk. Drivers of these vehicles must take extra care and caution to ensure the material remains protected and contained.
- Flatbeds. These large, open vehicles are designed to transport heavy objects that may not load easily on or off a trailer. However, debris or other objects could fall off the bed of the truck and onto another vehicle.
Recovering Fairly With an Attorney’s Help
If you’ve recently been in a crash with a large truck—whether it was a commercial semi, a moving truck, or an ambulance—it’s important you contact an attorney today. The legal team at Tavss Fletcher can help you understand your next steps and options for an adequate recovery. Call our toll-free phone number today to begin your case.
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