Understanding Semi-Truck Accidents
A semi-truck, also called a tractor-trailer or articulated lorry, consists of a towing engine (tractor) and a semi-trailer that carries cargo. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded—20 times heavier than a typical passenger car.
The NHTSA reports that approximately 5,000 people die annually in crashes involving large trucks, with the vast majority being occupants of smaller vehicles. The sheer size disparity makes these accidents particularly deadly.
Why Semi-Truck Accidents Are Different
- Federal regulations (FMCSA) govern the trucking industry
- Multiple parties may share liability
- Higher insurance minimums ($750K+)
- Electronic evidence (ELD, black box) is time-sensitive
FMCSA Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes regulations that trucking companies and drivers must follow. Violations of these rules can be powerful evidence of negligence:
Hours of Service (HOS) Rules
Drivers cannot operate beyond these limits:
- • 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- • 14-hour on-duty limit after coming on duty
- • 60/70 hour limit over 7/8 consecutive days
- • Required 30-minute break after 8 hours
Vehicle Maintenance Requirements
Trucking companies must maintain detailed inspection and repair records. Pre-trip and post-trip inspections are mandatory. Failure to properly maintain vehicles can establish company negligence.
Driver Qualification Standards
Companies must verify driver qualifications including CDL validity, medical certifications, driving history, and drug/alcohol testing compliance. Negligent hiring is a common claim in truck accident cases.
Critical Evidence in Semi-Truck Cases
Time-sensitive evidence must be preserved immediately. An experienced truck accident lawyer will send spoliation letters to prevent destruction of:
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data
Records hours driven, rest breaks, and potential HOS violations
Event Data Recorder (Black Box)
Captures speed, braking, steering inputs before the crash
Driver Qualification Files
Employment history, training records, violations, medical certs
Maintenance Records
Inspection reports, repair history, known defects
Dispatch Records
Communications that may show pressure to violate safety rules
Cargo Documentation
Bills of lading, weight tickets, loading procedures
Legal Timeline
Acting quickly is essential in semi-truck accident cases:
Send spoliation letter to preserve evidence; trucking companies can legally destroy some records after 6 months
Obtain police report, gather witness information, document injuries
Complete medical treatment documentation, gather expert opinions
Statute of limitations varies by state; file lawsuit before deadline
Steps After a Semi-Truck Accident
- 1
Seek Medical Attention
Your health is the priority. Document all injuries and follow treatment plans.
- 2
Report the Accident
Ensure police are called and a report is filed. Obtain the report number.
- 3
Document Everything
Photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions. Get witness contact information.
- 4
Don't Give Recorded Statements
Politely decline to give statements to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
- 5
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer
Time is critical for evidence preservation. Get a free case evaluation.