Every accident where pedestrians and vehicles are involved can take a serious turn in no time. However, if you consider truck accident claims to be similar to pedestrian accident claims, and you assume that you don’t need an attorney with expertise in the separate fields, then you’re making a grave mistake.
While both claim types fall under personal injury law, they differ significantly in how the investigation process is carried on, the legal responsibility of the defendant, and insurance coverage. At Rah Law in Springfield, MO, we’ve seen firsthand how these differences impact victims’ paths to justice.
Injury claims involving pedestrians often revolve around drivers’ negligence and clear right-of-way rules. In contrast, truck accidents entail stricter regulatory scrutiny, commercial insurance policies, and higher financial stakes. Understanding these differences is essential if you’re seeking compensation after an accident.
Let’s break down the legal challenges that set these two claim types apart.
Liability and Fault Are Determined Differently
Pedestrian Accidents
- Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way, especially in crosswalks.
- Liability usually lies with the driver, particularly in town or near schools.
- Eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, and police reports are most important for justice.
Truck Accidents
- Do not assume that it’s always the driver at fault. Liability can also lie with the trucking firm, vehicle owner, or even a third-party contractor.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules are also considered during the investigation of truck accident claims. Only licensed truck accident attorneys in Springfield can handle the complications of such cases.
- Driver logs, maintenance records, event data recorders, and black box information are verified for claim settlement.
Insurance Coverage Is Not the Same
Pedestrian accident claims generally call for a single auto insurance policy. Truck crash claims, by contrast, fall under commercial policies with higher limits of coverage and intense dissection of the incident and the reason that caused it.
Truck insurance companies will typically move quickly to limit payouts. Victims are often overwhelmed without adequate legal assistance. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Springfield will assist in guarding your rights in a pedestrian accident claim adjustment, whereas truck accident lawyers deal with commercial cases.
The Injuries and Damages Differ in Scale
Truck wrecks are most likely to result in serious trauma, multi-vehicle crashes, and life-changing injury or loss of life. The victims can suffer lengthy hospital stays and permanent disability. These cases require detailed documentation of the medical treatment, lost income, and future care requirements.
Pedestrian injuries can be severe when accidents happen due to high speeds, but involvement of fewer parties and less property damage can accelerate the claim settlement process.
Time Limits to File Vary As Per the Case
Five years is the timeframe in which to sue for personal injuries in Missouri. In truck accidents, however, evidence is gathered later on because of regulatory reviews and company investigations. To avoid being too late to file, filing early is imperative in both instances.
Legal Strategy Depends on the Type of Claim
- Pedestrian claims usually rely on traffic violations and negligence.
- Truck accident claims encompass inspection of negligent hiring, hour-of-service violations, federal regulation violations, or improper cargo loading. Truck cases settle more slowly because the claim amount is usually higher and includes rigorous investigations.
Choose A Competent Lawyer in Springfield Who Respects the Differences
Whether you were injured as a pedestrian or in a truck collision, legal recourse varies. At Rah Law, we know Springfield’s personal injury law for both cases. Our method is customized, evidence-based, and client-centered. Contact us today for a case review. We’ll evaluate your accident claim and guide your next steps with care and clarity.
