Accidents with Commercial Vehicles and Unique Lawsuits

Commercial Vehicle Defined

A commercial vehicle is any motor vehicle that is used by a business for the transportation of materials, goods, or passengers. The most common example is the tractor-trailer, or eighteen wheeler truck. These oversized vehicles are used to carry a variety of large loads, from produce and lumber to cars and even hazardous or flammable materials. A car accident involving a tractor-trailer is usually a serious one.

Other examples of commercial vehicles include delivery trucks and vans, utility or cable repair vans, landscaping vehicles, and armored trucks. They also include those vehicles that are used to transport passengers, such as buses and shuttle vans.

Why Car Accidents with Commercial Vehicle Is Different

Because commercial vehicles are generally large and heavy, more difficult to maneuver, and cause more damage in an accident, they are subject to stricter regulation than private-use vehicles. An investigation must be made to ensure that all regulations for commercial vehicles were followed whenever a commercial vehicle is involved in a car accident. A lawyer from our practice, serving Seattle, Tacoma and all of Washington State, can help. If the owner or driver of the vehicle failed to properly operate or maintain the vehicle, the victim may be entitled to compensation.

Washington State Commercial Vehicle Regulations

In order to drive a single or combined vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more, a vehicle that carries 16 or more people, or a vehicle that is carrying hazardous materials in Washington State, the driver is required to have a commercial driver's license (CDL). Furthermore, many types of commercial vehicles, including those carrying 16 or more passengers, require the driver to have an additional endorsement on their CDL. As part of their qualification, commercial drivers are required undergo regular medical examinations and keep a valid physical examination card in their possession.

Owners and drivers of commercial vehicles are required to keep their vehicles in safe and working order at all times. Drivers must conduct pre- and post-trip inspections every time the truck, bus, or van is used to be sure all systems are working properly and all safety equipment is present and in good condition. If any feature of the vehicle is out of order, it may not be used for the transportation of goods or passengers until it has been fixed.

These are just a few of the extra precautions that commercial vehicle owners and drivers are required to take. If a car accident involving a commercial vehicle occurs and these regulations have not been followed, Phillips Webster may be able to help the victims of the accident obtain compensation for damages.

Contact a Leading Car Accident Lawyer Serving Seattle and Tacoma, Washington

If you have been involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle of any kind, contact Phillips Webster to talk with a car accident lawyer. We help residents of Seattle, Tacoma, and other areas in Washington State pursue the financial compensation they deserve.