What Plaintiffs Need to Know about Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are some of the most devastating events on U.S. roads. Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks—especially 18-wheelers, semis, and big rigs—can cause serious injuries and fatalities when they collide with smaller vehicles. In 2025, with more trucks on the road than ever, knowing what to do after a truck accident is crucial.
Whether you're driving in Arizona, Nevada, or elsewhere in the U.S., this guide breaks down your rights, the claims process, and how trucking laws vary by state.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents often involve multiple contributing factors, including:
Driver fatigue (often from violating Hours of Service limits)
Speeding or reckless driving
Poor truck maintenance
Distracted driving
Overloaded or unsecured cargo
Hazardous weather or road conditions
These incidents can result in catastrophic injuries such as brain trauma, spinal injuries, broken bones, or even death.
Truck Accident Laws in Arizona
Arizona is a trucking corridor with heavy traffic on I-10 and I-17. It’s also a comparative fault state, meaning if you are partly at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.
Arizona Truck Accident Facts:
Victims have 2 years to file a personal injury claim.
Commercial trucks must follow Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) safety regulations.
Victims can sue for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Trucking companies may be held liable under vicarious liability laws.
Truck Accident Laws in Nevada
Nevada, particularly Las Vegas and Reno, sees frequent trucking accidents on I-15 and I-80. The state also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, barring recovery if you're more than 50% at fault.
Nevada Truck Accident Guidelines:
2-year statute of limitations to file injury claims.
Nevada law requires that trucking companies maintain minimum insurance limits, often higher than standard drivers.
Victims may pursue compensation from multiple parties: the driver, employer, or parts manufacturer.
What People Also Ask About Truck Accidents
Who is liable in a truck accident?
Liability can fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, a manufacturer, or even a maintenance provider, depending on the cause of the accident.
Can I sue a trucking company directly?
Yes. In many cases, especially when the driver was working during the crash, you can sue the company for damages.
How long does it take to settle a truck accident claim?
Anywhere from a few months to a few years. Complex cases with severe injuries or disputed fault may take longer.
Are truck accident settlements higher than car accidents?
Often, yes. Because commercial trucks can cause severe injuries and carry larger insurance policies, settlements may be significantly higher.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
Call 911 and get medical help
Take photos and gather evidence
Get contact info from all parties and witnesses
Do not admit fault
Contact a truck accident attorney
Why Legal Representation Matters
Truck accident claims are more complex than standard car crash cases. Why?
Multiple parties may be involved
Federal regulations (like FMCSA rules) must be considered
Trucking companies often have legal teams ready to minimize payouts
Having an attorney who specializes in truck accidents ensures you don’t get lowballed or misled during the claims process.
How to Prevent Truck Accidents
While not all crashes are avoidable, you can reduce your risk with the following:
Stay out of trucks' blind spots (especially on the right side)
Never cut off a truck; they need more stopping distance
Avoid distracted driving
Follow speed limits, especially in work zones or mountainous areas
Be cautious near large trucks on highways or during bad weather
Conclusion
Truck accidents can turn your life upside down. From physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial strain, the road to recovery is tough—but you don’t have to walk it alone. Whether you're in Arizona, Nevada, or any other U.S. state, understanding your rights is the first step toward justice.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, seek legal help immediately to protect your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
Truck Accident FAQs by State
California Motor Vehicle Accident FAQs
Q1: What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in California?
A: Typically 2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Claims against government entities require notice within 6 months.
Q2: Is California a comparative fault state?
A: Yes. Even if you share some fault, you can still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault.
Q3: Can I claim for emotional distress in California?
A: Yes. Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and emotional distress are recoverable.
Arizona Motor Vehicle Accident FAQs
Q1: How long do I have to file a claim in Arizona?
A: Arizona generally gives you 2 years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit.
Q2: What if I’m partly at fault in Arizona?
A: Arizona uses pure comparative fault. Even if you’re 99% at fault, you can still recover damages (reduced by your share of fault).
Q3: Are there damage caps in Arizona?
A: No. Arizona’s constitution prohibits caps on personal injury damages.
Nevada Motor Vehicle Accident FAQs
Q1: What is the statute of limitations in Nevada?
A: 2 years from the date of injury for personal injury claims. Exceptions may apply in some cases.
Q2: Does Nevada use comparative negligence?
A: Yes. Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rule bars recovery if you’re 51% or more at fault.
Q3: Can I recover for pain and suffering in Nevada?
A: Yes. Nevada law allows recovery of non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
