Motor vehicle collisions encompass many different vehicles, and their impact is not always the same. Minor accidents may involve little more than property damage. However, catastrophic crashes on Massachusetts roads might result in fatalities. While a small vehicle could definitely cause much harm, severe damage or injury risks increase when a larger vehicle strikes a smaller one.
Crashes involving larger vehicles
Larger vehicles have designs that are different from smaller models, which add complexities to the situation. A pickup truck or an SUV may have greater blind spots than a smaller vehicle. Therefore, other drivers may attempt to be more careful when changing lanes and parking. With commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, the blind spots could be greater. So, careful truck drivers may be more cautious on the road. Unfortunately, accidents related to blind spots may still occur.
A larger vehicle may inflict excessive damage because of its size and mass. A vehicle weighing more than 5,000 pounds could inflict crushing force onto a smaller model. Other hazardous conditions may exist, such as when the cargo of a tractor-trailer falls off in a crash and hits another vehicle or pedestrian.
Collisions and liabilities
Drivers of oversized vehicles would benefit by employing extreme care because of the chance of multi-vehicle collisions. A tractor-trailer could jackknife and hit several vehicles, meaning more potential victims. Similarly, these types of motor vehicle accidents could be the fault of multiple parties. Employers who did not maintain their fleets or ensure their drivers take mandatory breaks could be liable. Even mechanics, manufacturers and other drivers could be responsible in some instances.
Filing an insurance claim or multiple insurance claims against various negligent parties may result in receiving compensation. Effective negotiations may result in an agreeable settlement amount.
