In June, the Trump administration dropped consideration of raising minimum insurance coverage in the commercial trucking industry. Safety advocates have been calling for a higher insurance coverage minimum for tractor-trailers for years. The current minimum is $750,000. This number hasn’t changed in over three decades, and while that initially sounds like a lot of money, the expenses associated with truck accidents can add up quickly, especially if injuries are severe or catastrophic. This coverage minimum is outdated and inadequate. Many large trucking companies know that the coverage minimum is outdated and inadequate, so they carry much higher coverage. Smaller independent truckers and trucking companies are the ones who are still carrying the bare minimum.
Injury Causing and Fatal Truck Crashes in The U.S.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 4,000 people are killed in crashes involving large trucks each year. Additionally, more than a 100,000 people are injured in truck crashes every year. The expenses associated with these crashes are often in the hundreds of thousands of dollars and up. Initial hospital visits are just the beginning. Where catastrophic and severe injuries are concerned, there could be a need for lifelong care. If the insurance minimum is only $750,000, victims can be left high and dry with a lifetime of medical bills.
Negligence and Carelessness Behind the Wheel of a Big Rig
Big rigs, semi trucks and tractor-trailers are much larger, heavier and more difficult to stop than other cars, light trucks and SUVs. If you’re in an accident with one of these vehicles, the consequences can be devastating. The team at Alexander Law Group, LLP has been helping victims injured by careless, dangerous and negligent truck drivers for years. If a truck driver falls asleep at the wheel and your loved one gets permanently injured, you’re going to need compensation for medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages, in home care and a variety of other injury-related expenses. Additionally, you’re going to need a lawyer who holds negligent trucking companies and drivers accountable for their actions.
Alexander Law Group, LLP is always ready to answer questions and share the results of our research and experience with the public. Our goal is to make a difference for our clients and our community.
