Why Michigan Trucking Accident Cases Require Specialized Representation
A fully loaded commercial truck weighs up to 80,000 pounds. A passenger vehicle weighs about 4,000 pounds. When a truck crashes into a car, the physics are devastating. Trucking accident cases are fundamentally different from car accident cases — and they require attorneys who understand federal motor carrier regulations, trucking industry practices, and how to investigate these complex claims.
Multiple Liable Parties
Unlike a car accident where you typically sue the other driver, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. The truck driver may have been fatigued, distracted, or impaired. The trucking company may have pressured the driver to violate Hours of Service regulations, failed to maintain the vehicle, or hired an unqualified driver. The cargo loading company may have overloaded or improperly secured the freight. The truck manufacturer or parts supplier may be liable for mechanical failures. Each defendant has separate insurance, which means more potential recovery for victims.
Federal Regulations Create Higher Standards
Commercial trucks are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Hours of Service rules limit driving to 11 hours per day after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are mandatory to track compliance. Drug and alcohol testing is required. Vehicle inspection and maintenance standards are strict. Violations of these federal regulations constitute strong evidence of negligence in a civil lawsuit.
Evidence Preservation Is Critical
Trucking companies begin their own investigation within hours of a crash — often sending a rapid response team to the scene. Critical evidence including the truck's Electronic Control Module ("black box") data, ELD logs, driver qualification files, maintenance records, and dispatch communications can be altered or destroyed if not preserved immediately. Koussan Law sends spoliation letters within 24 hours of engagement to ensure all evidence is preserved.
Higher Insurance Limits
Federal law requires commercial trucks to carry minimum liability insurance of $750,000, and many carry policies of $1 million to $5 million or more. This means trucking accident cases typically have substantially more insurance coverage available than car accident cases.
If you or a loved one was involved in a trucking accident in Michigan, call Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000. Time is critical — evidence is being preserved or destroyed right now.
