Panel Truck Accidents

Panel Truck Accidents 

Panel trucks play an important role in the transportation industry.  A panel truck, also known as a delivery van or panel van, is a type of commercial vehicle that is primarily designed for transporting goods or cargo. It is characterized by its enclosed body structure, which consists of a cabin for the driver and a large cargo area at the rear. In terms of size, panel trucks can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. However, they generally fall into the category of light-duty or medium-duty commercial vehicles. Light-duty panel trucks typically have a length ranging from 12 to 20 feet (3.7 to 6.1 meters), while medium-duty panel trucks can be longer, reaching up to 26 feet (7.9 meters) in length. The weight of a panel truck can also vary depending on its size and the materials used in its construction. Light-duty panel trucks typically have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 pounds. Medium-duty panel trucks, on the other hand, can have a GVWR ranging from 10,000 to 26,000 pounds. It’s important to note that the weight of a panel truck includes not only the vehicle itself but also the cargo it carries, fuel, passengers, and any additional equipment or modifications. The weight distribution within the cargo area is also a crucial factor to ensure safe and balanced transportation. 

Panel trucks are commonly used by businesses for various purposes, such as delivery services, mobile workshops, and utility vehicles. Their enclosed cargo area provides security and protection for the transported goods, making them suitable for a wide range of industries and applications. 

Because of the size and weight disparity between these types of vehicles and passenger vehicles, accidents involving the two can have serious consequences.  If you or a loved one has been involved in a panel truck accident, it is essential to understand your rights and seek legal representation from VanDerGinst Law to ensure fair compensation. 

Common Causes of Panel Truck Accidents 

Panel truck accidents can occur due to various factors, including:  

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment and reaction times. Fatigued drivers are more likely to cause accidents.  
• Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities like texting, eating, or using GPS while driving can divert a panel truck driver’s attention, increasing the risk of collisions.  
• Improper Loading: Overloading or improperly securing cargo can affect the vehicle’s stability, leading to accidents, especially during sudden maneuvers or turns.  
• Mechanical Failures: Neglected maintenance, faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues can contribute to panel truck accidents.  
• Inadequate Training: Insufficient training in handling large vehicles can result in inexperienced drivers making critical errors on the road. 

Common Injuries Sustained in Panel Truck Accidents 

Panel truck accidents can cause severe injuries due to their size and weight. Some common injuries include:  

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The impact of a panel truck collision can result in head injuries, ranging from concussions to severe TBIs, leading to long-term cognitive impairments. 
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents involving panel trucks can cause spinal cord damage, resulting in partial or complete paralysis, affecting the victim’s mobility and quality of life.  
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a panel truck collision can lead to fractures and broken bones, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.  
• Internal Injuries: The sudden impact of a panel truck accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may require immediate surgical intervention.  
• Emotional Trauma: Panel truck accidents can leave victims with emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. 

Bringing a Claim for Injuries Sustained in an Panel Truck Accident 

The forms of financial relief which may be available include (but are not limited to): 

• Medical bills 
• Past and future lost income 
• Pain and suffering 
• Disability (failure to enjoy a normal life) 
• Wrongful death (if there is a loss of life) 
• Scarring 
• Emotional distress/mental anguish 
• Loss of consortium 
• Property damage 
• Out of pocket expenses  

How Much Compensation Should You Get for Your Injuries? 

Any attorney who would attempt to give you the true value of your claim without a detailed analysis is either incompetent or untrustworthy.   

Valuing a claim involves answering the following questions: 

• Are your injuries severe or permanent? 
• What are the nature of your injuries? 
• What type of treatment did your injuries require? 
• What was the length of your care and treatment? 
• Are you still receiving treatment?  If so, for how long do you expect to continue treating? 
• What was the cost of your care and treatment?  What do you expect the cost of future care to be? 
• Did you have to miss any work due to your injuries? 

• Did you lose any wages? If so, how much income have you lost? 
• Are you expected to lose further income?  If so, for how long? 
• Do you experience pain and suffering related to your injuries?  If so, how would you rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10 and how has the pain evolved over the course of time? 
• Did you require specialized medical equipment, such as a wheelchair or ramp after your injury? 
• Did the accident leave you disfigured or scarred in any way? 
• Did you sustain any temporary or permanent disability? If so, what were they? 

These are just a few questions to assist in determining a fair compensation amount in an Panel Truck accident case.  A consultation with VanDerGinst Law can help you obtain a better understanding regarding compensation available to you. 

Wrongful Death Actions 

If your loved one died as a result of injuries sustained in a panel truck accident, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.  Typically, close family members, such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings may pursue a wrongful death action. The compensation you receive will never replace the loss of your loved one, but it will allow you to be compensated for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost financial support, and compensation for your grief and emotional distress.   

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today 

An accident involving a panel truck can leave you injured, with high medical bills, the inability to work, and pain and suffering.  VanDerGinst law can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.  Call today 800-960-8529 or click here.