What you should know about utility and crane truck accidents
Utility and crane truck accidents differ from 18-wheeler accidents. For one thing, these types of vehicles fall into different categories under the law. The Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCA) heavily regulates large trucks, including 18-wheelers. Such trucks engage in long-distance travel, and transportation laws limit the number of consecutive hours they can operate and the types of roads they can travel on.
By comparison, utility and crane trucks fall into the category of service trucks. For this reason, accidents involving these vehicles do not rely on the FMCA regulations to determine whether a driver was at fault.
What is utility or crane truck?
Utility or crane trucks are often modified pickup trucks. They have storage areas for tools, supplies and equipment. There are various types of utility trucks, including the following:
- Aluminum service body trucks that are lightweight.
- Steel service body trucks that are heavier than aluminum and stronger.
- Crane body trucks that support cranes and do heavy lifting. They can be light-duty or heavy-duty.
- Canopy body trucks that provide an enclosed mobile work station and allow working while driving.
Who is liable in utility or crane truck accidents when the service truck driver was at fault?
Depending on the factors involved with the accident, the following parties could be liable:
- Utility or service truck driver
- Company employing the service truck
- The independent contractor driving the truck
- The government or municipality who hired the driver
Often, the financial responsibility falls on the employer or company owner, especially when they own the truck. Speaking with a skilled lawyer who has experience with type of accident can help you hold responsible parties accountable.
Do you need legal help dealing with a serious car accident?
Michael R. De La Paz has experience representing clients in many different types of vehicle accidents. Our firm can represent clients in accident cases throughout Texas, including areas such as South Padre Island, Galveston or San Antonio and across the nation. Arrange a free consultation to evaluate your case.
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