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Help & Information

We have straight answers to difficult questions to help you navigate legal process and secure financial compensation.

At Thomas J. Henry Law, we want to ensure all injured victims are informed and knowledgeable about their rights. The legal process can be complicated, confusing, and overwhelming, especially when you are also dealing with the aftermath of an accident or injury.

Thomas J. Henry Law has prepared the following Infographics, FAQs, Videos, and Personal Injury Legal Guides to assist you on your road to recovery. If you wish to speak directly with an attorney, contact our offices now for a FREE Case Consultation – we are available 24/7, nights and weekends.


Your questions answered

What Should I Consider When Hiring a Commercial Motor Vehicle Injury Lawyer?

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a commercial vehicle accident, it is essential that you obtain competent legal representation. Choosing the right attorney to handle your commercial vehicle accident claim can make the difference in you and your family get the financial recovery you deserve.

Here are a few items you should consider when looking for a personal injury attorney to handle your case:

  • Hire an attorney with significant trial experience
  • Hire an attorney who has access to top expert witnesses
  • Hire an attorney with the resources to take on large companies
  • Hire an attorney who operates on a contingency-fee-basis
When Does a Vehicle Become a Commercial Vehicle?

In the United States, a vehicle may be considered a commercial vehicle if:

  • It is titled or registered to a company or a corporation.
  • Is used for business, but is under the name of a sole proprietor for that business.
  • Is a leased vehicle and in the name of the financial institution that owns it.
  • Exceeds a certain weight or class, even if it is not used commercially or company-owned. Generally, any vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more is considered a commercial vehicle, regardless of use or ownership.
  • Is used in the transportation of hazardous materials.

Note that a vehicle used for business may remain privately licensed depending on the amount of time it is used for business.

What Are Some Common Examples of Commercial Vehicles?

Among the commercial vehicles that most occupy public roadways are:

  • Large trucks
  • Box trucks
  • Delivery trucks
  • Semi-trucks
  • Tractor-trailers
  • Travel trailers exceeding 10,000 pounds
  • Large vans (intended to carry more than 15 passengers)
  • Taxicabs
  • Coaches
  • Buses
  • Heavy equipment (backhoes, bulldozers, large farm equipment, etc.)
What Is a Commercial Vehicle?

In the United States, “commercial vehicle” is a pretty broad term. Many times, when a layman thinks of a commercial vehicle, they think of a delivery truck or an 18-wheeler; however, in the United States, commercial vehicles can also include fleet vehicles, passenger transports, company cars, and other vehicles used for business.

What Kind of Injuries Result from Commercial Vehicle Accidents?

Depending on the size of the commercial motor vehicle and the severity of the wreck, injuries can widely vary. For example, a crash involving an 80,000 lb. semi-truck and a passenger vehicle could result in catastrophic injuries or death. Common commercial vehicle accident injuries include:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal organ injuries
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Soft tissue injuries (such as whiplash)
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Psychological and mental injuries
Who is Liable for Your Injuries in a Commercial Vehicle Wreck?

Commercial vehicle and truck accident cases can be complex because there are multiple parties that could be held liable for your injuries, including the vehicle’s driver, the company that owns or operates the commercial motor vehicle, or the vehicle’s manufacturer.

Companies are generally responsible for the actions of their employees. Unqualified management of a commercial vehicle fleet could lead to unqualified drivers. Employers may be liable for:

  • Failure to properly train drivers
  • Failure to maintain vehicle
  • Negligent hiring practices
  • Failure to verify proper driver licensing or certification
  • Negligent supervision

Deciding who to sue (and where to sue) largely depends on the facts surrounding your case and how the accident was caused. An attorney with experience handling commercial vehicle accidents understands how to determine who the negligent party is.

Thomas J. Henry has helped victims in commercial motor vehicle accidents stand up against large companies and corporations and get them the compensation they deserve. When up against a law firm with extensive legal and financial resources and a proven record of winning big cases, companies are more apt to offer an appropriate settlement amount.

Contact us for a free case review

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