Truck Accidents

The consequences of involvement in a truck accident can be catastrophic. A truck as defined under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (FVWR) greater than 10,000 pounds. Because of the serious consequences that can happen if a truck is in an accident, trucks and the trucking industry are highly regulated by both state and federal laws.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports on fatal crashes involving motor vehicles traveling on public roads through its Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Large trucks are defined as trucks that weigh more than 10,000 pounds.

Definitions

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) recognized as the most reliable national crash database containing information only on fatal crashes. It defines a large truck as a truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (FVWR) greater than 10,000 pounds.

General Estimates System (GES) is maintained by NHTSA and is a probability based nationally representative sample of police reported fatal, injury, and property damage only crashes.

Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS) Crash File

Truck Accident Facts

• Who regulates the Truck Industry?
• What are the duties and responsibilities of a truck driver?
• What are some common causes of truck accidents?
• What am I entitled to if I am in a truck accident?