U-Haul trucks and other moving vehicles are a common sight on San Antonio roadways. You might not think much of them – until you are involved in an accident with them and realize how dangerous they are for regular drivers to operate.
If you are hurt in a U-Haul accident, you need an experienced San Antonio U-Haul accident lawyer who can help guide you through the legal process. Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers for a free review of your San Antonio truck accident case.
Licensing Requirement for Moving Trucks in Texas
Many motorists who are injured in an accident with a U-Haul, Penske, or Budget truck are surprised to learn that a commercial driver’s license is not required to drive this type of vehicle, even though the vehicles are often as large as other types of commercial vehicles that do require a special license and training. This means that a driver with just a basic driver’s license can rent a truck as large as 26 feet (including a tower for their personal vehicle). These drivers often do not have any special training in how to operate a truck this large and may have zero experience doing it.
Common Causes of U-Haul Accidents in San Antonio
Operating a moving truck is more complicated than many people realize. Even the smallest option is larger than a typical passenger vehicle, and the complexity just increases with the size of the vehicle. They require you to make wider turns than you are used to. They sit higher than other vehicles, also making them difficult to navigate. They also have considerable blind spots.
Accidents involving these vehicles can occur for reasons such as:
- Inexperienced driving or lack of training
- Failing to check blind spots
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Aggressive driving
- Fatigued driving, as many of these moves involve traveling over several states within a few days
- Mechanical issues, which may occur due to the rental company not wanting to make repairs when this will result in lost income
- Faulty tow dollies
- Improper loading of the truck, creating an imbalance or an overloaded truck
Common Injuries from Moving Truck Accidents
Because moving trucks are much larger than passenger vehicles, collisions involving these two types of vehicles tend to result in serious injuries to those in the smaller car, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Tailbone injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
Insurance Requirments for Moving Trucks in San Antonio
A driver’s personal auto insurance does not typically cover U-Haul vehicles. Much of the insurance on moving vehicles is optional, with the emphasis on protecting the value of the truck itself, rather than damage to third parties. Coverage may include liability for injuries and property damage, damage waivers for the truck, and cargo insurance for personal belongings. Determining what insurance applies can be difficult, so it’s important to work with an experienced San Antonio motor vehicle accident attorney who can ascertain this information.
Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers for Help with Your San Antonio U-Haul Accident
If you were injured in an accident involving a U-Haul vehicle, you will likely need the skilled legal representation of a personal injury lawyer in San Antonio. George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help you navigate the complexities involved in this type of legal claim. Contact us for a free consultation at 210-225-0909.