Commercial Crashes Are Not Standard Claims

A crash involving a commercial vehicle is fundamentally different from a typical car accident. The driver may have been working, the vehicle may be owned or leased by a business, and multiple insurance policies may apply. These cases often involve employers, contractors, corporate insurers, and third parties who act quickly to protect themselves after a crash.

Injured people are often left dealing with serious physical harm while facing a claims process designed to reduce company exposure. Businesses may argue the driver was not acting within the scope of employment, shift blame to another party, or dispute the severity of injuries. Insurance carriers may push for early resolution before the long-term impact is clear. Working with a commercial vehicle accident lawyer in Columbus helps level that imbalance and protects your recovery.

The Stuckey Firm focuses exclusively on personal injury and crash-related cases. We work with you, not just for you, and build each commercial vehicle accident claim around your injuries, your goals, and what a fair outcome looks like for your future. You should not have to choose between recovering and protecting your legal rights. When you hire a lawyer, you can focus on medical care while we handle the claim, the evidence, and the insurance companies. 

What Is a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim?

A commercial vehicle accident claim is a personal injury claim involving a crash with a vehicle used for business purposes.

This can include company cars, contractor vehicles, work trucks, vans, delivery vehicles, service vehicles, and other vehicles operating for commercial benefit.

These claims often involve multiple responsible parties, including the driver, the employer, a contractor, or a company responsible for maintenance or supervision.

Commercial driving is also governed by federal safety regulations that can play a key role in determining liability.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides guidance on commercial driver requirements, safety rules, and recordkeeping obligations that may be relevant when evaluating serious commercial vehicle claims. Ohio negligence law shapes how fault is assigned and how compensation is pursued. The Ohio Revised Code provides the legal framework for civil liability in motor vehicle cases.

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The Benefits of Working With a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer in Columbus

  • Identifying All Responsible Parties - Commercial crashes often involve more than one company or insurance policy. A commercial vehicle accident attorney in Columbus helps determine whether responsibility extends beyond the driver to an employer, contractor, or another entity.
  • Preserving Critical Evidence Early - Commercial vehicles may generate driver logs, dispatch records, GPS data, onboard systems data, and maintenance histories. Early legal action helps preserve this evidence before it is lost or overwritten.
  • Building a Claim That Reflects Serious Injuries - Commercial vehicles are often larger and heavier, leading to more severe injuries. A strong claim accounts for long-term medical care, permanent limitations, and reduced earning capacity.
  • Trial-Ready Leverage When Companies Push Back - Businesses and insurers often fight harder in these cases. Trial-ready preparation strengthens your negotiating position and protects your ability to pursue full compensation.

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Does My Situation Require a Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney?

You may benefit from legal guidance if you were injured in a crash involving a company vehicle, contractor vehicle, work truck, or any vehicle being used for business purposes. Representation is especially important when the crash involves serious injuries, multiple vehicles, disputed liability, or a commercial insurance carrier.

Many people assume the company will do the right thing. In reality, businesses are often focused on limiting financial exposure. A consultation with a commercial vehicle accident lawyer in Columbus can help clarify what evidence matters, what insurance coverage may apply, and what steps protect your recovery.

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The Commercial Vehicle Accident Case Process What to Expect

Step One: Case Review and Liability Mapping

We begin by learning what happened and reviewing your injuries. We identify the type of commercial vehicle involved, who owned it, and whether the driver was acting within the scope of employment at the time of the crash.

Step Two: Evidence Collection and Documentation

Commercial vehicle cases often require deeper investigation. We gather crash reports, photographs, witness statements, medical records, vehicle ownership documents, and driving activity records. When applicable, we also review driver qualifications, safety history, and compliance issues.

Step Three: Claim Development and Demand

Once the full impact of the injuries is clear, we build a claim reflecting medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and long-term consequences. We then present a demand supported by evidence and case strategy.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Many cases resolve through negotiation. When a company or insurer refuses fair value, litigation may be necessary. We prepare every case with trial readiness so your claim remains strong regardless of how the other side responds. Pursuing litigation is not a guarantee of a trial, as many cases settle before reaching that step once the pressure is on.

Common Commercial Vehicle Accident Scenarios

Commercial vehicle crashes occur in many contexts, including:

  • A company-owned vehicle rear-ending another driver in traffic
  • A contractor vehicle speeding to meet deadlines
  • A service vehicle making unsafe turns or backing into traffic
  • A work truck failing to yield or running a red light
  • A commercial driver operating while fatigued or distracted

In many cases, unsafe corporate practices contribute to the crash. This may include unrealistic schedules, inadequate training, poor supervision, or failure to maintain vehicles. These factors matter because they can shift liability beyond the driver alone.

“Christian took on the insurance company by storm and turned a very stressful situation around very quickly.”

—R.R.

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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

Commercial vehicle cases can feel intimidating because the other side often has significant resources. We work with you, not just for you, keeping you informed and involved so the legal strategy reflects your priorities.

Trial-Ready Preparation for High-Stakes Claims

Commercial crashes demand thorough investigation and strong documentation. We preserve evidence early, prepare every case carefully, and pursue outcomes that reflect the true impact of the injury.

Credibility That Helps Your Case Be Taken Seriously

Our attorneys are respected statewide and known for bringing well-prepared claims. That credibility matters when businesses and insurers attempt to dispute liability or minimize injuries.

Commercial Vehicle Accidents Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a commercial vehicle accident?

A crash may qualify when the vehicle involved was being used for business purposes, including company cars, contractor vehicles, work trucks, service vans, or delivery vehicles.

What if the company claims the driver was an independent contractor?

Businesses often use contractor labels to limit liability. These situations require careful legal analysis of control, responsibility, and insurance coverage.

How soon should I speak with a lawyer after a commercial vehicle crash?

As soon as possible. Critical evidence can be lost quickly, and early legal guidance helps preserve proof and protect your claim.

Can a company be responsible if the driver was working?

In many cases, yes. Employers may be responsible when a driver causes a crash while performing job duties. Liability depends on the facts and employment relationship.

Why are commercial vehicle cases more complex than standard car accidents?

They often involve multiple insurance policies, corporate legal teams, federal safety rules, and additional evidence such as driver logs and company records.

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Talk With a Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney in Columbus

If you were injured by a commercial driver or business vehicle and are unsure what to do next, we are here to help. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with a commercial vehicle accident attorney in Columbus and get clear guidance focused on protecting your recovery and your future.

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If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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