Why truck cases are not big car cases
A commercial truck crash on I-70 or I-25 typically involves the driver, the trucking company, the cargo shipper, a maintenance contractor, and often the truck or component manufacturer — each with their own insurance and their own lawyers.
Federal FMCSA rules matter
Interstate carriers are governed by FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations, including:
- Hours-of-service limits (how long a driver may drive).
- Electronic logging device (ELD) records.
- Drug and alcohol testing after any qualifying crash.
- Vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements.
- Driver qualification files.
Violations of these rules can dramatically strengthen a claim — but only if the evidence is preserved.
Multiple sources of insurance
Interstate motor carriers are required to carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage (higher for hazardous materials). Umbrella policies and shipper/broker policies often push available coverage into the millions — which is one reason serious truck cases can resolve for far more than car cases.
Colorado-specific considerations
- Mountain corridor crashes on I-70: brake failure, chain law violations.
- Weather-related crashes and reasonable-speed disputes.
- Colorado's modified comparative fault still applies — your share of fault reduces recovery.
What to look for in a Denver truck-accident lawyer
- Experience specifically with commercial vehicle cases.
- Familiarity with FMCSA regulations and ELD data.
- Willingness to hire accident reconstruction experts.
- Resources to litigate against corporate defense firms.