Truck accidents—especially those involving 18-wheelers and commercial motor vehicles—often cause far more damage than a typical passenger-car crash.
But the physical impact isn’t the only thing that makes these cases different.
South Carolina trucking collisions follow different laws, regulations, parties, and evidence rules, making them significantly more complex.
Why South Carolina Truck Accident Laws Are Different
Unlike standard car wrecks, 18-wheeler accident claims usually involve a mix of state and federal rules. Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and South Carolina traffic laws.
Key SC Statutes That Often Apply:
- SC Code §56-5-500 et seq. – General rules of the road, including speed limits, lane usage, and following distance.
- SC Code §56-5-4070 – Specific requirements for commercial motor vehicles regarding lighting, brakes, and safety equipment.
- SC Code §56-5-4100 et seq. – Weight, load, and cargo securement rules—important in cases involving falling or shifting cargo.
Because trucking is heavily regulated, violations of these laws often help establish negligence in an SC truck injury claim.
More Parties May Be Legally Responsible
In a two-car wreck, liability usually comes down to the drivers involved. But in South Carolina truck accident laws, liability may involve:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
- The maintenance contractor
- A truck parts manufacturer
- A broker or logistics company
This matters because multiple insurance policies and corporate entities can come into play.
Courts in South Carolina have recognized the role of employer responsibility in commercial vehicle cases. See, for example, S.C. Dep’t of Transp. v. First Carolina Corp. of S.C., 372 S.C. 295 (2007), which discusses principles of agency and control—issues often relevant in 18-wheeler cases.
Truck Accident Evidence Is Completely Different
If you’ve been hit by a regular passenger car, the evidence usually includes photographs, witness statements, and crash reports. But 18-wheeler accident claims generally involve far more technical documentation.
Important Evidence Unique to Truck Crash Cases
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data — Shows driver hours and possible fatigue
- Black box / ECM data — Captures speed, braking, and throttle use
- Driver qualification files — Required under federal law
- Maintenance logs — Useful for determining negligent repairs
- Cargo loading records — Critical in jackknife or rollover cases
- Dispatch records and trip sheets — Show scheduling and route pressures
These records can disappear fast, so prompt action is often necessary to preserve them.
Insurance Policies Are Usually Much Larger
Under 49 C.F.R. § 387.9, interstate commercial trucks are required to carry minimum liability insurance of $750,000, and often much more depending on the cargo.
By contrast, South Carolina only requires $25,000 per person in bodily injury coverage for standard passenger cars (SC Code §38-77-140).
This difference in coverage often changes how negotiations are handled and why trucking companies quickly send investigators to crash scenes.
Commercial Drivers Follow Stricter Safety Rules
Commercial truck drivers must comply with the FMCSRs, which require:
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Limits on hours of service (HOS)
- Medical certification
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Cargo and weight limits
Violations of these rules can help show negligence. South Carolina courts have allowed federal standards to be used as evidence of the standard of care in negligence actions. See Ratliff v. Cooper Labs., 444 F.3d 723 (4th Cir. 2006), applying federal regulations in evaluating negligence claims.
Damages Can Be More Extensive
Victims of serious commercial vehicle accident collisions in South Carolina may pursue damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Future medical needs
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages (SC Code §15-51-10)
Truck accident injuries are often life-altering, so the damages can be substantial.
Common Causes of South Carolina 18-Wheeler Crashes
Truck crashes in SC often involve:
- Fatigued driving
- Speeding
- Overloaded trailers
- Improper maintenance
- Distracted driving
- Brake or tire failures
- Improper lane changes
Because of the size of trucks, even a small mistake can cause catastrophic results.
FAQ: South Carolina Truck Accident Laws
How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident claim in South Carolina?
Generally, three years from the date of the crash under SC Code §15-3-530. Wrongful death actions follow the same timeline.
Are trucking companies required to keep logbooks and ELD data?
Yes. Federal regulations require carriers to maintain driver logs, ELD records, and maintenance files for specific periods.
Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was at fault?
Often yes, through principles of employer responsibility or negligent hiring/ supervision. Liability depends on the facts of the case.
Do truck drivers have stricter rules than regular drivers?
Absolutely. They must follow both South Carolina traffic laws and FMCSA regulations.
Need help with your car accident case in South Carolina?
Understanding South Carolina truck accident laws is essential because 18-wheeler accident claims differ dramatically from ordinary car wrecks.
Between federal regulations, corporate defendants, and specialized evidence, these cases demand close attention and careful handling.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler or commercial truck crash, Coastal Law is here to help you understand your options.
Reach us through our contact page here.
