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(435) 767-7777 
You likely have heard many different names used for the giant vehicles that haul goods and cargo on the highway — semi-truck, tractor-trailer, big rig, 18-wheeler, or simply truck. But do each of these names refer to different types of vehicles? Are there any differences between a truck, semi-truck, and 18-wheeler?
Depending on the context, the term “truck” may refer to a wide range of commercial vehicles, including box trucks, tractor-trailers, semi-trucks and 18-wheelers in Utah. These specific terms typically refer to a truck’s body type, wheels, and other defining characteristics.
A semi-truck has two parts: a trailer, which carries cargo, and a tractor, which contains the engine. Notably, a semi-truck’s tractor can detach from its trailer, and semi-trucks often travel without trailers.
The terms 18-wheeler and tractor-trailer simply refer to a semi-truck and its trailer. Tractor-trailers are sometimes called 18-wheelers due to the total number of wheels on the tractor and trailer.
A commercial vehicle transports goods or passengers for a profit. Semi-trucks often fall under this definition. A vehicle could also be considered a commercial vehicle if it meets a certain weight threshold. A semi-truck will certainly qualify as a commercial motor vehicle when combined with a trailer.
Semi-trucks have various types of trailers, each designed for a specific job or to haul a particular kind of cargo. These include:
Semi-trucks play a crucial role in the commercial transportation industry. They are used to transport a wide range of goods, from consumer products to industrial materials, across long distances. Due to their size and weight, semi-trucks are subject to strict regulations and require specialized licenses to operate.
Commercial Motor Vehicles are defined as vehicles used for transporting goods or passengers for compensation. Semi-trucks often fall under this category, especially when they are used in conjunction with a trailer to carry cargo. They are essential to supply chains and logistics, enabling businesses to move large quantities of goods efficiently.
If you are involved in an accident with a semi-truck, your actions following the incident can significantly impact your recovery and potential compensation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
If you suffered injuries in a truck crash that was not your fault, reach out to the attorneys at Swenson & Shelley for a free, no-obligation consultation. A Utah semi-truck accident lawyer from our law firm can explain your rights and options for seeking compensation for your losses. Call or contact us today.
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