Besides incurring a variety of costs as a result of an automobile or semi truck accident, there are a number of legal consequences that may be imposed as well.
If you are at fault in a vehicle collision then you bear the brunt of the costs to make the other party 'whole'. That means you are responsible for their (as well as any other passengers) medical fees and repairs or replacement of their vehicle.
However, if the crash results in severe injuries or death to another party then the 'stakes go up'(so to speak).
The other person or their families will most likely bring a case against you in the form of a civil suit - and ask to be awarded a higher sum than what is covered by your insurance carrier.
It is always a good idea to sit down with your local insurance agent and review your coverage. If you have questions they will be happy to answer them.
But drivers who cause a serious car accident will likely have other legal problems as well. They may get a traffic citation for any material violations that led to the accident including speeding tickets, failure to yield or obey traffic rules and devices, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If a fatality occurs then the legal consequences increase. The driver may be charged with vehicular homicide or manslaughter.
Convictions for such traffic accidents often carry stiff fines and even jail sentences. Too, the convicted driver may have their driving privileges suspended or revoked. Traffic accidents can change lives - and not for the better.
Drive safely.
