Holding a Negligent Party Accountable After a Trucking Accident
A collision between a passenger car and a truck rarely results in minor injuries. A large truck with an empty trailer can weigh in excess of 30,000 lbs, fully loaded it is easily double. The size and weight of these vehicles can make any truck accident catastrophic. But even in cases where fault seems clear-cut, it can still be challenging to prove liability.
At Truck.Law, we understand the complexities of proving legal responsibility in truck accident claims. We know that there may be one or more parties that can be held liable. Our lawyers fight to ensure that all trucking companies and other liable parties are held accountable for their wrongdoing. If you were injured in a truck accident, contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Liability in truck accident cases can quickly become complicated because of the number of parties involved. Filing a claim against the right people or entities can be critical to the success of your case. A truck accident lawyer can help you understand who may be at fault and the legal process behind holding them responsible.
Parties that may be held liable in a truck accident:
- Truck operator. Truck operators are often under extraordinary pressure to deliver goods on time. Despite federal law that requires truck operators to have mandatory breaks and rest periods, many companies push their drivers. Truck accidents are commonly caused by operator fatigue or inattention, due to a driver being on the road for an excessive amount of hours.
- Carrier (trucking company). In addition to the operator of the truck, their employer may also be held liable for resulting injuries. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial motor vehicles nationwide. It provides safety standards that must be followed. When a truck carrier fails to follow these regulations they must be held accountable.
- Truck owner. The owner of a truck may not always be the same entity as the trucking company. A trucking company may rent trucks from another carrier in an effort to meet demands. If the truck owner failed to properly maintain the truck or was otherwise negligent, they may be held legally responsible for any injuries resulting from their recklessness.
- Manufacturer of the truck. A truck manufacturer may be held liable if a defect in the design or manufacturing of the vehicle caused the accident.
- Vehicle parts manufacturer. As with all vehicles, not all parts on a truck are manufactured by a single company. Dangerous and defective products, such as exploding airbags, and faulty brakes can cause irreparable harm to the truck operator and other people on the road.
- Cargo loaders. One unique aspect of trucking accidents is that they often involve cargo. Shifting or improperly loaded cargo can throw off a truck’s balance making it unsteady and difficult to control.
- Shipping companies. As with cargo loaders, the company that ships the goods may also be held legally responsible for their wrongdoing. Liability for shipping companies often comes into play for things like failing to inspect the vehicle.
In some instances, it may be another motorist who is responsible for the accident or shares a portion of the fault. To ensure that a claim is filed against the right parties, you need to speak with a trucking accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
At Truck.Law, we represent clients nationwide who have been injured in truck accidents. Our lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
