Truck accident claims can be complicated due to different reasons, including they typically result in serious injuries (the requested compensation may be high), and it can be challenging to know who to hold liable. While the driver may be the first party to blame, they may not be responsible for an accident.
Here is what you should know:
Driver negligence
If a truck accident occurs due to a driver’s negligence, including a violation of traffic laws (speeding, being distracted, driving while drunk or running a red light) or a violation of truck driving regulations, such as driving beyond accepted hours without rest, they can be held liable. The accident would not have occurred if the driver had observed reasonable care to keep other road users safe.
Other parties’ negligence
Sometimes other parties may be held accountable if they contributed to the crash. For example, a company’s unrealistic expectations and poor scheduling could pressure a driver into taking risks. If this happens, the trucking company may be held partly liable if an accident occurs. A trucking company might also bear responsibility for an accident caused by poor vehicle inspection/maintenance. Other reasons include poor hiring practices and inadequate hiring or training.
Cargo loaders may be responsible for an accident caused by improper securing, overloading and improper loading. For example, when a loader stacks cargo too high, causing it to fall off in transit. If the cargo falls on another vehicle or a driver hits it, the cargo loader may be held liable for the accident.
A truck’s manufacturer may be answerable for an accident caused by equipment failure. These include brake failure, tire blowout, steering failure, engine failure and so on.
If you are involved in a truck accident, you should contact an attorney to determine the party to blame for your injuries and damages.