Can the Trucking Company Be Held Responsible for an Accident?
Imagine you’re seriously hurt after a semi-truck collides with your vehicle. If the accident involved a standard passenger vehicle, you’d likely pin all of the fault on the other driver. However, commercial vehicle accidents could find multiple parties at fault, including the trucking company.
This article outlines the complexities of personal injury liability and how a truck accident lawyer may be able to support victims.
Situations That May Raise Trucking Company Liability Concerns
Is it possible to sue a trucking company for injuries you sustain in an accident? These businesses may be liable for your injury, particularly in the following common scenarios.
The Driver Is Reckless
Trucking companies are often subject to vicarious liability, meaning that they could bear some responsibility for their employees’ actions. If a negligent truck driver speeds, operates the vehicle while under the influence, or participates in other reckless driving behaviors, their employer may be partially liable.
Freight companies should train their drivers to operate vehicles according to standard traffic laws and industry safety regulations.
The Driver Exceeds Service Hours at Their Employer’s Insistence
There are several federal trucking regulations that transportation companies must follow, including taking steps to prevent driver fatigue. Unfortunately, some employers don’t comply with this rule. They may pressure their drivers to drive far longer than regulations allow, which could make them tired and less alert behind the wheel.
A truck accident lawyer could gather evidence like driver logs to evaluate whether they failed to comply with hours of service regulations.
The Cargo Wasn’t Loaded Into the Truck Properly
Perhaps a tractor-trailer rolls over while making a turn. Any motorists who face injuries or property damage due to this could question the company’s liability, particularly the cargo loaders. These professionals are often responsible for filling trailers in a way that keeps the cargo secure and prevents harmful weight shifts.
Mechanical Equipment Malfunctions
In compliance with federal trucking regulations, businesses must maintain their fleet by performing routine inspections. If the company ignores basic maintenance tasks and a mechanical failure leads to an accident, they may be liable, depending on the circumstances.
Why Work With a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accidents can have devastating effects on victims, and navigating the insurance claim process alone may add to their burden. Find a respected truck accident law firm with experience handling similar cases. An attorney can help gather evidence supporting your claim and assess liability.
Some cases have more than one liable party, such as the driver, the trucking company, and the mechanics they hire to perform vehicle maintenance. Filing a lawsuit against several parties can be complex, but a knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the process. They’ll evaluate your losses and request fair compensation on your behalf.
In an effort to resolve the case out of court, legal teams negotiate settlement offers that both parties can agree to. If prolonged negotiations remain at an impasse, the case will likely go to trial. Working with an experienced trial lawyer means you’ll have someone presenting your arguments in front of a judge and jury.
Discuss Your Personal Injury Case With an Experienced Attorney
Were you recently hurt in a commercial vehicle collision? Meet with a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer from Geoff McDonald & Associates to assess your options for holding the appropriate parties responsible. Our legal team has over 30 years of experience handling truck accident cases and works with our clients’ interests in mind.
With offices in Virginia Beach and Richmond, we help clients throughout Virginia. See how we may be able to assist you. Give us a call at (804) 203-0678 to schedule a free consultation.