Commercial truck accidents are more complex compared to car accidents. Not only does a truck accident often result in catastrophic or fatal injuries due to the massive size and weight of such vehicles, but more than one party may be responsible for causing the crash.
The following are some of the potentially liable parties in a truck accident:
Truck driver – Truckers generally cause accidents because of negligent behavior, whether it’s violating a traffic law, driving while distracted, or even intoxicated driving. In most cases, it is only the driver who is held responsible for the injury or property damage. Truck drivers are also required to inspect and maintain their vehicle, so failure to do any of these things can make them responsible for an accident caused by a damaged or worn truck component.
Trucking company – Trucking companies can be held responsible for their truck drivers’ actions, especially if they employ drivers who are otherwise not qualified to operate a commercial vehicle or provide inadequate training. Additionally, some truck companies cut corners by failing to properly maintain or inspect their vehicles and allow their drivers to stay on the road longer than the FMCSA hours-of-service (HOS) limits.
Cargo loader and shipper – If a cargo loader fails to properly inspect the cargo and secure it properly, the loader or shipper could be held liable for a collision if a piece of cargo shifts and falls off the vehicle and lands on another vehicle or in the middle of the road. Furthermore, if too much cargo is loaded onto the vehicle, the extra weight can make driving the truck more difficult and potentially cause an accident.
Truck part maker or manufacturer – If a truck accident was caused by a defective or failing auto part, then the truck part manufacturer and/or distributor can be held liable for a collision. Common defective auto parts include tires, brakes, and even steering systems.
At Rodriguez & Gimbert, we can conduct a thorough investigation of a truck accident to determine all the potentially liable parties who contributed to the crash. With nearly five decades of collective experience, we know what it takes to recover your entitled compensation.
Contact us today at (979) 559-3599 for a free consultation and learn about our legal services.