Who Is Liable For A Semi-Truck Accident?

Figuring out who is at fault in a semi-truck accident is often a complicated endeavor. Unlike typical car accidents, several parties could be held responsible for the crash. If you have been injured in an accident involving a truck, understanding who is at fault is the first step towards your entitled compensation. The experienced attorneys at Paul Rossi Law Offices can help you navigate this difficult time and pursue the justice you need to move forward.

Depending on the specifics of your case, the following parties may be held liable for your injuries:

• Truck Driver
• Trucking Company
• Vehicle Manufacturer
• Cargo Loaders
• Maintenance Providers

Can the Truck Driver Be Held Liable?

The truck driver can often be held liable for an accident. Drivers are required to follow strict federal and state regulations, and any failure to do so can lead to a devastating crash. Common driver errors that result in liability include:

• Speeding or failing to adjust for poor weather conditions
• Driving while fatigued or violating hours-of-service rules
• Texting or using a phone while driving
• Operating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Following other vehicles too closely or making unsafe lane changes

If a driver’s negligence caused the accident, they can be held responsible for the damages.

Is the Trucking Company Responsible?

It is the responsibility of trucking companies to prioritize and maintain the safety of their operations. This responsibility extends to hiring qualified drivers, properly maintaining their vehicles, and promoting safe driving practices. A trucking company may be found negligent if it:

• Hires drivers who have a history of reckless driving or without a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
• Fails to conduct required drug and alcohol testing on its drivers.
• Encourages or allows drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations to meet deadlines.
• Does not properly maintain its fleet, leading to mechanical failures like faulty brakes or worn-out tires.

If a company’s policies or lack of oversight lead to an accident, it can be held legally responsible for any injuries that occur.

What if the Cargo Was Loaded Improperly?

Liability for an accident is not always limited to the driver or the trucking company. The party responsible for loading cargo onto the truck may also bear liability. Cargo that is improperly secured, unbalanced, or overweight can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to a rollover or jackknife accident. The individuals or company that loaded the cargo must follow specific guidelines to ensure the load is secure. If they fail to do so, they may be held responsible.

Could a Manufacturer Be at Fault?

Sometimes, a faulty or defective truck part may be the cause of the accident. If a critical component like the brakes, tires, or steering mechanism fails due to a design or manufacturing defect, the manufacturer of that part can be held liable. For instance, if a truck’s brakes fail and cause a collision, the brake manufacturer could be responsible for the damages.

How Is Liability Proven in a Truck Accident Case?

Proving who is at fault requires a thorough investigation and collection of evidence. It is crucial to act quickly to preserve key information that can support your claim. Important evidence often includes:

• Police reports from the accident scene
• Statements from witnesses
• Images and videos of the incident, vehicles, and injuries
• The truck’s “black box” data, which records speed, braking, and other critical information
• Driver logs and trucking company records
• Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists

Gathering this evidence is essential to holding the responsible parties accountable.

Let Us Help You Move Forward

After a semi-truck accident, identifying the liable parties and gathering the necessary evidence can be overwhelming. With over 75 years of litigation experience, the attorneys at Paul Rossi Law Offices have the knowledge and resources to handle your case. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. to determine who is responsible and relentlessly advocate for the full compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support you every step of the way.