If you have been involved in a semi-truck accident, then you may need to seek compensatory damages. In these cases, who do you file suit against? Here is what you need to know about how to determine liability in a trucking accident.
Is the Trucking Company Liable?
If a company hires a truck driver, then the company may be the responsible party. The reasons that a trucking company might be responsible include faulty inspections, cutting corners or pushing drivers too hard to meet deadlines or to complete a trip. Normally, there will be an investigation to figure out who is liable for the truck accident. In some cases, the trucking company and the manufacturer will both be responsible for the accident. Lawyers and witnesses can help prove these cases during an investigation.
Is the Trucker Liable?
If a driver broke the law or became distracted while driving, then he or she may be responsible. In addition, if he or she was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, then he or she may be completely responsible. There are many factors involved in a truck accident. Sometimes truck drivers work long hours, drive in tough conditions or may have health conditions of their own.
Is the Owner Liable?
Sometimes the trucking company and the driver will not own the truck. If there is a separate owner involved, then it may be the owner that is liable. The owner is responsible for inspections and maintenance with the truck. There are federal regulations that owners have to follow. If they do not follow these regulations, then they may be liable for any damages.
How to Determine Liability
When it comes to a semi-truck accident, several parties might be liable. Those parties include:
- The manufacturers
- The trucking company
- The truck driver
First, you may want to consider the driver as the responsible party. However, it is not always as cut and dry. A manufacturer might be responsible due to a defect with the vehicle or the equipment that the truck uses. In addition, the company might be responsible because they are the ones responsible for inspections.
When it comes to trucking accidents, the damages are severe. It’s important to seek compensation for damages. Semi-truck accidents are incredibly complicated. It may not always be easy to figure out who is liable for the accident. It may be the driver, the company or the manufacturer. In many cases, all three of those parties might contribute to the accident. To help determine liability, set up a consultation with a truck accident lawyer today.