Big rig accidents often result in devastating injuries and significant property damage due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Unlike standard car accidents, legal claims involving big rig collisions are typically more complex because they often involve multiple defendants. These defendants may include the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers of truck parts. Identifying all potentially liable parties is essential for victims to receive full compensation. Our friends at Johnston | Martineau PLLP discuss how a truck accident lawyer can help identify and hold each party accountable.
The Role Of The Truck Driver
The truck driver is often the first party considered in a big rig accident. Driver negligence can take many forms, such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. In some cases, a driver may have violated federal hours-of-service regulations, leading to fatigue and impaired judgment.
While the driver’s actions are critical to understanding the cause of the accident, liability doesn’t always end there. Drivers are typically employees or contractors working under a larger trucking company, and their actions can sometimes implicate their employers.
Trucking Companies And Their Responsibilities
Trucking companies play a central role in big rig operations and often bear significant responsibility when accidents occur. Companies are tasked with hiring qualified drivers, maintaining vehicles, and adhering to safety regulations. If they fail in these duties, they may be held liable.
For example, if a trucking company knowingly hired an unqualified or undertrained driver, they may share responsibility for an accident caused by that driver. Similarly, a company that skips routine vehicle inspections or pushes drivers to exceed legal hours-of-service limits could be found negligent. Establishing this type of liability often requires a thorough investigation into company records, policies, and practices.
Cargo Loaders And Improper Loading
Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo is a leading cause of big rig accidents. Cargo that shifts during transit can cause a truck to lose balance, leading to rollover accidents or jackknifing. Overloaded trucks may also exceed weight limits, making it harder for drivers to stop or maneuver safely.
In these situations, liability may extend to the company or individuals responsible for loading the cargo. Proving that improper loading contributed to an accident often involves reviewing shipping records, weight logs, and analysis of the truck’s cargo at the time of the crash.
Manufacturers And Defective Equipment
Defective parts or equipment failures can also contribute to big rig accidents. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions are all potential hazards that may stem from manufacturing defects. In such cases, the manufacturer of the defective part or the company responsible for its maintenance may share liability.
To determine whether defective equipment played a role, legal teams often rely on expert evaluations of the truck and its components. This evidence can then be used to pursue claims against manufacturers or maintenance providers.
Maximizing Compensation Through Thorough Investigation
In big rig accident cases, it’s essential to identify all responsible parties to maximize compensation for the victim. Each liable party may have different insurance policies and coverage limits, which can significantly affect the total recovery. For instance, a trucking company’s commercial insurance policy may provide higher coverage than the driver’s personal insurance. By including all liable entities in a claim, victims stand a better chance of receiving fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Big rig accidents often involve multiple layers of liability, requiring detailed investigation and legal strategies to hold each party accountable. By working with a big rig accident lawyer, victims can navigate the legal process effectively and focus on rebuilding their lives.