Is the Trucking Company Responsible for Your Injuries?

InsightsInvestigations
November 22, 2023

Is the Trucking Company Responsible for Your Injuries?

Trucking accidents can be devastating, leading to catastrophic injuries, fatality and life-altering consequences for those involved. If you've been injured in a trucking accident, it's crucial to understand when the trucking company may be held liable for your injuries. The best way to defend yourself from the variety of complex difficulties that truck accidents present is to hire a skilled lawyer who will work with you to get the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury as a result of a truck accident, contact our team of experienced truck accident lawyers to properly investigate and pursue your truck accident claim.

Trucking companies, like all motor carriers, have a legal obligation to operate with necessary duty of care and ensure the safety of others on the road. Even when the truck driver is negligent, the trucking company may also be held liable. 

How Can the Trucking Company Be Liable? 

Some of the instances in which the trucking company would be held liable include, but are not limited to:

Hiring Practices and Driver Qualifications

One critical aspect of trucking company liability is the hiring and training of drivers. Companies are responsible for thoroughly vetting and hiring qualified drivers with the necessary skills, experience, and adherence to safety regulations. If a trucking company hires a driver with a history of safety violations, inadequate training, or a questionable driving record, they may be held responsible for negligence in their hiring practices.

Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections

Proper maintenance and regular inspections are vital for the safe operation of commercial trucks. Trucking companies are obligated to ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained, meeting all safety standards and regulations. Negligence in vehicle maintenance, such as failing to address mechanical issues promptly, can contribute to accidents. In such cases, the trucking company may be held liable for any resulting injuries.

Hours of Service Violations

Driver fatigue is a significant factor in many trucking accidents. Federal regulations, such as the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, are in place to prevent drivers from operating their vehicles while fatigued. If a trucking company encourages or turns a blind eye to drivers violating these regulations, leading to a fatigued driving accident, they can be held accountable for negligence.

Improper Loading and Cargo Procurement

Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that cargo is loaded securely and that trucks are balanced to prevent accidents. Improper loading or unsecured cargo can lead to catastrophic accidents and serious injuries. If a trucking company neglects proper loading procedures, resulting in an accident, they may be liable for the damages caused.

Negligent Supervision and Training

Trucking companies must provide adequate supervision and training to their drivers. This includes ongoing training to ensure drivers stay updated on safety regulations and best practices. If a lack of supervision or inadequate training contributes to a trucking accident, the company may be held responsible for negligence.

Seek an Experienced and Compassionate Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accident claims can be complicated and difficult for you to face alone. Trucking companies will fight back with powerful legal teams to try and deny you the compensation you are rightly owed. Contact us today to learn more about your truck accident case. We are ready to help.

Being injured in a trucking accident can be a traumatic experience, but understanding when the trucking company is liable for your injuries is crucial for seeking the compensation you rightly deserve. By recognizing factors such as negligence in hiring practices, insufficient maintenance, hours of service violations, improper loading, and negligent supervision, you can build a strong case for holding the trucking company accountable. 

At McEldrew Purtell, our experienced truck accident lawyers know how to fight back. Our team can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of trucking accident liability and securing the compensation you deserve. We take a compassionate approach to your case while aggressively representing you against negligent drivers and companies.

Contact us today to learn more about your truck accident case. We are ready to help.