Whenever you drive on a highway, you’re bound to be near large commercial semi-trucks carrying heavy loads. Truck drivers require the skills necessary to drive these large trucks because they are more difficult to handle than regular vehicles. They are big, heavy, and capable of causing severe injuries and even death following a collision. If you are ever injured in a truck accident, you are entitled to receive compensation for your injuries, but you might ask yourself- Who is liable? Who should you sue?
Truck Companies
Unlike a regular vehicle, semi-trucks are typically owned by a company that employs or contracts the driver. The trucking company should have insurance on the truck. They also have a duty to maintain the vehicle and verify that a driver has the proper licenses and certification to drive such a large vehicle. Therefore, you will likely be able to file a claim against the trucking company for the following reasons:
- Poor Maintenance: Owning a commercial truck that will be on highways around cars on a regular basis means that the company needs to routinely maintain the truck. This includes making sure everything works, repairing any issues, and keeping the truck in good condition.
- Negligent Hiring: Owners must do background checks on their employees and make sure they have the credentials to operate a semi-truck. Drivers with poor driving records, history of drug or alcohol abuse, and/or outdated licensing should not be driving on the roads in semi-trucks.
Truck Drivers
Truck drivers also have a lot of responsibilities of their own. Obviously, they need to have proper licensing and training to drive a semi-truck. Additionally, they need to be in the right mental and emotional state, which can sometimes be difficult after driving for long hours at a time. You may be able to successfully sue a truck driver if he or she is responsible for the accident. Some claims against a drive may be:
- Fatigue: All large vehicle drivers must follow the FMCSA rules for driving and rest hours. However, when deliveries need to be made by a certain time, drivers may overlook these rules. Being tired will reduce reaction times and risk drifting off while driving.
- Distracted Driving: People who drive for a living can get comfortable doing so and may think they can take their eyes off the road for a few seconds to check a text or answer a phone call. However, distracted driving has been a leading cause of accidents. Even the most skilled drivers can crash because of a distraction.
- Drugs or Alcohol: Even though truck drivers know it is against the law to drink and drive, they still do it sometimes. The FMCSA also has very specific rules regarding how soon a driver can drive after drinking. If a driver has not followed these rules, there may be a claim.
Contact Us
If you or a family member has been injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, you deserve to receive compensation. Truck accidents can be devastating and the person at fault should be held responsible. Contact our team of skilled attorneys at ReidGoodwin to help at: (804) 415-7800.