Truck accidents often result in serious injuries that require expensive medical care. Identifying all potential parties who may be to blame for the accident is key to securing adequate compensation. The trucking company may bear some responsibility for any damages that you have sustained.
If you were injured in a truck accident, we recommend that you speak with a Windsor truck accident lawyer from our firm to help protect your rights. We are prepared to the discuss various ways that a trucking company, in addition to the driver, may be responsible for your injuries in a free consultation.
Hiring Inexperienced or Unqualified Drivers
Commercial trucks weigh several tons and it is important that they only be operated by drivers who can safely drive them. Trucking companies owe a duty to the public to investigate the backgrounds and driving records of applicants.
If a driver has a history of previous traffic violations or a pattern of unsafe driving, the trucking company may be held liable for any accident caused by the driver. Likewise, if the trucking company sends a driver who does not have the proper license and qualifications on the road and the driver causes an accident, the trucking company can potentially be held liable for negligent hiring practices.
Negligent hiring may occur when the trucking company hires or retains a driver who:
- Has a history of drug or alcohol abuse
- Does not have the proper license or qualifications
- Has not received adequate training
- Has a pattern of dangerous driving behaviors
- Has not passed the required medical examination
Failing to Adequately Supervise
Trucking companies are required to follow a variety of federal laws related to testing drivers for drugs and alcohol and taking action when a driver engages in unsafe driving behavior. If the trucking company fails to adequately supervise its drivers, it may be held partially liable for the accident.
Concealing Driver Violations
Some trucking companies may fail to report an unsafe driver or intentionally hide negative information about drivers. They may try to cover up driver violations, especially if the violation led to an accident.
For example, after a truck accident, the trucking company may advise the driver not to submit to a drug or alcohol test. Protecting the driver also means protecting the company in an attempt to avoid liability.
Failing to Properly Inspect or Maintain a Truck
Defective tires, brakes and other vehicle parts contribute to a significant number of truck accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for properly maintaining their vehicles. Additionally, they are required to complete regular inspections before sending these trucks out on the roadways.
If a trucking company fails to inspect a vehicle or properly maintain it and a truck malfunction contributes to an accident, the trucking company could be held liable for the resulting damages.
Disobeying Federal Regulations
Trucking companies are highly regulated. Truck drivers are limited in the number of hours they can drive. Trucks must not exceed certain weight limits. Cargo must be properly loaded. If any of these regulations are violated, the safety of others on the roadway may be jeopardized and the trucking company may be to blame.
Contact a Lawyer for Assistance
The legal team at Greg Monforton & Partners has many years of experience representing injury victims.
Our lawyers are ready to handle all communication with the insurance companies while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
No upfront fees involved. Ph: (866) 320-4770.