Learn about the possible parties that could be held liable for a big rig truck accident
Due to the size and weight of big rig trucks, accidents involving these vehicles have the potential to cause serious injuries. If you have been hurt in a big rig truck accident, call The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker right away. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, we may be able to help you secure compensation from one of the following parties:
Truck Drivers: Truck drivers log thousands of hours behind the wheel every year. With so many hours and miles driven, it’s no surprise that they occasionally make mistakes that result in accidents. To make matters worse, sometimes truckers feel so much pressure to get their load delivered on time that they end up violating the hours of service and driving while sick or tired, which can increase the risk of an accident. While it is possible to hold a trucker personally liable for damages related to an accident they have caused, in most cases compensation will actually come from the trucker’s employer’s insurance.
Trucking Companies: Trucking companies are liable for accidents caused by their employees. This is true whether the employee caused the accident through a driving error or through improper loading or securing of cargo.
Brokers and Shippers: Brokers and shippers may be held liable for trucking accidents in two main circumstances. First of all, if a broker arranges for transportation to a final destination and sets the final price, they may actually meet the definition of a motor carrier. A motor carrier is liable for the actions of negligent subcontractors, i.e. truck drivers and trucking companies. Secondly, a broker or shipper may be held liable for negligent hiring if they choose to work with a trucking company with a history of safety violations and an employee of that company ends up causing an accident.
Truck Manufacturers: When defective truck parts cause accidents, the truck manufacturer can be held liable. Their liability would include damages suffered by the truck driver and the trucking company as well as damages suffered by other parties involved in the accident.
Other Motorists: Of course, trucking accidents can also be caused by other motorists who are driving erratically or dangerously. In this case, the trucker would be among the parties seeking damages.
Need Help?
To learn more about your rights and options for pursuing compensation after a trucking accident, please call us at 800-333-0000 for a free consultation.
