If you are involved in a truck accident, understanding the negligent parties you can hold liable is key to protecting your interests. Various entities may share legal responsibility for a truck accident, and you may recover the damages you suffered from them.
First in line is the truck driver. Their negligence, such as speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, can cause a collision. However, the driver is not always the only at-fault party. Below are some potentially liable parties.
The trucking company
Trucking companies can be liable under the doctrine of vicarious liability, which holds employers accountable for their employees’ actions performed within the scope of their job. Additionally, if the trucking company’s failure to properly vet, train or supervise their drivers or maintain their vehicles played a part in the accident, it may amount to legal negligence.
The loading company
If the accident was caused by improperly loaded cargo that led to imbalance or caused the truck to lose control, the company responsible for loading can be held liable. Cargo must be properly loaded and secured due to the risk posed to other motorists.
Vehicle manufacturers and maintenance providers
Liability could extend to the manufacturer of the truck or its parts if mechanical failure or a defective component led to the accident. Similarly, third-party maintenance providers responsible for the truck’s service and maintenance may also be held liable if their negligence led to the accident.
Government entities
Certain government entities may share liability for your truck accident if poor signage or inadequate road maintenance contributed to the crash.
Leaving some negligent parties out of your truck accident claim could limit your ability to recover the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Seeking legal guidance can help identify the parties you can hold accountable and represent your interests in the claims process.