A truck accident could leave you with severe injuries, emotional trauma and financial burdens. Mounting medical bills, lost wages and vehicle repair costs can easily overwhelm you and your family. Financial compensation becomes crucial to cover these expenses and holding the party at fault liable is vital in achieving this goal.
But who exactly is responsible for your truck accident injuries?
Looking at the right people
In many cases, the insurance providers for the truck driver, the trucking company or other involved parties are the ones who will actually handle the claims. However, if you are considering filing a personal injury lawsuit, it is beneficial to know who can be liable.
Depending on the unique facts and circumstances surrounding the truck accident you were involved in, you can file an injury suit against the following individuals and entities:
- Truck driver: If the accident was due to the driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving or driving under the influence, you can file a claim against the driver.
- Trucking company: You can hold the truck company responsible if the accident was a result of the company’s negligence, such as inadequate driver training or allowing drivers to exceed the allowed hours of service.
- Truck or truck parts manufacturer: If the truck accident was due to a mechanical failure that you trace back to a manufacturer’s defect, you could file a claim against the manufacturer of the truck or its parts.
- Cargo loaders: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause accidents and the party responsible for loading the truck could be at fault.
- Government entities: If the accident was a result of poor road conditions or inadequate signage, the local government or road authority where the accident happened can be responsible.
Note that there may be other entities that could be liable, especially in extremely unique cases. Nonetheless, the ones above are the common parties responsible in truck accident cases.
Finding your answer
If you are unsure who is liable in your situation, it is usually beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accidents to help determine all the potentially liable parties and to navigate the complexities of your claim.
