Suing a Trucking Company After a Truck Accident

Truck accidents often result it significant injuries, due to the sheer mass of a big rig or commercial semi-truck. The trucking company may be held liable for the negligent actions of the driver. According to respondeat superior, Latin for “let the master answer,” you may sue the trucking company after a truck accident if they engaged in practices that contributed to the accident. It is crucial to hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced with truck liability laws in order to file a successful lawsuit.

Trucking Regulations and Truck Driver Safety

There are many trucking regulations that a trucking company and truck driver must follow. These regulations were developed to keep the truck driver safe and to minimize the chance of a trucking accident. If the truck driver or company does not adhere to these regulations, and an accident occurs, they can be found liable for the trucking accident and damages may be awarded to the injured party.

Accidents Due to Truck Driver Fatigue

One problem in the trucking industry is that truck drivers are sometimes given schedules that do not allow them adequate time to rest or are given a deadline that does not conform to roadway speed limits. If the driver is not given a realistic deadline, he or she may travel over the speed limit, increasing the likelihood of a trucking accident.

Maximum driving time is another important regulation. Truck drivers must keep a daily log of how many hours they have driven. If a truck driver is fatigued and becomes involved in a truck accident, these logs can be used to determine the truck company’s liability. It is worth noting that in a recent survey, approximately 20% of truck drivers admitted to falling asleep while driving in the past month.

Compensation Available Through a Truck Accident Lawsuit

Suing the trucking company may allow you to receive compensation for the injuries and medical bills stemming from your truck accident. You may also be awarded damages to cover damage to your home or property, loss of income, as well as pain and suffering. Working with a skilled personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accident liability can help you win your truck accident case.