The trucking industry involves multiple parties that may each have a distinct role in contributing to this integral part of the transportation industry. Additionally, specific state and federal regulations may create legal responsibility for an accident when one of these parties violated relevant rules that contributed to the crash.
While having multiple parties potentially liable for an accident may open up more paths for compensation, it can also complicate the claims process because the parties will likely try to blame each other to avoid paying you fair compensation. An experienced San Antonio 18-wheeler wreck attorney can review your case, gather compelling evidence, and identify all at-fault parties. These parties may include the following:
Many truck accidents occur because of truck driver error, such as:
The driver could also be fatigued, distracted, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the truck driver may be the first party you consider for pursuing compensation, they likely don’t have the same resources as some of the other potential options.
Due to federal regulations, trucking companies that hire drivers are responsible for the negligence of these drivers who cause accidents. This principle applies regardless of the employment relationship between the trucking company and the driver, meaning that even if the truck driver is considered an independent contractor, the trucking company is still responsible for the driver’s negligence.
Additionally, trucking companies may be negligent in other ways, such as:
Sometimes, the truck’s owner is a separate individual or entity. The owner may be responsible for maintaining the vehicle and may be held liable if they fail to uphold this responsibility.
Third-party companies may load cargo onto trucks at their pickup points. These companies could be liable for accidents caused by:
Some accidents occur due to a defective part, such as:
If a defect caused the crash, the manufacturers of the defective items could be legally responsible for the accident. Our experienced team of San Antonio auto defect attorneys can help with these types of claims.
In some truck accidents, the company responsible for maintaining the truck may be liable if it failed to conduct proper maintenance or made faulty repairs.
If roadway design or conditions contributed to the accident, the government agency responsible for them could be legally responsible for your truck accident injuries.
The Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC can investigate your case to determine how the accident occurred and identify the factors that contributed to it. This may reveal that multiple parties share fault for your injuries and should be made to fairly compensate you. Contact us today to begin with a free consultation.
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