When can a trucking company be liable for a crash?

A truck driver is not always the only party to blame for a truck crash. Investigating a truck accident can prove that the trucking company may have acted negligently, contributing to the accident. Accordingly, it should be held responsible.

Here are some examples of when a trucking company may be liable for a collision.

Driver fatigue

Trucking companies need to observe regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. For example, the FMCSA requires a break of at least 30 consecutive minutes after 8 cumulative hours of driving time and a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

Some trucking companies neglect driver fatigue, requiring drivers to work beyond legal working hours and during breaks to maximize profits and meet delivery deadlines.  If a truck driver hits you due to driver fatigue caused by their employer failing to observe FMCSA regulations, you may be able to hold the trucking company responsible.

Poor hiring practices

Some trucking companies have poor hiring practices that can result in aggressive or inexperienced truck drivers sharing the road with you. Some of these practices include rushing through background checks, failing to adequately assess a driver’s skills, not conducting a comprehensive drug test, prioritizing to fill positions more than finding the right drivers and failing to adequately train new hires.

Poor vehicle maintenance

Trucking companies should regularly inspect their trucks to make repairs, ensuring drivers operate well-maintained trucks. A company that does a poor job of maintaining its trucks may be liable for an accident caused by a maintenance issue. Keeping vehicle maintenance records is a requirement for trucking companies. Thus, it can be easier to tell if a company has failed to properly maintain its vehicles.

Due to the size and weight of trucks, a truck accident can be serious. If you have suffered injuries in such an accident, learn more about your case to determine which party(ies) can and should be held liable.