View of truck in an accident with car, cloudy sky
Truck accidents have the potential to be the most damaging due to the sheer size of the trucks involved. Due to their ability to cause severe harm, trucking companies have a higher duty of care. When they fail to exercise this duty of care, truck accidents can happen. Such failure is a sign of negligence and can be a cause for legal liability.
There are several examples of how trucking companies may become negligent. Let’s discuss three of the most common.
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring each truck is properly maintained. This means they must follow specific maintenance schedules to ensure they’re safe. Trucking companies must abide by maintenance regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
If they don’t follow maintenance regulations, trucks in disrepair may cause accidents due to engine failure, tire damage, broken lights, brake failure and more.
In addition to maintenance, trucking companies must also hire skilled and safe drivers for operating these giant vehicles. Semi trucks and other commercial vehicles don’t operate as traditional cars and trucks do. Drivers must have a valid CDL driver’s license and a clean driving record. They must also undergo a physical and drug and alcohol testing to ensure they’re in good health.
It’s also important that trucking companies hire drivers with experience or those who have attended truck driving classes. If they fail to hire safe drivers who can operate the trucks properly, accidents may occur.
Most semi trucks and commercial vehicles are built for transporting cargo. They also have specific weight requirements. Unfortunately, if cargo isn’t loaded or secured properly, accidents can occur due to falling objects and balance issues.
Truck accident cases are different than typical car accidents. There are many ways a company can be negligent, thus potentially responsible for accidents. Plus, there are many parties involved, and accidents may span several different states. It’s important to reach out to a truck accident attorney to help you navigate your case.
If you’ve suffered injuries due to a trucking accident, we can help. To learn more about negligence and what it means for your case, send us a message.
