Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?
Road accidents involving a truck can be significantly more devastating than those involving passenger vehicles and can cause severe injuries. There are various parties who could be held liable. Depending on the specific cause of the accident, it could be one or more of a few parties.When the Truck Driver Is Liable
In many instances, the truck driver is the liable party after a truck accident. If the accident occurred as a result of driver negligence or recklessness such as speeding, distracted driving or drunk driving, the trucker may be held liable. Truck drivers are also responsible for ensuring that their cargo is properly stacked and bound. If improper maintenance was taken when cargo was loaded on the truck, the driver can be held at least partially responsible for an accident. While truck drivers often work long, arduous hours to get their cargo from one destination to another, they are required to take breaks. However, if they fail to do that and become fatigued and cause an accident, they might be responsible for any damages suffered by those injured as a result. An Allentown personal injury attorney can help you to assess who should be held liable for your injuries.When the Trucking Company Is Liable
For some motor vehicle accidents involving a truck, the trucking company may be liable. Trucking companies are responsible for hiring and training drivers. If a driver was inadequately trained to handle a commercial truck, it can mean disaster on the road. Some trucking companies may simply employ drivers without providing adequate training as a means to cut corners. They may also force properly trained drivers to work overly long hours to the point where driver fatigue can occur, as can an accident.
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