Determining Liability
While car accident cases usually only have two parties, truck accidents may involve numerous parties who may be responsible for or share in the accountability for the loss. This can include the driver’s employer, the truck driver, the tractor/trailer owner or lessee, the shipper, the loader, the broker, the mechanic, the truck manufacturer, or even a government entity. Because of this, it’s important to hire an experienced truck accident attorney who can immediately and thoroughly investigate an accident to determine liability quickly and accurately to get you the best settlement that you deserve.
After examining the evidence, the truck accident attorney can determine the cause of the accident. From there, the case is more than likely to move on to a stage of litigation. Our legal team can file motions that are necessary in order to request additional information as well. They also can challenge any motions that would be harmful to your lawsuit and keep track of what is being done in regard to your case.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Drug/alcohol use
- Distracted driving
- Sudden braking
- Driver fatigue
- Improper loading
- Mechanical defects
- Negligent maintenance
Tractor-Trailer Accidents FAQs
Who is liable for my injuries?
Ultimately, a truck accident attorney can determine this after a close investigation of your accident. The parties can vary, and many parties may play into the negligence of the situation at hand.
Is there a limit for how much a driver can drive during a shift?
As of 2013, there is a limit to the amount of time that drivers can be on the road in a day and a week. They also must have rest periods and a 30-minute break after their first 8 hours. Any drivers who drive over this amount of time are operating their trucks outside of the rules and laws of operation, and they need to be held accountable for these types of dangerous violations.
Who regulates commercial trucks in the USA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration was established in 2000 in order to focus on the safety aspects of commercial trucking. They have set forth regulations on qualifications of drivers, equipment inspection repair and maintenance, maintaining proper records and other factors that may result in accidents if not followed through with daily.