Victims of truck accidents must be aware of liability issues that may complicate legal proceedings – who is responsible for the accident?
Tractor-trailer accidents in Maryland are far more devastating that most accidents due to the large size disparity between the vehicles involved, often resulting in significant property damage and severe injuries or death to the driver of the smaller car. For victims of truck accidents, it’s essential to be aware of liability issues that may complicate legal proceedings – namely, is the trucker or the trucking company liable for the accident? While it’s true that liability typically falls on the driver, some conditions shift some, if not all, of the blame to the trucking company. Due to the complexities of these accidents, it can be difficult to receive compensation following a truck accident.
Truck Driver
Driver error is one of the top causes of trucking accidents. Although most drivers take the hazards of their role seriously, others are negligent. Truck driver negligence comes in many forms. If a truck driver engages in dangerous behaviors, they will likely be found liable if it leads to an accident. Some risky behaviors include:
- Driving while under the influence of drugs
- Texting while driving
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
- Distracted driving
- Disregarding traffic laws and signs
- Falling asleep at the wheel or driving while fatigued
- Reckless or aggressive driving
Trucking Companies
Many drivers are hired by trucking companies to transport cargo. The driver’s employment status can significantly impact your truck accident claim. If the driver operated within the scope of their job when the crash occurred, the employer might be liable for injuries and damages.
Employers are legally responsible when an employee injures someone else. Trucking companies know this, so it is common for drivers to be misclassified as independent contractors to avoid liability for accidents. An investigation into company records may also reveal other types of negligence that contributed to the truck accident, such as:
- Improper hiring practices
- Lack of testing for alcohol, drugs, and disqualifying medical conditions
- Failure to train drivers
- Errors in maintaining and repairing trucks
- Pushing drivers to violate the federal hours of service regulations
- Failure to terminate a driver who commits a major or serious offense
Determining Fault
Proving liability after a truck accident is a complex task. Only the most experienced truck accident lawyers know how to get the evidence necessary to establish fault accurately. More than one party is often found to be at least partially responsible for a collision. And as an added complication, many companies erase or restrict access to evidence to protect themselves from liability. If you were hurt in a commercial truck accident, you need an experienced legal representative on your side. At Snyder Law Group, we do what it takes to get justice for our clients. We will devote the time, effort, and legal expertise needed to ensure your case has the best chance for a successful outcome.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.