Truck accidents happen all the time, and they unfortunately can cause some serious or even catastrophic injuries to the people involved. This is largely due to the inherent nature of these truck: they weigh far more than your average vehicle out on the road, and as a result, they have a far greater impact in an accident than other vehicles.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few common questions relating to truck accidents:
What are some typical causes of truck accidents? All of the reasons you would associate with motor vehicle accidents can play a role in a truck accident. The difference is that these reasons can be amplified. Truckers often work long hours and can be very tired. These long hours can contribute to boredom and, as a result, a tendency to check cellphones while driving. On top of all of this, trucks are more difficult to operate.
If the materials carried by truck were hazardous, could that be cited in a lawsuit? Yes, it could. However, there are limitations to this concept, and ultimately it all depends on the case.
Can the trucking company be held liable for a crash caused by the truck driver? Yes, the company could be held liable. But again, it is on a case by case basis. You would have to establish an employment relationship between the truck driver and the truck company and then prove that the employer was liable for the truck driver’s negligence under the theory of “respondeat superior,” which simply means that a party is responsible for the actions of their agents.
Source: FindLaw, “Truck Accident FAQ,” Accessed Aug. 1, 2017