Collisions involving passenger vehicles and commercial trucks can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities, particularly for those in the smaller vehicle. These incidents often lead to significant insurance claims, especially when the commercial vehicle is at fault.
Commercial vehicles typically carry higher amounts of liability coverage than personal vehicles due to the potential for causing substantial damage to smaller vehicles, pedestrians, and property.
Even with substantial insurance coverage, an insurance claim alone may not fully compensate a family affected by a crash, especially if multiple people were involved in the vehicle at the time of the accident. When can the responsibility for a commercial crash be attributed to the trucking company rather than the individual driver?
When the Company Fails to Maintain Its Fleet
Maintaining a commercial truck fleet requires specialized skills and equipment. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safe operation of commercial vehicles. Companies that own fleets must invest consistently in maintenance to safeguard their drivers and the public.
Unfortunately, statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reveal that approximately 10% of all commercial truck crashes involving vehicle faults are due to improper maintenance. Poorly maintained trucks can contribute to accidents that drivers may not be able to prevent.
When Company Culture Encourages Driver Errors
Commercial drivers are subject to stricter rules than typical drivers. They must adhere to specific regulations governing driving hours and conduct. For instance, while there is no federal law against most people texting while driving, there is a federal prohibition on texting for anyone operating a commercial vehicle.
Trucking companies that impose policies requiring drivers to respond to company communications while driving or to exceed Hours of Service limits are contributing to negligence that affects safety, not just the driver alone.
When They Hire Unsafe Drivers
Despite careful screening, some companies hire commercial drivers with questionable backgrounds or safety records. A shortage of qualified transportation professionals has sometimes led companies to employ individuals with less-than-ideal driving histories or criminal records.
Holding a trucking company accountable for a crash can provide broader avenues for compensation, helping to mitigate the impact of an accident on individuals and families.
Truck accidents involve complex legal issues and multiple parties. If you have been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek advice from an experienced attorney who can guide you through your rights and options. With the right legal support, you can navigate the complexities of truck accident cases and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact Glass Robson LLC today for assistance with your case!