Establishing fault after a car crash is sometimes relatively simple. Many collisions occur because one person does something obviously unsafe and illegal in traffic. Other times, liability can be more difficult to accurately evaluate.
A variety of situations can complicate compensation requests after motor vehicle collisions. A crash involving a semi-truck is likely to feature several complicating factors. The commercial driver is subject to different rules than other motorists, which can be difficult for people to understand. The insurance requirements that apply are different.
There are also unique liability laws in play because the crash involves business operations. Determining not just which vehicle was at fault for the crash but also who is liable for collision expenses can be a complex process when a semi-truck causes a collision.
Who might ultimately be liable for a semi-truck collision?
The commercial driver
Quite a few semi-truck collisions occur because the driver of the 18-wheeler does something inappropriate. They interact with a mobile device instead of keeping their focus on the road. They doze off at the wheel or fail to yield the right of way at an intersection. When drivers do something negligent or break the law, they are typically liable for the harm they cause others. Particularly if the driver is an owner-operator who is a self-employed professional, they may be personally responsible for any losses not covered by commercial insurance.
The transportation company
Many truck drivers are employees. They work for companies that provide transportation services to other businesses. Employers often have vicarious liability in scenarios where people get hurt due to negligence or misconduct on the part of employees. Businesses may also be responsible if insufficient training or improper vehicle maintenance contributed to crash circumstances. Employers may share liability with their workers or may be the main party responsible for the financial aftermath of a semi-truck wreck.
Other businesses
There are multiple reasons why another company might have some liability for a semi-truck crash. Maybe there were defective vehicle components that failed, leading to a driver losing control of the vehicle. Perhaps a client improperly loaded a trailer. There are a variety of scenarios in which another company may be at least partially liable for a semi-truck crash.
Looking into the details of a semi-truck collision with a skilled legal team can help affected individuals determine the best solutions possible, given the scope of their losses and the circumstances surrounding their recent collision. Injured people who hold the right parties accountable can optimize their financial recovery and may feel a sense of vindication after a successful financial claim.