If you are hurt in a truck crash, then you may be wondering who will be held accountable for the incident. The interesting thing about truck accidents is that they are more complex than holding just a single party accountable. Oftentimes, others, including the driver’s employer, could be liable for the crash as well.
Truck crashes often happen because of negligence by a driver, the driver’s company, mechanics, parts manufacturers and others. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced legal professional to understand all the parties who you can hold accountable after you’re injured.
Truck companies and drivers are held to high standards
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has trucking regulations that all trucking companies and their drivers must abide by. These companies are technically in contract with the federal government, so they need to adhere to these guidelines at all times. Companies are responsible for inspecting vehicles, hiring safe drivers, training their drivers and supervising their drivers.
Truck accidents can happen for many reasons
Truck accidents can happen for reasons such as failing to keep the truck in good working condition, hiring someone without the right training, driving fatigue, distracted driving and others. While the trucking company may try to state that the driver is the only responsible party, it’s often the case that the trucking company can also be held liable, especially if that driver is an employee.
Ohio gives you two years to make a claim against a truck driver or their company. If you’re hit, it’s important to start looking into your options for making a claim as soon as possible, so all the parties can be identified and served with notice of your intent.
If you want to get the most compensation out of your claim, it’s necessary to be clear on who you can hold accountable, the insurance policies that may be at play and the details of your case. If the driver was at fault, then they, as well as others, may be responsible for covering your medical care, lost wages and other financial losses.