All vehicles can be dangerous, but trucks are more dangerous, especially when they crash into smaller vehicles. Trucks are larger and heavier than small passenger cars, which means even a minor accident can cause serious damage and injuries.
After a truck collides with your car, it’s natural for you to think that the driver may be to blame. However, sometimes truck accidents can stem from the negligence of trucking companies. Below are a few ways a trucking company can be responsible for your car accident.
Failure to maintain vehicles
One of the most critical responsibilities of a trucking company is to ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained and in safe operating condition. Regular maintenance, including inspections and repairs, is crucial to prevent mechanical failures that can potentially cause an accident.
Failure to properly secure hazardous materials
Trucking companies that transport hazardous materials should properly secure and label the materials to prevent spills or leaks that can cause an accident. Neglecting to secure hazardous materials can result in the materials spilling onto the road, causing other drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
Overloading cargo trucks
Trucking companies are also responsible for ensuring that their vehicles are not overloaded. Overloading a truck can cause it to become unstable, making it difficult for the driver to maintain control. This can lead to the truck tipping over or make it more challenging for the driver to stop or maneuver during an emergency. Overloading can also put undue stress on the vehicle’s suspension and brakes, leading to mechanical failure.
Hiring unqualified drivers
Trucking companies should conduct background checks and ensure they only hire qualified drivers. However, if a trucking company employs incompetent drivers, they might be held responsible for an accident.
Determining legal liability in a trucking accident isn’t always straightforward. For this reason, you may need legal assistance to help you find the true culprit.
