Truck accidents are very different from regular car accidents. With their size and weight, trucks require 20 to 40 percent more distance to stop. Higher speeds and heavier weights cause more damage if there is a collision. Therefore, if you were involved in a truck accident, you may be dealing with extensive damage and life-changing injuries.

Determining liability in truck accident cases is crucial to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek fair compensation for the victims. However, establishing fault in truck accidents can be complex, as multiple factors and parties may contribute to the collision. This is why you need an experienced truck accident attorney watching out for your best interests.

In truck accident cases, negligence plays a pivotal role in determining liability. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care, which leads to harm to others. Truck drivers, trucking companies, maintenance providers and other involved parties have a duty to follow safety regulations and maintain their vehicles properly. When this duty is breached and an accident occurs, the negligent party may be held liable for the damages.

Identifying the Potentially Liable Parties

One of the significant challenges in truck accident cases is identifying all the parties who may be responsible for the collision. Apart from the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner of the cargo, maintenance personnel and even vehicle manufacturers could share liability in certain circumstances. A skilled lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all potential defendants and build a comprehensive case.

Investigating Driver Negligence

Truck driver negligence is a common cause of accidents. This could involve violations of hours-of-service regulations, driving under the influence, distracted driving, speeding or reckless driving. A lawyer with experience in truck accident cases will delve into the driver’s conduct leading up to the accident to determine if negligence played a role.

Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

Trucking companies have a responsibility to hire qualified drivers, conduct regular vehicle maintenance and comply with federal regulations. However, some companies may prioritize profits over safety, leading to practices that increase the risk of accidents. A lawyer will scrutinize the trucking company’s policies, training records and maintenance logs.

Uncovering Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Faulty truck equipment or inadequate maintenance can also be contributing factors in accidents. An attorney will work with experts to examine the vehicle’s black box data, maintenance records and mechanical inspection reports to determine if equipment failure or maintenance issues played a role in the collision.

Proving Negligence through Evidence

A successful truck accident claim relies heavily on evidence. An experienced lawyer will collect and preserve crucial evidence, such as accident scene photos, witness statements, surveillance footage and data from the truck’s electronic control modules. They will use this evidence to construct a compelling case that clearly establishes negligence and liability.

Speak with a Truck Accident Attorney Today

Understanding liability in truck accidents is a complex process that requires legal expertise and a comprehensive investigation. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you or a loved one navigate through the intricacies of your case and determine fault by identifying negligent parties, gathering crucial evidence and building a strong claim. To schedule your free consultation, contact The Law Offices of Ron Sholes today.