Commercial trucks are considered extremely dangerous. This reputation is associated with 18-wheeler trucks because of their large size and density. Truck accidents are one of the most dangerous accidents to occur on the road as they can cause catastrophic injuries. These injuries could be life-changing, negatively affecting victims’ lifestyles. If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler truck accident, reach out to one of our qualified and determined Westchester County Truck Accident Attorneys who can help you recover reasonable damages for your injuries.
Who may be held responsible for 18-wheeler truck accidents?
Truck drivers are not the only ones who may be held liable for an 18-wheeler truck accident. Other negligent parties may include:
Truck Drivers
The most common cause of an 18-wheeler truck accident is driver error. If a truck driver is found to any degree at fault for the collision that inflicted serious injury to someone, they will be held responsible. If a truck driver was driving recklessly, drunk driving, speeding, using their cell phone, disregarding traffic signals, was distracted, or started falling asleep because they drove too many long hours, they will be held liable for any damages.
Trucking company
Trucking companies may be held liable for any accidents or injuries that result from their negligence. If they do not give their truck drivers proper training, push them to work longer hours than legally allowed, or fail to regularly maintain the truck to a quality standard, they can be held accountable.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers can be held liable if any defective or faulty parts are the cause of a collision.
Truck Owners
Trucking companies may rent or lease trucks. Rightful owners must inspect and maintain their trucks to a quality standard that is safe for operation. If they fail to do so, they may be found negligent.
Cargo Loaders
Cargo must be loaded properly into the back of an 18-wheeler truck. If it is improperly packed, it can cause it to be overweight or cause an imbalance which could lead to a collision.
Government agency
A government agency may be held liable for any 18-wheeler truck accidents that happen due to hazardous road conditions. If there is any dangerous roadway issue it could contribute to the cause of an accident. This hazardous road condition may cause the truck driver to lose control of their rig and cause a collision where serious injuries can result. In this case, they would be held liable as they are responsible for keeping the roads at a quality standard for safety reasons.
Contractors
If a government agency hires a contractor to remedy a hazardous condition on the road and they fail to do so, they may be held liable for contributing to any truck accidents that happen as a result.
Ultimately, truck drivers are not the ones who can be held liable for damages due to negligence. Numerous other parties could contribute to the cause of a collision. Truck accidents can cause substantial injury or even fatality. If your or someone you care about has been injured in an 18-wheeler truck accident because of someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our skilled team members. We are determined to help you recover fair compensation for your injuries. You can rely on us to help you get the justice you deserve.