The aftermath of a truck accident can be tough to deal with; especially if you were in a passenger vehicle that was hit by a semi-truck and lived to tell about it. Given that the semi-trucks can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds (compared to about 4,000 pounds for a passenger vehicle) trucks are the largest, and most dangerous vehicles on the road. A truck accident can leave passengers with severe and permanent injuries.
With the scope of liability being high in truck accidents, it is also important to know how many potential defendants can be held responsible in a crash aside from the driver. This post will highlight the different entities who can be sued.
Trucking companies – Many truckers work for trucking companies that supply the vehicle and provide the driver a wage for his or her services. Depending on the employment relationship, the degree of control exercised over the driver, and whether the accident occurred when the driver was acting in furtherance of the employment relationship could make the trucking company liable as well.
Insurance companies – The insurer of the trucking company (or the driver’s insurer, for that matter) could be named as a defendant depending on the circumstances surrounding compensation for injuries.
Manufacturers – It could be that a defect within the truck (i.e. the engine, braking systems or steering) that was the likely culprit in the crash. In these instances, the truck manufacturer could be held liable for failing to address the defect.
The preceding is not legal advice. For questions about your individual situation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.