Truck accidents can cause extensive property and physical damage to passenger car occupants. Those involved in the crash may want to hold the trucking company responsible.
If third-party negligence contributes to a truck crash, trucking companies may be able to prove fault and avoid financial liability.
Part distributors and truck manufacturers
Manufacturing companies must ensure that the products it produces meet safety regulations. Errors in the manufacturing process or defective parts used on trucks can damage the following systems:
- Hydraulic systems
- Brakes
- Fuel tanks
- Tires
Blowouts or breaks in these essential systems can make it impossible for truck drivers to maintain control of the vehicles through no fault of their own.
Maintenance and service providers
Drivers must keep their trucks in good operating condition. They usually turn to repair shops to perform routine maintenance work. If the shop’s employees fail to complete the job correctly, use faulty parts or neglect to perform the work requested, courts may consider the negligent business practices as a contributing factor in a crash.
Loading companies
Truck drivers rely on other workers to load and secure the items they transport. If the loading company fails to balance or secure the load, sudden weight shifts can contribute to accidents. Additionally, the loading company might be responsible if items fall off a truck and cause a crash or land on adjacent vehicles.
While truck companies are sometimes liable for accidents, third parties can also be responsible for the crash. Knowing where to look for fault can keep trucking companies out of lawsuits.