Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Truck Accident?

Even the largest passenger vehicles are no match for big trucks during crashes. Tractor trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when they’re fully loaded, and they can be dozens of feet in length. Because of the risks that big trucks pose to drivers and passengers in other vehicles, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) governs the industry via rules and regulations, but those requirements aren’t always followed.

At Caldwell, Wenzel & Asthana, we’ve seen the devastation that truck accidents can cause, especially when negligence is involved. The FMCSA requires that all parties involved in the industry abide by certain rules, and when they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any injuries or accidents that occur.

3 Potentially Liable Parties in Truck Accident Claims

Our Alabama truck accident lawyers have built many claims for truck accident victims, and we know which parties are often responsible for crashes. They include:

1. Truck drivers—Truck drivers are required to abide by the same laws as other drivers, including driving at or below the speed limit, never driving while impaired, and avoiding distractions. They’re also subject to strict regulations concerning rest and sleep schedules to prevent driver fatigue.
2. Truck companies—Truck companies utilize their trucks to transport goods. The FMCSA has requirements concerning weight limits and loading procedures, but truck companies don’t always abide by them in an effort to maximize profits.
3. Truck owners—Big trucks can rack up tens of thousands of miles or more in a single year. That means they must be regularly serviced on a strict maintenance schedule. To save money, truck owners may fail to make timely repairs, increasing the risk of accidents when trucks are on the road.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck accident, getting a lawyer on your side can help you hold the responsible parties accountable. After a truck accident in Alabama, contact Caldwell, Wenzel & Asthana. We’re ready to help you get the compensation you deserve.