When a truck accident occurs, many people automatically assume that a truck’s driver is to blame. While this can be the case, sometimes, the truck company that a driver works for is the one to blame for any harm caused.
Identifying the responsible party after such accidents is crucial for survivors pursuing compensation. But how can one determine when a truck company, not a truck driver, is responsible?
Violations of industry regulations
Because of the significant size and weight of commercial trucks, the trucking industry is subject to strict regulations aimed at helping to ensure safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented hours of service (HOS) regulations to reduce the risk of driver fatigue in the industry.
Unfortunately, some trucking companies have policies that incentivize their drivers to violate these re. For example, when a truck company establishes unrealistic cargo delivery deadlines, truck drivers may be forced to drive longer than the FMCSA permits.
Regulations within the trucking industry also require truck companies to help ensure their vehicles are well-maintained. Regrettably, many companies avoid routine repairs and maintenance checks to cut costs. Suppose a truck accident happens because a truck company violates these industry regulations; the company, not the driver, is at fault.
Negligent hiring, training and supervision
The fact that some truck companies hire unqualified drivers to cut costs and increase profit is a scary reality. Untrained truck drivers are more likely to cause truck accidents because they may struggle to operate these massive commercial vehicles.
If a truck accident happens because the company failed to properly vet the driver before hiring, the company may be held responsible for negligent hiring. The least a truck company can do is hire qualified and competent drivers who do not have a history of unsafe driving, substance abuse or other red flags that make them a road safety hazard.
Navigating compensation in the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming and confusing. Although truck drivers are frequently held accountable initially, trucking companies can also share substantial responsibility for accidents in some instances. Survivors of truck accidents can benefit from appropriate legal guidance to understand these dynamics when seeking justice and compensation.
