Who is Responsible in a Semi-Truck Accident?
There is possibly no other accident that can occur that has more devastating effects than a semi-truck accident. These big rigs weigh significantly more than a passenger vehicle, so any collision will result in massive property damage, and likely personal injury or even death as well. It is often hard to pinpoint who is at fault when an accident occurs, so hiring a semi-truck accident attorney is almost always necessary. If you have been involved in one of these accidents, you need to hire an attorney from Arentz Law Group P.C. today by calling 1-800-305-6000, or by filling out the contact form on this page. A semi-truck accident attorney in Southern California is ready to speak with you and conduct your free case review.
Who is at Fault?
There are a number of different parties that are responsible for the semi-truck. Even if there are only 2 vehicles involved in the accident, you and the semi-truck, and you are clearly not at fault, it can be difficult to determine exactly who is to blame. Here are the parties that need to be considered:
The Truck Driver – The driver is most often at fault because ultimately he is the one driving the truck. He has the responsibility to drive safely on the public roads, and if he doesn’t, then he can end up causing problems. Drivers must be alert, not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and properly trained.
The Trucking Company – The company that employs the driver has a huge responsibility as well. They must properly screen their drivers to make sure a driver that has a clean driving record is employed. If they hire someone that has a history of negligent driving, they should be held accountable for putting an unsafe driver on the road. Much of the training issues fall on the shoulders of the trucking company as well.
Truck Maintenance Company – Most maintenance is the responsibility of the trucking company, however, there are times when the trucking company has done their due diligence. In these cases the company hired to maintain the vehicle did not complete the maintenance satisfactorily and the truck’s equipment failed because of that.
Truck Manufacturers – In every industry there are manufacturers that try to cut corners and save costs. The trucking industry is no different. By installing faulty parts, or parts that are of a lower quality than necessary, the manufacturer can put others in danger. They should be held responsible if their shoddy workmanship causes a semi-truck accident.
Other Drivers – Sometimes a semi-truck accident happens because the truck driver is trying to avoid the reckless driving of another motorist. The result can often be that an unsuspecting third party has their property damaged or they suffer from injury or loss of life.
As you can see, there are many different variables that go into a semi-truck accident. Each party will try to deny blame and pass it on to another. You need a semi-truck accident attorney to help you sort through the mess and receive the compensation that you deserve.
Contact Arentz Law Regarding Your Semi-Truck Accident
If you have been involved in a semi-truck accident, you need to speak with an attorney from Arentz Law Group right away. The highly trained semi-truck accident attorneys in Southern California can help you get your property repaired, your medical and ongoing expenses covered, and let you get back to living life as soon as possible. Call 1-800-305-6000, or fill out the contact form on this page, to schedule your free consultation.