Though vital to our nation’s economy, many drivers become anxious when driving near semi-trucks due to their immense size. Unfortunately, accidents involving these vehicles can be catastrophic and often fatal. Many times, maintenance issues are to blame for these collisions, as the trucks aren’t properly taken care of. If you’re involved in an accident involving a large truck, understanding who to hold responsible is vital. Keep reading to learn about liability and discover how a Pike County, KY truck accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
What Maintenance Issues Contribute to Truck Crashes?
There are a number of maintenance issues that can lead to collisions.
Unfortunately, one issue that often arises is a tire blowout. When tires are worn down and have poor tread, it can increase the risk that the weight of the vehicle will cause immediate loss of inflation in the tire. As a result, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, which can lead to an accident. Similarly, worn down, punctured, and improperly filled tires can also lead to a blowout.
Similarly, if a truck has broken brakes or they aren’t properly maintained, it can cause significant issues. Failure to replace break lines or pads can make it challenging for the vehicle to stop.
In other instances where the trucks are not properly maintained, such as failure to ensure all fluid levels are met, making sure all lights are working, and that the suspension is taken care of.
Who Can Be Held Liable for These Accidents?
There are a number of people who can be held liable when an accident occurs as a result of poor maintenance.
One entity liable is the driver of the truck. Most transportation companies require that their drivers take the necessary steps to check the vehicle before traveling. If the driver does not complete their checklist or ignores any issues they discover, they can be responsible for damages caused by the problem.
Also, the company responsible for hiring and maintaining the vehicle can also be responsible. If a driver alerts their employer to an issue, but the employer doesn’t take the steps to repair or prevent the problem from causing damage, they can face responsibility.
Finally, third parties can be liable for these incidents. For example, if a mechanic is supposed to fix the truck and fails to remedy the issue before deeming it safe for travel, they can be held liable.
When you’re involved in an accident with a semi-truck, understanding how to proceed is vital to receiving compensation. Unfortunately, these vehicles can cause intense damage, so it’s essential to contact Shane Hall Attorney at Law, as soon as possible. Don’t wait to reach out, as the statute of limitations on personal injury cases is two years. Contact us today to set up your free consultation with a member of our legal team.
