Motor vehicle accidents vary in severity from fender benders with no injuries to catastrophic accidents which severely injure people. One type of vehicle that often causes the most severe accidents is tractor-trailer trucks. Since these trucks are so much larger than most other vehicles on the roads, accidents involving these trucks can be significant, causing severe injuries to potentially all involved.
In addition to potentially having to heal from the injuries caused in the truck accident, the victims of these accidents also may suffer significant financial hardships as well. Medical bills can add up quickly and they may lose income as well from the inability to work.
Who can be liable for a truck accident
Victims of truck accidents may be able to obtain compensation for their damages. However, when trucks are involved, determining who is liable can be a little more challenging than a normal car accident. If the truck driver is an independent contractor, the truck driver may be the only liable party. If the truck driver is an employee of the trucking company, the trucking company may be held liable as well. If a mechanical or parts failure contributed to the cause of the accident, the manufacturer of the part may be liable. If it was a load distribution issue, then whoever loaded the truck may be liable as well.
Unfortunately, there are many tractor trailer accidents in California and many people suffer injuries as a result of these accidents. The victims may be entitled to compensation, but first they need to determine who is responsible for causing the accident. These can be complicated matters and experienced attorneys may be able to guide one through the process.