When you get into a truck accident, you may have a number of things on your mind. You may be wondering about who will take care of all the expenses incurred in the accident, such as medical bills, property damages, lost wages, etc. Another concern is filing a claim with the other party’s insurance company and fighting for your compensation.
While the government has given you the right to collect financial compensation after an accident, the journey from being injured to finally receiving the amount can be long and complex. If you were in a trucking accident, you should talk to a New Hampshire injury lawyer immediately.
Potential defendants in an Iowa truck accident case
- The truck driver.
The truck driver is one of the first potentially liable parties that comes to mind in a truck accident. This is because most trucking accidents are caused by truck driver errors, such as distracted driving, drowsy/fatigued driving, driving under the influence, not obeying traffic laws, etc. It is not uncommon to find drivers fall asleep behind the steering wheel as they work for long hours during the night.
- The trucking company.
Another potentially liable party may be the trucking company, as they are responsible for hiring the drivers. The trucking company must conduct proper background checks and ensure the people they hire are skilled for the job. They are also required to provide proper training as well as resting time. Fatigued drivers are more likely to get into accidents. The trucking company may also be responsible in case of vehicle malfunction since they are required to conduct maintenance checks regularly.
- The truck manufacturer.
While the trucking company can be held liable for the truck’s mechanical failures, the truck manufacturer can also be held responsible. If, during the investigation, it is found that the truck’s internal parts or system failed in some way, which directly led to the accident, then they will be liable for the victim’s damages.
- A safety inspector.
Safety inspectors are supposed to supervise when trucks are being loaded with cargo to ensure that the vehicle is never overloaded. Overloaded trucks can lead to fatal accidents.
If a safety inspector had checked the truck before it went on the road and failed to warn about the overloading, they may be held liable for your losses. This is because they failed to do their job correctly. This goes for independent contractors as well as private inspectors working for the trucking company.
Hire a personal injury attorney today.