Identifying who is responsible for a commercial truck accident that takes place in Connecticut can help you collect fair financial compensation for your losses as an injured victim. Unlike a standard car accident involving just two drivers, multiple parties may share legal responsibility in a truck accident case.
The majority of truck accident cases in Connecticut name the trucking company as the defendant or accused party. A trucking company could absorb direct or vicarious liability for an accident involving one of its trucks or drivers if it or one of its workers is to blame.
Liability may be placed directly on a trucking company for its own negligence, or failure to act with reasonable care. Examples include:
Failing to properly inspect and maintain its fleet of trucks
Vicarious liability is a legal doctrine that holds employers liable for the actions of their employees. This doctrine can make trucking companies in Connecticut responsible for accidents caused by their careless or reckless drivers, even if the trucker is classified as an independent contractor.
A Truck Driver
If an at-fault truck driver is a truck owner/operator and not employed by a trucking company, however, you may have grounds to file a claim directly with the owner. Higher insurance coverage amounts are required for owners of commercial vehicles in Connecticut.
Another Driver
If another motor vehicle driver made a mistake that ultimately caused a truck accident that involved you, that driver can be held responsible. If the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to pay for the damages caused by the truck accident, you may be able to seek supplemental coverage from your own insurance provider or the insurer of another party.
A Cargo Company
The company responsible for loading cargo onto a semi-truck could be held liable for an accident caused by shifting or falling cargo. Cargo loaders are required to follow federal load securement rules, with special considerations for hazardous materials, to help prevent these accidents.
A Truck Part Manufacturer
Some trucking accidents in Connecticut are caused by defective truck parts or equipment, such as bad brakes or a tire blowout. If an investigation discovers a dangerous or defective vehicle part, the manufacturer of the truck or equipment could face a product liability suit. If poor maintenance caused the part failure, on the other hand, a maintenance crew or company could be held liable.
The Government
Rural roads and highways in Connecticut are not always safe for motor vehicle traffic, including large trucks. If a road defect or hazard such as a pothole contributed to your truck accident, the state or local government may be held liable for failing to properly maintain the roadway.
Determining Responsibility for Your Truck Accident in Connecticut
A variety of different parties could share liability for a truck accident in Connecticut. Determining whom to hold responsible for your crash may require assistance from a personal injury law firm.
The Wallingford truck accident attorneys at Loughlin FitzGerald, P.C. can return to the scene of your truck accident, investigate the crash, collect evidence of fault and hire experts to support your claim. Begin your case with a free initial consultation. Contact us today.
