Who Can Be Held Responsible for Truck Accidents?

Semi trucks weigh up to ten times more than passenger vehicles, and they can be 60 feet in length or longer. When big trucks are involved in accidents with cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs, they often cause significant damage and serious injuries because of the massive size and weight difference.
Truck accident victims often face expensive medical bills and long periods away from work. However, pursuing compensation isn’t always a cut-and-dry process after truck accidents. That’s because multiple parties can be tied to a single truck, and one or more of those parties’ negligence can contribute to a crash.
At Cofman Townsley, our St. Louis truck accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims get the money they deserve after truck accidents, and that means investigating those crashes to find out who was responsible. Four parties whose negligence can contribute to crashes include:

1. Truck drivers—Truck drivers not only must obey traffic laws, but they also must obey strict rest and time off requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
2. Truck companies—Companies that lease or use trucks to conduct business must ensure that they are used safely. That means avoiding improper loading procedures and violating weight limits.
3. Truck owners—Whether they’re owned by companies or individuals, trucks must be well-maintained and on a regular service schedule to remain safe on Missouri’s roadways.
4. Other drivers—Big trucks are difficult to maneuver and slow down. When other drivers are negligent, their actions can cause trucks to be involved in serious crashes.

If you or someone you love was injured in a truck accident, you deserve experienced legal representation. Call us today for a free consultation.