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Who has liability in a truck accident?

On Behalf of | Mar 10, 2021 | Truck Accidents

While being involved in an accident is often dangerous, being involved in a truck accident can amplify the potential injuries and damages. Semi-trucks can weigh 80,000 pounds or more compared to an average car weight of 5,000 pounds. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Washington, it’s a good idea to learn about how fault is determined so that you can seek the compensation you deserve.

There are various entities that may be held liable

Unlike car collisions where there are two or more drivers and their personal insurance companies, truck accidents have complications. There are several different entities that may be held responsible for the accident depending on the circumstances surrounding the truck accident. The parties that may be held liable include the truck driver, the trucking company they’re employed by, the company responsible for the cargo and even the manufacturer of the truck itself.

Fault can be placed on multiple entities

Commercial trucking accidents require a lot of evidence gathering to determine where the fault lies. In cases where the driver was traveling too fast for conditions or was driving distracted, the truck driver will be held liable for the accident. In incidents where a defective part caused a mechanical failure, the parts maker or manufacturer can be held liable. In some instances, multiple parties may be held liable for the accident. In this type of case, you will have to file multiple claims with various insurance companies.

There’s no denying the fact that truck accidents can be deadly. Cars are no match for the sheer weight of big rigs when on the roadway, so being involved in a trucking accident can result in serious and even life-threatening injuries. Understanding who can be liable for the accident and why this type of claim takes so long can help you to better prepare yourself for the investigation ahead.

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