Complexities of Truck Accident Cases
March 16, 2016
Sarasota Truck Accident Case
In Florida, hundreds of people die and thousands more suffer serious injuries in commercial truck accident cases each year. Truck accident victims are frequently entitled to financial compensation, but collecting this compensation can often be a challenge. The complexities of a truck accident case make it all the more important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney in Sarasota to take your case.
Determining Who is to Blame for Truck Accident Injuries
One of the most challenging aspects of truck accident cases is determining who was at fault in the collision. Your first instinct may be the truck driver – and you would often be correct – however, there are numerous other parties that can be responsible as well. Since, like most people, truck drivers may not have the money available to cover all of your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, it is critically important to identify these additional sources of compensation.
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Driver error (such as overcorrecting a slide and causing the truck to jackknife)
- Drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs
- Inadequate driver training or experience
- Overloaded cargo
- Shifting cargo
- Defective truck parts
- Poorly maintained trucks or trucks in need of repair
- Dangerous road conditions
Depending on the specific cause (or causes) one or more of the following parties may be financially responsible for the losses sustained by victims of the accident:
The Truck Driver
As mentioned, truck drivers are often to blame. Driving too many hours, failing to maintain control of their vehicles, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can all contribute to dangerous Sarasota truck accident cases.
The Trucking Company
Whether under the theory of “vicarious liability” or due to the trucking company’s own negligence in hiring unlicensed drivers or overloading its trucks, trucking companies can often be held liable for truck accidents as well.
Vehicle and Part Manufacturers
When a defective part – such as faulty brakes – leads to an accident, the truck and part manufacturer can be held liable for the victims’ losses. Similarly, if a defective airbag or other issue with your vehicle contributed to your injuries, this too can give rise to a claim for compensation.
Negligent Maintenance and Repair Shops
If a faulty transmission job, tire retreading, or other repair is a contributing factor, it is possible that the shop that performed the work can also be sued for the accident.
Leasing arrangements, owner-operator arrangements, and other aspects unique to the trucking industry can add still more complexity into truck accident collisions. In some cases – such as when poor road design causes the accident – you may even have a claim against the government. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a truck accident, you should speak with an experienced attorney who can help make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Jodat Law Group About Your Sarasota Truck Accident
The attorneys at Jodat Law Group provide aggressive, experienced representation for victims of Bradenton and Sarasota truck accidents. To find out if you may have a claim for compensation, schedule a free consultation at one of our convenient office locations today or call (877) JodatLaw.