When a large, heavy truck collides with a passenger vehicle, it typically results in severe injuries and complicated legal claims. Unlike typical car accidents, these collisions often involve multiple responsible parties.
This means navigating different insurance policies and legal obligations. If you were injured in a truck accident, identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for recovering just compensation.
The truck driver’s role
Truck drivers may be liable if they were speeding, distracted, fatigued or under the influence. Federal regulations limit driving hours and require rest breaks, but violations are common. If the driver failed to follow safety rules, they could be held personally responsible.
Trucking company liability
Trucking companies can be liable for negligent hiring, poor training or failure to maintain vehicles. If a company pressured a driver to meet unrealistic deadlines or ignored mechanical issues, it may share fault. In Minnesota, employers are often vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions.
Cargo loaders and manufacturers
Improperly loaded cargo leads to rollovers or jackknife accidents. If a third-party loader failed to secure freight correctly, they may be liable. Similarly, if a mechanical defect, such as faulty brakes or steering, contributed to the crash, the manufacturer could be held accountable.
Minnesota’s comparative fault law
Minnesota follows a modified comparative negligence system. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you may still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. Thoroughly investigating all sources of liability helps prevent unfair blame.
It’s crucial to act quickly after the accident. Preserve evidence, follow all medical orders and seek legal support as soon as possible. Trucking companies often begin their accident investigations immediately, and so should you.