Because semi trucks weigh 20 or 30 times as much as ordinary vehicles, collisions with them often leave motorists and passengers with catastrophic injuries. In fact, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck accidents caused nearly 77,000 injuries in 2020 alone.
Diagnosing, treating and living with accident-related injuries can be tremendously expensive. Fortunately, you may be able to seek financial compensation from at least three different sources to help you pay your mounting medical bills.
1. The truck driver
All drivers, including professional truckers, have a legal duty to drive reasonably. If a trucker violates this duty and causes a collision that injures you, you may be able to seek a settlement from the trucker’s insurer. You may also be able to sue the trucker directly for your damages.
2. The trucking company
Nowadays, there are few independent truckers on the road, as most work for trucking companies. If the trucking company does something to make the truck or driver unsafe, it may have legal liability. If not, you may still have a cause of action against the trucking company based on the law of agency.
3. Independent parties
Truckers and trucking companies buy parts from third-party vendors. They may also rely on independent mechanics to keep their trucks in good working order. When exploring your options after a truck accident, it is important to investigate whether a third party may have played a role in the accident.
While truckers, trucking companies and independent parties often share some blame for truck accidents, others also may be responsible for your injuries. Ultimately, to receive the financial compensation you deserve, you may have to go after a number of individuals or entities.
