Who’s at Fault?
Those who have been involved in an accident, especially one involving a truck, truly know how dangerous our roads can be. Despite our valiant attempts to drive safely and lawfully, there will always be careless and reckless drivers who put us all at risk of property damage, injury and even death.
After an accident occurs, one of the biggest questions is “Who’s at Fault?”
Truck Driver
Truck drivers have a multitude of various rules that they must follow in order to be in compliance and legally operate their vehicles and deliver their cargo. Among other things, they must insure that their truck and all its parts are in order, that their cargo is safely and securely fastened, and that they have not exceeded the maximum driving hours. If the driver fails to follow all of the rules and regulations, he may be at fault.
Truck Company
Truck Broker
Shipper
In addition to the dangers inherent in the size and weight of the trucks used in commercial transportation and shipping, a number of characteristics inherent in the business can contribute to traffic accidents. These include:
- inadequate training as to driving technique
- safety concerns
- aggressive driving
- driver fatigue (See law on hours of operation)
- sleep apnea
- drunk drivers
- impaired drivers
- systems of compensation that encourage faster vehicle speeds and more hours of consecutive vehicle operation than would normally be advisable.
- unrealistic schedules and expectations of trucking companies that encourage drivers to hurry, despite safety risks involved.