An accident involving big rigs is usually very tragic because these vehicles are very large and heavy. As such, it is essential to establish who is at fault and held legally responsible when accidents occur because their effects may lead to changes in the lives of individuals as well as losses in property.
Niko Paris Law Firm has skilled big rig accident attorneys who are well-informed about the cases and are ready to assist you through the whole process.
What Makes Big Rig Accidents Different?
Big rig accidents are not your typical car accidents, but rather a system of liability and federal codes. It is worth stating that these trucks move commercial stocks and products often; thus FSMCA regulates their activities. Adherence to stringent legal regulations including hours of service (HOS) rules, and the vehicle maintenance and cargo securement rules are inevitable.
This can lead to catastrophic accidents in a worst-case scenario and the victims’ burden includes hospital bills, lost wages, and emotional pain and suffering. It also clouds liability as many actors may be at fault including drivers of the vehicles, the trucking companies, and makers of the vehicles.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Big Rig Accident?
The Truck Driver
Normally the truck drivers are the initial people who attract blame in a big rig accident. Some of the reasons include; fatigue, distraction, and impairment of the driver. Noncompliance with the FMCSA’s HOS guidelines meant to reduce fatigue-related crashes can create liability. Also, negligence during maneuvers, racing, or wrong decisions while driving in unforeseeable weather conditions makes drivers bear full responsibility for the accident.
The Trucking Company
Employers may be legally actionable for negligent acts that their employees commit whereby a trucking company is legally actionable under what is called vicarious liability. In addition, the blame could also attributed to companies that have not implemented adequate training, a standard routine check on the vehicles, or adherence to safety laws.
The Vehicle Manufacturer
Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or defective coupling systems can contribute to big rig accidents. In such cases, manufacturers or maintenance providers may be held accountable if faulty equipment is to blame.
Third Parties
Sometimes the cause of the accident does not lie on the part of the driver but due to other factors such as poor road conditions or other negligent road users. A thorough examination by the best big rig accident attorney can also help in identifying all the culprits involved.
Why Seek Professional Legal Help?
When facing the legal consequences of a big rig accident, it is almost impossible to approach the situation on your own. Finding proof may sometimes involve collecting documentation, analyzing records of trucking operations, as well as vehicle maintenance records, and employing the help of an accident reconstructionist. This is where big rig accident lawyers come in, to ensure that victims are given what they need and deserve.
Wrapping It Up!
Being aware of how liability works in big rig accidents is important to seek justice in addition to seeking compensation. At Niko Paris Law Firm, we work hard and dedicate our time to professionally represent the clients who are involved in such complicated cases successfully. Call our dedicated big rig accident attorneys now to help you file your case.