People hurt due to semi-truck crashes may have the right to seek compensation. If the commercial vehicle caused the crash, they may be able to file an insurance claim or possibly even a personal injury lawsuit.
Typically, those seeking financial justice after a preventable collision have to prove that the other party was at fault and therefore liable. There may be multiple parties with a degree of liability for a semi-truck crash. Who might provide financial compensation after a wreck caused by an 18-wheeler?
The driver
In some cases, the truck driver also owns the vehicle. Owner-operators are self-employed or independent contractors. They may have personal liability for the collision.
Typically, their commercial liability insurance helps limit direct losses and ensure adequate compensation for the people harmed in the incident. Federal regulations require at least $750,000 of insurance coverage.
The commercial transportation company
If the driver was not an owner-operator but rather an employee, then their employer might have a degree of liability. Vicarious liability rules generally make businesses financially responsible for the negligence of their workers while they are on the clock.
Additionally, the business practices of a transportation company can contribute to crash risk. Improper vehicle maintenance, inappropriately long shifts and questionable employment practices could all contribute to a semi-truck crash.
There are also several scenarios in which outside businesses might be liable for a semi-truck collision. Determining who is actually liable for a crash can help those involved in a semi-truck collision pursue compensation from the appropriate party. Injured people and grieving families may need help evaluating the situation to take the right steps after a commercial vehicle crash.