When an accident involving a tractor-trailer happens in Indiana, blaming the truck driver for the collision might be the immediate response. If the truck driver is liable for the impact, they can face a lawsuit. Sometimes, the truck driver’s negligence caused the crash, but that is not always true. When another party is negligent, they could be liable.
Truck crashes and fault
Truck drivers that commit moving violations or engage in reckless behavior could be liable for injuries they inflict because of an accident. Speeding and tailgating are two reckless actions that might cause a crash.
Distracted driving continues to cause deadly accidents annually. A truck driver looking at a touchscreen or recording themselves on social media might not react in time to avoid a collision.
Truck drivers might also cause accidents when they drive under the influence. Even a tired driver might be incapable of operating a truck. Drivers who ignore mandatory break times could be at fault for crashes if their fatigue leads to a crash.
Additional fault
Ultimately, an investigation will attempt to determine the individual liable for any trucking accident. Third parties could face litigation if they were at fault. For example, if a technician did a poor brake repair job, the technician and their employer could be responsible for a collision when the driver knew nothing about the brakes.
The truck driver’s employer could be all or partially at fault for an accident. If the trucking company does not maintain its fleet and allows mechanically compromised trucks on the road, such behavior might be negligent.
It bears mentioning that truck drivers could be the victims of another motorist’s negligent behavior. Intoxicated, distracted and otherwise dangerous drivers could cut a truck off or commit another reckless action that leads to a collision. Anyone hurt by the reckless driver’s behavior could sue for damages.
