Truck accidents are often far more complex than typical car accidents, and this complexity is often tied to the involvement of trucking companies. In Pennsylvania, trucking companies play a significant role in these accidents, from the management of the trucks to how they maintain drivers and the vehicles. Understanding their role is key for anyone involved in a truck accident claim. Knowing how trucking companies are involved can help victims pursue compensation and hold the right parties accountable.

The Role of Trucking Companies in Hiring and Training Drivers

One of the primary responsibilities of a trucking company is hiring and training its drivers. Trucking companies are legally required to hire drivers who meet specific qualifications. They must ensure drivers are trained on how to operate large commercial vehicles safely and follow all relevant traffic laws. This includes training on the handling of dangerous goods if applicable.

If a truck driver is involved in an accident, the trucking company can be held responsible if it is found that they hired an unqualified or poorly trained driver. This can include a lack of experience or failure to conduct thorough background checks, such as checking for prior driving offenses or history of substance abuse. In some cases, companies that fail to train drivers properly may be liable for negligence in their hiring practices.

Maintaining and Inspecting Trucks

Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that the trucks they own are in good working condition. Federal and state regulations require commercial trucks to undergo regular inspections and maintenance. These inspections can check everything from the brakes to the tires to the engine. When a trucking company neglects these duties, it can lead to mechanical failures that result in accidents.

If an accident is caused by a truck malfunction, such as faulty brakes or worn-out tires, the trucking company could be liable if it failed to properly maintain the vehicle. In these cases, an experienced lawyer will look into the truck’s maintenance history and records to determine if negligence occurred. Regular maintenance is essential for safety, and any lapse in this duty can make the trucking company accountable for damages.

Hours of Service and Driver Fatigue

Trucking companies are also required to monitor their drivers’ hours of service. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations regarding the number of hours a truck driver can work without resting. Truck drivers are limited to driving no more than 11 hours a day after 10 consecutive hours off-duty. This ensures that drivers are well-rested and alert, reducing the risk of accidents caused by fatigue.

If a truck driver exceeds these hours or doesn’t take the proper rest breaks, they are at a higher risk of causing an accident. The trucking company can be held accountable if it knowingly allows drivers to exceed their hours or fails to enforce regulations. In these cases, trucking companies must be thoroughly investigated to determine if they played a role in encouraging drivers to ignore safety rules or deadlines.

Insurance Coverage and Liability

Trucking companies are required to carry higher insurance coverage than other vehicle owners due to the size and potential damage a commercial truck can cause. Insurance policies for trucking companies can be complicated, with different levels of coverage for the truck itself, the cargo, and injuries to others.

If you are involved in a truck accident, the trucking company’s insurance will be an important source of compensation. However, dealing with these insurance companies can be tricky. They may try to reduce payouts by claiming the driver was at fault or by challenging the severity of your injuries. The trucking company’s insurance might also try to place blame on factors outside of their control, such as road conditions or another driver’s actions.

Having an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of trucking insurance. Lawyers will work to ensure that the correct insurance policies are identified and that they are used to cover all your expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Impact of Subcontractors and Owner-Operators

Not all trucking companies directly employ the drivers who are involved in accidents. In some cases, trucking companies hire subcontractors or use owner-operators. Owner-operators are independent contractors who own and operate their own trucks but are hired by larger trucking companies to haul freight. In these cases, determining who is liable for an accident can be more complicated.

Trucking companies may attempt to shift liability to owner-operators or subcontractors, claiming that they are not responsible for accidents involving independent contractors. However, Pennsylvania law does allow for trucking companies to be held liable for the actions of subcontractors if the company had some level of control over the driver or their vehicle. Investigating the relationship between the trucking company and the driver is crucial for determining who is responsible.

The Role of Trucking Companies in Accident Investigation

After a truck accident, trucking companies are often quick to investigate the incident. Unfortunately, their primary concern is usually limiting their financial exposure rather than ensuring justice for victims. Trucking companies will often have teams of investigators who will collect evidence, take photos, and interview witnesses to build a case that minimizes their liability. This is why it’s important for accident victims to have their own legal representation to protect their interests.

An experienced personal injury lawyer will have the resources to conduct an independent investigation. This can include reviewing the truck’s black box (if available), which records crucial data such as speed, braking patterns, and other vehicle performance indicators at the time of the accident. Lawyers will also examine the driver’s logbooks to check if they were in compliance with hours of service rules and review the trucking company’s maintenance records to identify any potential safety violations.

Trucking Companies and Federal Regulations

Trucking companies in Pennsylvania, like those across the United States, are subject to federal regulations set by the FMCSA. These regulations cover everything from driver qualifications and truck maintenance to hours of service and record-keeping. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to penalties and, in some cases, liability for accidents caused by non-compliance.

An experienced truck accident lawyer will have a deep understanding of these regulations and how they apply to your case. They will be able to analyze whether the trucking company or driver violated any federal rules, which can help strengthen your claim.

Conclusion

When a truck accident occurs in Pennsylvania, trucking companies play a significant role in determining who is responsible for the crash. From hiring and training drivers to ensuring vehicles are maintained properly, these companies have a legal obligation to keep the roads safe. If they fail in any of these duties, they may be held accountable for the injuries and damages that result.

At Kingbird Legal, we specialize in truck accident cases and understand the complexities involved. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, our experienced attorneys can help you investigate the trucking company’s role and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward getting the justice you need.