At the Carlile Law Firm, LLP, our Marshall personal injury attorneys know that commercial vehicle accidents in Texas involve many vehicles, including delivery trucks, 18-wheelers, buses, tow trucks, and construction vehicles. Due to their size, weight, and frequent operation in high-traffic areas, these vehicles often pose a greater risk of accidents than regular passenger cars.
Crashes involving commercial vehicles are not uncommon and can occur due to various factors, such as driver fatigue, improper maintenance, overloaded cargo, or even distracted driving. Whether it’s a large semi-truck on a highway or a delivery van navigating city streets, the potential for accidents exists and often leads to severe injuries or fatalities.
When the worst happens, our Harrison County commercial vehicle accident and injury attorneys are here to help our clients establish liability and pursue the at-fault party or combination of parties for their complete financial recovery needs. Here, we explain how that works.
Determining Liability in Texas Commercial Vehicle Accidents: Who Can Be Held Accountable?
Determining liability in Texas commercial vehicle accidents can be complex as multiple parties may be held responsible for the crash.
Here’s who can be held accountable:
- The Commercial Vehicle Driver
The driver may be liable if the accident was caused by negligent driving behaviors, such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws. They may bear direct responsibility if the driver violated Texas regulations or federal trucking laws, including crucial hours-of-service rules.
- The Trucking or Delivery Company
The company employing the driver may be liable under the legal doctrine of vicarious liability, which states that the company is responsible for the actions of its employees while on the job. The company could also be liable if it failed to provide proper training, maintain the vehicle, or enforce safety regulations.
- Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers
If a mechanical failure or defect in the vehicle, including brake failure or tire blowouts, contributed to the accident, the vehicle’s manufacturer or its components could be held responsible under product liability laws.
- Cargo Loaders
Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo can cause accidents, such as tipping or losing control. In such cases, the company responsible for loading the cargo may be liable for negligence in securing or balancing the load.
- Third-Party Contractors
Sometimes, third-party contractors who service or maintain commercial vehicles could be liable if a maintenance issue, such as improper brake repairs, leads to an accident.
Determining who is responsible requires thoroughly investigating the accident, including reviewing driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and other evidence. Multiple parties may share liability in many cases, making it critical to work with our experienced commercial vehicle accident attorneys in Texas to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable for your complete financial recovery needs.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys Today
Contact our experienced Harrison County personal injury attorneys today to discuss your case with trusted Marshall, Texas community members during a free consultation.
