Kentucky’s highways are vital arteries for commerce, with thousands of commercial trucks passing through the state daily. However, when accidents involving these massive vehicles occur, the consequences can be devastating.
While it’s natural to focus on the truck driver’s role, the responsibility can also extend beyond the person behind the wheel. If the driver is acting within the scope of their employment, the court may also hold the trucking company responsible for the accident.
When might a trucking company be liable?
Even if the truck driver was at fault, the company might face liability for:
- Negligent hiring and training: Companies must conduct thorough background checks and provide comprehensive training. They may be at fault if they hired the driver knowing they are not familiar with Kentucky’s traffic laws or if they failed to train them well.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: The law requires trucking companies to keep their vehicles in good condition. The court may consider a company responsible for any accident that happens due to an issue that regular inspections should have caught.
- Unrealistic schedules: Companies that push drivers to meet tight deadlines can create unsafe conditions. Even if a driver complies with federal limits on driving hours, the company may still be liable for creating unreasonable schedules.
- Improper loading: Companies may be at fault for accidents caused by overloaded trucks or freight they did not secure properly, which is particularly dangerous on Kentucky’s diverse roads.
- Violation of state regulations: Kentucky sets special laws for trucking companies, including required vehicle inspections and truck size and weight limits. If companies break these rules, it can increase their liability.
It’s important to remember that truck accident cases are often complex, and many factors can contribute to an accident. If more than one party might be responsible, seeking professional legal guidance may be necessary.
Hold all responsible parties accountable
The impact of a truck accident extends far beyond the initial collision. Don’t let legal complexities add to your burden. Reach out to an attorney who can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.