Naples Truck Company Negligence Lawyer
Motor vehicle accidents are more often the result of driver error or negligence. But from a legal standpoint, it is also important to understand the liability of the company that employs that driver as well. In the context of a commercial trucking accident, for example, the truck company is vicariously liable for the negligent acts of its employee drivers.
There are also many trucking accidents where the company, as opposed to the driver, was directly responsible for what happened. That is why if you have been injured in an accident it is important to engage a Naples truck company negligence lawyer. At Cardinal Law, P.A., we can conduct a full investigation into your truck accident and determine to what extent the truck company was at-fault.
Holding Truck Companies Accountable
Running a trucking company is a complicated undertaking. Truck companies are subject to both federal and state regulations when it comes to training and managing their drivers, maintaining their vehicles, and other areas related to safety. When a truck company decides to cut corners and not follow these rules, the results can be catastrophic.
Here are just a few examples of how truck company negligence can cause a serious accident:
- Failure to Maintain and Inspect Vehicles. A commercial truck needs to be inspected at regular intervals. If a vehicle is not up to par, it needs to be removed from service and properly repaired before being allowed back on the road. Far too many truck accidents are the result of a critical system on a truck–such as the brakes–failing at a critical moment.
- Hiring Unqualified Drivers. A truck company needs to do its due diligence when hiring new drivers. A background check is a necessity, not an option. If a company hires a driver who lacks the proper licenses, has a history of bad driving or a criminal record, or cannot pass a medical evaluation, then they should not be allowed behind the wheel. If an unqualified driver causes an accident, the victims can pursue a claim for “negligent hiring” against the truck company.
- Failing to Properly Supervise Drivers. A truck company can also be sued for “negligent supervision” if it does not properly manage their existing drivers as required by law. This includes not pushing drivers to stay on the road when they are fatigued or have exceeded their maximum hours of service under the law. Truck companies are also required to conduct routine random drug and alcohol screenings of their drivers; failure to administer such tests–or act upon a failing result–can also lead to legal liability in the event of an accident.
Contact Cardinal Law Today
While your first instinct following an accident with a commercial truck is to blame the driver, it is important to consider the potential responsibility of the trucking company as well. By working with a Naples trucking company negligence lawyer, you can ensure that all of the bases are covered. So if you need to speak with a lawyer, contact Cardinal Law, P.A., today to schedule a free consultation.
