Now that Labor Day weekend is behind us, it may seem that traffic levels will return to normal as most people return to their everyday lives. However, interstate commerce doesn’t stop because the holiday is over, and semi-trucks will continue to rumble across Louisiana highways. Because of this, the dangers stemming from semis also still real.
For those who experience the misfortune of being injured in a semi-truck accident, there are many questions to be answered. Who may be held accountable is an important one, and this post will provide some answers about potential defendants.
Trucking companies – Chances are that the offending driver works for a trucking company; essentially an employer that pays the driver a wage for his or her services. Liability of a trucking company could hinge on the relationship with the driver, including the amount of control the company has, whether it provided the truck and the delivery schedule.
Insurance companies – It is not uncommon for a trucking company’s insurer to be named as a defendant in a personal injury action. Depending on how issues surrounding payment for medical expenses and rehabilitation costs arise, an insurance company could be brought in as a defendant.
Manufacturers – If it is found that a correctable defect was the cause of a crash, a truck’s manufacturer could be named as a defendant. After all, truck manufacturers (just like automakers) have a duty to inform truck owners of potential defects and take reasonable steps to correct such defects.
The preceding is not legal advice. For questions about your individual situation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.