The truck driver and trucking company are the two parties that usually hold liability for truck accident for things like exceeding hours of service or aggressive driving. However, they are by no means the only two that may be to blame The following takes a look at parties other than the trucker or trucking company that may be liable for a semi accident.
Another Driver
Sometimes, another’s driver’s negligence is enough to cause an accident involving a large truck and other vehicles, too. Another driver may be liable for damages if s/he is breaking the law and causes the semi-truck accident.
Breaking the law could encompass many things, here are just a few.
- Drinking while driving
- Makes an illegal lane change
- Speeds
The Manufacturer of the Truck or Trucking Part
If a manufacturer of a truck or trucking part makes a design or manufacturing error—leading to a defective and dangerous part—then the manufacturer may be to blame for the accident. For example, there are hundreds of defective tires released for sale every year. If a tire on a truck is defective, causing a blowout and an accident, then the manufacturer of that tire may be held responsible under product liability laws.
A Shipper/Cargo Loader
Another party that could be held liable for an accident is a cargo’s shipper or loader. If the load is unsafe or is loaded unsafely or unsecured, then the cargo may be the cause of the truck accident. If this is the case, the party who handled the dangerous cargo may be held liable for any damages and injuries from the truck crash.
Determining Liability
Often, knowing who’s liable for an accident isn’t always clear. What’s more, often more than one party is to blame. For example, cargo may have shifted, but it may have been because another driver swerved in front of the truck, causing him or her to slam on the brakes. If this is the case, multiple parties may share fault per the Revised Code of Washington 4.22.070.
Whatever the cause of your accident, our attorneys can help get to the bottom of it. What’s more, we can help you file a claim against the liable party for your full damages amount, and reach a settlement that provide you with the compensation you need.
To learn more about the parties other than the trucker or truck driver who may be liable for an 18-wheeler accident, as well as how an attorney can help you, reach out to us today. The attorneys at Max Meyers Law PLLC can be reached at 425-399-7000.
