Truck Company Negligence
Inadequate Driver Training
Inadequate driver training is a major form of truck company negligence that contributes to accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained to operate large commercial vehicles safely. Unfortunately, some companies cut corners and send unqualified drivers onto the road.
Proper training involves more than just teaching drivers how to handle a truck. It includes understanding federal safety regulations, defensive driving techniques, and proper cargo handling. When drivers lack this knowledge, the risk of serious accidents increases.
If a trucking company’s failure to provide adequate training caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Holding companies accountable for their negligence helps improve safety standards for everyone.
Failure to Maintain Vehicles
Trucking companies are required to maintain their fleets to ensure they are safe to operate. Failure to conduct regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance can result in dangerous mechanical failures. Common issues include brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions.
Federal regulations mandate that trucking companies keep detailed maintenance records. However, some companies neglect this responsibility to save time and money. These shortcuts put lives at risk and can lead to devastating accidents.
Victims of accidents caused by poorly maintained trucks can hold the trucking company accountable. Evidence such as maintenance logs and inspection reports can play a crucial role in establishing liability.
Overloading and Improper Cargo Loading
Overloading or improperly loading cargo is a frequent issue linked to trucking company negligence. Excessive weight can strain a truck’s braking system, while improperly balanced loads can cause rollovers or jackknife accidents. In some cases, unsecured cargo can spill onto the roadway, creating additional hazards.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict guidelines for cargo weight and securement. Trucking companies that fail to comply with these regulations put everyone on the road at risk. Improperly loaded trucks are particularly dangerous on highways and during sharp turns.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by overloading or improper cargo loading, legal action can help you secure compensation. Trucking companies must be held accountable to prevent future incidents.
Pressuring Drivers to Break Laws
Trucking companies sometimes pressure drivers to violate federal and state laws to meet tight delivery schedules. This can include exceeding hours of service limits, speeding, or skipping mandatory inspections. Such practices increase the likelihood of accidents and demonstrate clear negligence on the part of the company.
Federal regulations are in place to prevent these unsafe practices, including strict limits on driving hours and required rest breaks. However, some companies prioritize profits over safety, putting both their drivers and other road users in danger.
Victims of accidents caused by driver pressure can seek justice by holding the trucking company accountable. Evidence of communication, such as emails or logs, can reveal the company’s role in encouraging unsafe practices.
Negligent Hiring Practices
Trucking companies have a responsibility to thoroughly vet their drivers before hiring them. Negligent hiring practices, such as failing to perform background checks or ignoring past safety violations, can lead to accidents. Employing unqualified or unsafe drivers endangers everyone on the road.
Background checks should include reviewing a driver’s commercial driving record, checking for past DUI convictions, and verifying proper licensing. Companies that skip these steps are liable if their hiring practices contribute to a crash.
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a negligently hired driver, contact the St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Kevin Etzkorn Law. Our experienced attorneys can help you hold negligent companies accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Additional Information
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