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Trucking accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. While driver error is a common cause of these wrecks, the role of a trucking company’s negligence is often overlooked. In North Carolina, a trucking company is legally responsible for ensuring that its operations do not pose undue risks to other road users. When it fails to meet this responsibility, the results can be catastrophic.
One of the most significant ways trucking companies can contribute to accidents is through inadequate maintenance of their vehicles. Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. When companies cut corners by skipping inspections, delaying repairs, or using substandard parts, they put everyone on the road at risk. Common issues like brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions can often be traced back to poor maintenance practices.
Trucking companies have a responsibility to comply with federal and state regulations that govern the number of hours a driver can be on the road. These hours-of-service regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of accidents. However, some companies push drivers to exceed these limits, encouraging them to drive for longer periods without adequate rest. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to make mistakes, increasing the risk of serious accidents.
Proper training is essential for truck drivers to operate their vehicles safely, especially in challenging conditions or emergency situations. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers receive adequate training before they hit the road. When companies fail to provide this training or allow unqualified drivers behind the wheel, they put everyone at risk. Poorly trained drivers may struggle with basic maneuvers, such as turning or braking, leading to preventable accidents.
Trucking companies must also conduct thorough background checks before hiring drivers. This includes checking for past driving violations, criminal history, and any issues that could indicate a driver is unfit to operate a commercial vehicle. Companies that neglect this step may hire drivers with a history of reckless driving or substance abuse, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Another way trucking companies may contribute to accidents is through the improper loading of cargo. Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, making the truck unstable and difficult to control. This can lead to rollovers, jackknifing, or cargo spills, all of which can cause serious accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that cargo is loaded safely and according to regulations.
Given theses complexities, trucking cases can be particularly complicated. As explained above, there may be more than one party liable for an accident (a truck driver, its employer, and/or another company). Both federal and state law regulate the use of commercial trucks in North Carolina, and it is important to understand these laws. For example, some regulations include the condition of trucks, their cargo, driver qualifications, hours allowed on the road, and inspections. It is also imperative to download the electronic data from a truck, and this information can be lost if it is not gathered immediately. Working with an experienced attorney to navigate these issues is crucial.
The negligence of trucking companies plays a significant role in many accidents on North Carolina’s roads. From properly maintaining vehicles to ensuring adequate training, these companies have a legal obligation to operate safely, and when they fail, the consequences can be dire. If you’ve been involved in an accident involving a commercial truck, it’s important to understand your rights and the potential role of company negligence. Ward and Smith is here to help you navigate the legal complexities and seek the compensation you deserve. Call us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
