Houston’s busy highways are frequently traveled by 18-wheelers, which is crucial to transporting goods and fueling the Texas economy. However, these massive vehicles also pose significant risks, mainly when accidents occur. While driver error often garners the most attention in trucking accidents, the role of trucking company negligence is equally essential and can have devastating consequences for victims.
Understanding how trucking companies may contribute to accidents can help injured parties and their families seek justice and hold the proper parties accountable. Here, our Harris County personal injury attorneys at Hollingsworth Law Firm explain.
Common Forms of Trucking Company Negligence
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring the safety of their vehicles, drivers, and the general public. Unfortunately, some prioritize profits over safety, cutting corners that can lead to accidents.
Below are some common ways trucking companies may act negligently:
- Negligent Hiring Practices
Trucking companies must thoroughly vet drivers before hiring them. This includes verifying valid commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs), reviewing driving records, and ensuring drivers meet legal and safety standards. Employing underqualified or untrained drivers can result in accidents caused by inexperience or poor judgment.
- Inadequate Training
Drivers should receive comprehensive training to operate 18-wheelers safely, especially in challenging conditions like heavy traffic, inclement weather, or steep terrain. Failing to provide proper training can leave drivers ill-prepared to handle emergencies or avoid hazards.
- Failure to Maintain Vehicles
Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe operation of large trucks. Issues such as worn brakes, defective tires, or malfunctioning lights can make a truck dangerous. Trucking companies that neglect routine inspections and repairs put everyone on the road at risk.
- Encouraging Hours-of-Service Violations
Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can be on the road without rest. Some companies push drivers to exceed these limits to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to driver fatigue—a major cause of accidents.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that cargo is loaded correctly and securely. Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo can cause trucks to tip over or become difficult to control, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
The Impact of Trucking Company Negligence on Accident Victims
When trucking companies act negligently, the consequences can be severe. Victims of 18-wheeler accidents often suffer catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, or even wrongful death. The financial toll is equally devastating, with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs.
For families who lose a loved one, the emotional and financial burden is immeasurable. Holding trucking companies accountable is not only about compensation—it’s also about preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Establishing Liability in Trucking Company Negligence Cases
Proving negligence on the part of a trucking company requires a thorough investigation.
Evidence may include:
- Driver Logs: To check for hours-of-service violations.
- Maintenance Records: To identify neglected repairs.
- Employment Records: To uncover negligent hiring or inadequate training.
- Cargo Logs: To verify compliance with load regulations.
Trucking companies often have aggressive legal teams and insurance providers to minimize liability. That’s why victims need experienced attorneys to advocate for their rights and ensure they receive fair compensation.
How Hollingsworth Law Firm Can Help
Our Houston personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling 18-wheeler accident cases at the Hollingsworth Law Firm. We understand the complexities of trucking company negligence and the devastating impact these accidents have on victims and their families. Our team works tirelessly to investigate every detail of your case, identify all responsible parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Call 713-637-4560 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Let us hold negligent trucking companies accountable and help you move forward with your life, starting with a free consultation.Bottom of Form
