Semi-truck collisions are notorious for causing severe injuries and premature death. The people in the smaller vehicle and those who lost a loved one could face hundreds of thousands of dollars or more in lifetime losses.
Overwhelming medical expenses, substantial lost wages and significant property damage expenses can combine to make a semi-truck collision not just injurious but also financially devastating. The people affected by semi- truck collisions are often unsure of whether the driver operating the truck or possibly their employer is liable for their losses.
Who generally pays for the financial aftermath of a commercial truck crash?
Both parties could be liable
Truck drivers may have a degree of personal responsibility for a crash, especially if they did something illegal or negligent while driving. In cases where truck operators own their own commercial vehicles or work as contractors instead of employees, they may be the primary party liable for collision expenses.
Frequently, transportation professionals are employees. If the collision occurs while the worker is on the clock, their employer may have vicarious liability for the damages they cause on the job. The legal doctrine of respondeat superior allows those affected by the negligence or misconduct of an employee to hold their employer responsible.
Frequently, commercial liability policies apply after semi-truck collisions. The policy may offer $750,000 or more in coverage, leading to intense claims negotiations.
People may need help documenting their losses, determining who is liable and pursuing compensation. Having support throughout the compensation claims process after a semi truck crash can help people minimize the lasting financial harm that an accident may cause.