Truck drivers spend a great deal of time training in order to keep their vehicles safely on the road. However, despite all of this training problems still occur. There are many drivers, though, who don’t have much training when it comes to their own liability on the road. Below are three liabilities to watch out for if you are a truck driver.
Accidents & Injuries
One of the most common types of liability faced by truck drivers relates to accidents and injuries. Truck accidents are distressingly common and it is sometimes the driver’s error that is the proximate cause. Questions of liability are incredibly complex, though, and the fault may be spread around the driver, the victim, and even the trucking company. As such, it is always necessary to get the advice of a truck accident legal professional before moving on. Failure to get professional help in such circumstances might lead to an acceptance of fault that is not in the driver’s best interest.
Damage To The Vehicle
If you are driving a vehicle owned by someone else, there is a good chance that you will be found liable for any damage that occurs to the vehicle. Even if you are in an arrangement in which the other party is responsible for maintenance, you may be asked to pay for costs to fix damages. As you know, maintenance on a truck isn’t cheap—and unexpected costs can wreak financial havoc upon a driver. Don’t pay until you have consulted with an attorney who can better answer your questions.
Damage To Freight
In some cases, you may also be found liable for damage to the freight you are hauling. While this liability often falls upon the shoulders of the company who provided or packed the trailer, in some cases it will be the truck driver who is found at fault. If you encounter any situation in which the damage to your freight is argued to be your fault, it’s important that you speak to a professional immediately. Damage to a trailer’s worth of goods can be incredibly expensive and it could bring a driver’s career to its end.
Drivers might be found liable for injuries to other motorists as well as damage to vehicles and the freight they haul. If you find yourself on the wrong side of a lawsuit, it’s important that you contact an attorney. Knowing when you are liable is the first step towards determining what to do next.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
