When a truck accident happens, who is liable to pay for the damages? The driver of the truck or the owner-operator of the truck? What is the time limit to file a lawsuit?
Are truck drivers responsible for damages? Read on to find out.
Owner-operator vs employee
One of the most important elements in defending a carrier against claims is the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor. While both types of drivers are liable for the same amount of damages when involved in a crash, the owner-operator has a much higher liability level than an employee. This means that an accident victim may need to fight to get all of the compensation they are entitled to.
In some states, an employer may be able to avoid having to carry proper insurance by misclassifying a driver. The result can be a lawsuit if the employer is found to have avoided insurance.
Having a clear working relationship with your driver is crucial. If you are not sure whether he or she is an employee or an independent contractor, you should consult with a qualified labor attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you determine the correct employment status of your truck driver.
Employers often try to blur the lines between employees and independent contractors. They attempt to classify their driver as an independent contractor so that they can defer their liability and receive tax savings.
Other drivers can cause truck accidents
If you are a driver, it is a good idea to know the most common causes of truck accidents. These include speeding, inattention, and negligent driving. Truck drivers and passengers can be hurt or killed in an accident.
Road conditions can also lead to an accident. Slippery roads, potholes, and ice can be dangerous for drivers. They can cause trucks to lose control, roll over, or skid.
Driver fatigue is a major problem. Many drivers take their job for granted and operate their vehicles with little care. Poor driving habits and improper training can lead to truck accidents.
Inexperienced and infrequent drivers are another common reason for accidents. Even a small mistake can result in a catastrophic accident.
Trucks can be especially dangerous when they are out on the highway. They are larger and heavier than other vehicles, making them more difficult to avoid. Large commercial vehicles tend to make mistakes and fail to adjust to changing weather and road conditions.
Recovering damages from the trucking company
If you have been in an accident with a trucking company or its driver, you may be entitled to compensation. It may help you pay for medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses. However, you will need to know your rights before you can start collecting.
An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options. They can also work to maximize your compensation.
If you were injured in a truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, you will need to prove that the trucking company or its driver was responsible for your injury. This can be a daunting task.
An attorney can help you determine what type of damages you can collect and how much it will cost. Most attorneys offer free consultations, so you can get a feel for how much it would cost to recover damages from the trucking company.
In most cases, you will be able to file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company. The insurance adjuster will try to reach a settlement outside of court.
Time limits for filing a lawsuit
If you’re considering filing a lawsuit against a truck driver who caused your injuries, you need to understand the time limits in your state. A delay or failure to file a lawsuit before the limit expires can result in the denial or delayed resolution of your case.
Depending on the type of injury you suffered, the time limit for a lawsuit may vary. Medical malpractice claims usually have a shorter deadline than defamation tort cases. It’s always a good idea to consult with an attorney if you’re unsure of the deadline.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date the accident occurred. However, there are exceptions for people who were legally disabled and have a mental impairment.
The Louisiana Civil Code SS 3492 states that a personal injury lawsuit must be filed within one year after the accident. Similarly, the state of Florida requires a lawsuit to be filed within four years of the accident.