Trucking Trailer Accidents: Who Is Liable?

In the course of a haul, the semi-driver truck is in charge of ensuring that the cab (sometimes referred to as the tractor) and the trailer are both operated safely. The driver controls the 18-wheeler primarily from the cab. What transpires then if the trucking trailer is at fault for the accident?

If you have been hurt or a loved one has passed away in an accident with a semi-trailer truck, it is crucial to contact legal counsel as quickly as possible. If you need assistance navigating the complexities of an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit, including figuring out who is legally liable, contact Palmdale Lancaster truck accident lawyers.

Identifying Responsibility in a Trailer Accident

In any truck accident investigation, it's critical to assess the state of the cab, the trailer, and the cargo the vehicle was transporting. It's vital to consider how the driver's negligence affected the collision even though he doesn't control the trailer the same way he does the cab.

As with any claim involving a tractor-trailer accident, several parties could be at fault, including:

Truck Driver

Due to the truck driver's mistakes, there is a greater chance of an accident if the trailer drives separately from the truck. As a result of a driver losing control of the trailer, some of the most frequent collisions include:

• Accidents involving the jackknife: When the trailer swings out of the back of the wagon and folds to one side or the other.
  
  
• Wide turn accidents: Turning semi-trucks require additional space. If the truck's driver fails to create sufficient space between it and surrounding cars.
  
  
• Rollover collisions: The weight distribution in the trailer may alter if the truck driver turns too quickly or travels too fast.
  
  

The Trucking Company

Some truckers operate independently, owning both the cab and the trailer they use to transport cargo. However, in other situations, the trailer is owned by the delivery service. When a trucking firm owns a trailer, that company makes sure the trailer is fit for carrying freight.

The Shipping Company

Even though the truck driver is in charge of routine cargo inspections, the business that loaded the truck also has a duty to ensure that all goods are correctly loaded and secured onto or inside the trailer.

Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer

Wear and tear, and mistakes made during the design, production, or distribution processes can all result in defects in the trailer and its individual pieces.