Who Can Be Held Liable in a Mississippi Truck Accident?
At The Stubbs Law Firm, we understand how devastating a truck wreck can be. With the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. When you’re facing the aftermath of a truck accident in Mississippi, determining who is responsible for the crash is crucial to securing the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. We represent victims of truck wrecks throughout Mississippi and are committed to helping you identify the parties liable for your injuries.
Parties That Can Be Held Liable in a Mississippi Truck Accident
When a truck accident occurs, several parties could potentially be at fault. The complex nature of trucking operations means responsibility may be spread across multiple individuals or entities. Below, we discuss the common parties that may be held liable in a Mississippi truck accident:
1. The Truck Driver
The most obvious party to hold accountable in a truck wreck is the driver of the truck. If the driver was negligent, reckless, or violated traffic laws, they may be held liable for the accident. Some of the most common driver-related causes of truck accidents include:
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Distracted driving, such as texting while driving
Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
Fatigue due to violating hours-of-service regulations
Failing to properly check blind spots or make safe lane changes
When truck drivers ignore safety regulations or make poor decisions behind the wheel, we hold them accountable for the harm they cause.
2. The Trucking Company
In many cases, the trucking company itself can also be held liable. Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, ensuring proper vehicle maintenance, and enforcing safety protocols. If a trucking company cuts corners to save time or money, it could be responsible for a crash. Common reasons a trucking company might be liable include:
Failing to properly screen or train drivers
Pressuring drivers to exceed legal driving hours
Failing to maintain trucks and trailers
Overloading trucks or improperly securing cargo
We investigate the trucking company’s actions to determine whether their negligence played a role in your accident.
3. The Cargo Loader
Improperly loaded cargo can lead to dangerous situations on the road. When cargo is not secured correctly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced or difficult to control. In some cases, the cargo itself may spill onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers. If improper loading or cargo securement contributed to your truck wreck, the company responsible for loading the truck could be held liable.
4. The Truck Manufacturer
Sometimes, truck accidents are caused by defects in the truck itself. Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering system issues may be the result of manufacturing defects. In these cases, the truck manufacturer or the manufacturer of a specific truck part may be liable for the accident. If we suspect a defect was involved, we work with experts to examine the vehicle and hold the manufacturer accountable.
5. Maintenance Providers
Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe for the road. If a maintenance company or mechanic failed to properly inspect or repair a truck, they may be liable for any accidents that occur as a result of that negligence. Common maintenance failures that lead to truck wrecks include:
Failing to replace worn brake pads or tires
Inadequate inspection of engine components
Not addressing known mechanical issues
We thoroughly investigate maintenance records to identify whether the truck was improperly serviced before the crash.
Holding Multiple Parties Accountable
Truck accidents are often more complex than standard car accidents because multiple parties may share liability. At The Stubbs Law Firm, we are skilled at investigating truck wrecks and uncovering all responsible parties. By holding everyone accountable, we maximize the potential compensation available to our clients. Whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer, or another party, we make sure that each liable entity pays its fair share for the damages caused.
How The Stubbs Law Firm Can Help You
Navigating the legal aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with severe injuries. At The Stubbs Law Firm, we take on the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. We thoroughly investigate your case, work with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck wreck in Mississippi, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced truck wreck lawyers are here to guide you through the process and ensure that you are not left to bear the financial burden alone.
We Are Your Legal Solutions Team!
Call The Stubbs Law Firm for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you need to move forward after a truck accident.
