If you were hurt in a large truck crash, you’re probably wondering how to go about picking up the pieces in the aftermath. Between the associated medical bills and lost wages, after all, even moderate injuries are enough to threaten most people’s financial security.

Thankfully, you should be entitled to compensation for your damages. As long as you weren’t wholly to blame, you likely have grounds for claim. Before you can take action, though, you’re going to have to determine who was to blame and, consequently, who is ultimately liable.

Truck Crash

Let’s take a look at the parties that are most often responsible for large truck crashes:

1. The Trucker

If the trucker was responsible for the collision, they’ll likely be liable, assuming they operate independently. As long as you incurred more than $10,000 in applicable damages or otherwise meet the state’s serious injury threshold, you can bypass Florida’s no-fault system and file a third-party claim against the trucker in such a scenario.

2. The Motor Carrier

Generally speaking, employers are liable for any damages their employees cause while on the job. That means if the at-fault trucker was working for a motor carrier and was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, you will likely file a claim against the company, rather than the individual.

3. A Manufacturer

Big rigs must be able to withstand considerable wear and tear. Unlike standard passenger vehicles, tractor-trailers travel hundreds of miles a day for years on end.

To ensure their safe operation, manufacturers must take into account the demands of trucking when producing essential parts for 18-wheelers. Should they fail to do so, they can be deemed liable for any collisions that are attributed to mechanical defects.

4. The Cargo Loading Contractor

When cargo is unsecured or off-balance, it can cause the truck to roll-over en route. Should this happen, the third party that loaded the vehicle will probably be found responsible. Depending on the circumstances, the trucker—or their employer—could also be partially at fault for failing to inspect the cargo over the course of their journey.

5. The Municipality

When designing roadways, government agencies have an obligation to account for tractor-trailers. For example, they must ensure the lanes have enough space for trucks to maneuver safely. They must also keep on-ramps, off-ramps, and turns from curving too sharply.

If the accident in which you were hurt could have been prevented had the roads been designed or maintained better, you may be able to take action against the agency that was responsible for overseeing them.

Call 813-551-3907 to Speak with a Truck Accident Attorney in Tampa

For help building a claim against one of the parties mentioned above, turn to Capaz Law Firm, P.A. Our compassionate team is proud to counsel injured parties and their loved ones so they can recover the funds they deserve. To set up a free case review with a truck accident lawyer in Tampa, complete our Contact Form or call 813-551-3907.