When a crash involves a semi-truck, the process of figuring out who is at fault can look different from a standard car accident. In Minnesota, liability decisions are based on specific evidence and rules that apply to both regular drivers and commercial operators. Our Minnesota construction truck accident lawyer knows that this includes not just long-haul trucks, but also construction trucks that move heavy materials around work zones. With over 40 years of law experience, we know that these larger vehicles can cause serious damage, and in many cases, more than one party may be legally responsible for what happened.
Minnesota’s Comparative Fault Rule
Minnesota follows a comparative fault system. This means that more than one person or company can be found at fault for a crash. If we are less than 51% at fault, we may still be able to recover damages. However, our total recovery will be reduced by our share of the blame. For example, if someone is 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, they would only receive $80,000. If someone is found to be 51% or more at fault, they typically cannot collect compensation from the other party.
This rule applies whether a crash involves two passenger vehicles or a car and a commercial truck like a semi or a construction vehicle.
Evidence That Helps Determine Fault
To determine fault in a truck accident, we start by collecting as much evidence as possible. Some of the most helpful information includes:
- Crash reports. These are written by law enforcement.
- Photographs. Photographs of the scene, including vehicle damage, road markings, and traffic signals.
- Surveillance footage. This is from traffic or nearby cameras.
- Eyewitness statements. This is from people who saw the crash happen.
- Electronic logging device (ELD) data. This is from the truck, which can show speed, braking, and hours on the road.
- Maintenance And Inspection Records. This is for the truck involved.
- Driver Logs. These show whether the trucker followed rest break rules.
If a construction truck is involved, we may also look at work zone permits, job logs, or safety records kept by the employer or site manager. That helps us find out if the truck was operating where it was supposed to and whether it was being used in a safe and legal way.
What Causes Affect Fault
The cause of the crash plays a major role in deciding fault. Some common reasons we see in semi-truck and construction truck accidents include:
- Running a red light or ignoring a stop sign
- Speeding, especially in work zones or residential areas
- Driving while tired, distracted, or under the influence
- Mechanical issues like brake failure or tire blowouts
- Poor training or supervision from the truck company
- Unsafe backing up or blind spot errors, especially on tight roads or near work zones
Each of these causes points toward specific types of negligence. Sometimes it's the driver. Other times it’s the trucking company, a maintenance crew, or even a contractor overseeing a construction site.
Why A Full Investigation Matters
When semi-trucks or construction trucks are involved, fault often isn’t obvious right away. These cases may involve multiple companies, third-party contractors, or government agencies. That’s why we gather records quickly and dig into every detail. The sooner we can secure key evidence, the stronger the case will be.
At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we’ve helped clients across Minnesota after serious truck accidents involving semis, dump trucks, cement trucks, and other commercial vehicles. If you’ve been in a crash and have questions about who was at fault, we’re ready to help you get answers and move forward with a free consultation. Call us today.
