Trucking company negligence is a leading factor in serious accidents involving large commercial vehicles. When companies cut corners to save time or money, the consequences can be devastating for other drivers on the road. In Roseville, MN, these incidents often involve issues like improper maintenance, overloading, and negligent hiring practices.
Improper Maintenance
Trucks are complex vehicles that require regular inspections and upkeep. Federal regulations mandate routine maintenance checks, but some trucking companies fail to comply. Defective brakes, worn tires, and faulty lights are just a few maintenance issues that can cause serious accidents. A truck with poorly maintained brakes might be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision, especially when carrying heavy loads. Similarly, tire blowouts can lead to the driver losing control, putting everyone nearby at risk. When maintenance issues are ignored, the trucking company can be held responsible for accidents resulting from these failures.
Overloading
Overloading is another common problem that increases the risk of accidents. Federal weight limits exist to ensure trucks remain stable and safe while traveling on the road. However, some companies overload their vehicles to reduce the number of trips required to transport goods. This not only puts undue stress on the truck’s braking and suspension systems but also makes the vehicle harder to maneuver. Overloaded trucks are more prone to tipping over, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops. The excess weight can also increase the severity of an accident, making injuries and property damage worse for all parties involved.
Negligent Hiring Practices
The hiring practices of trucking companies also play a critical role in safety. When companies fail to properly vet drivers, they may put inexperienced or unqualified individuals behind the wheel of a large commercial vehicle. Truck drivers must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and should have a solid driving record. Negligent hiring can include failing to conduct background checks, overlooking a history of driving violations, or not providing adequate training. A poorly trained or reckless driver can cause catastrophic accidents, and the trucking company may share liability for employing someone who wasn’t fit to operate the vehicle safely.
How Johnston | Martineau PLLP Can Help
When accidents involving trucking company negligence occur, victims often face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we’re committed to helping those affected by these incidents. If you’ve been involved in a crash and need an Roseville, MN 18-wheeler accident lawyer, we’re here to provide the guidance you need to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Whether the cause of the accident was improper maintenance, overloading, or negligent hiring, we investigate every detail to determine who is at fault. Trucking companies and their insurers often try to deflect blame, but we focus on holding them accountable for their negligence.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. You shouldn’t have to handle the aftermath alone—let us help you protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.