Cargo truck accidents often lead to severe injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. Establishing liability in a cargo truck accident is critical for victims to secure compensation for their losses. However, these cases can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility, including truck drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, and manufacturers.
At Ernst Law Group, our California truck accident lawyers understand the challenges victims face after a cargo truck accident. This comprehensive guide explains how to prove liability, common causes of cargo truck accidents, and the legal options available under California law.
Understanding liability in cargo truck accidents
Determining liability in a cargo truck accident involves identifying which party or parties acted negligently, leading to the accident. Negligence occurs when a party fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. Proving liability requires evidence that establishes:
- The at-fault party owed a duty of care to the victim.
- The at-fault party breached that duty through negligence or wrongdoing.
- The breach directly caused the accident and resulting injuries or damages.
Proving liability in cargo truck accidents
Proving liability in a cargo truck accident requires a thorough investigation and compelling evidence. Key steps include the following.
1. Investigate the accident
A comprehensive investigation is essential to identify the cause of the accident and the responsible parties. Evidence may include:
- Police reports and crash scene photos
- Witness statements
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Truck driver logs and electronic logging device (ELD) data
- Maintenance and inspection records
2. Examine cargo handling
Cargo-related issues are often a primary factor in these accidents. Investigators will assess whether the cargo was:
- Properly loaded and secured
- Within weight limits
- Transported in compliance with safety regulations
3. Analyze driver behavior
Evidence of driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or hours-of-service violations, can establish liability. Logs, GPS data, and cell phone records can provide insight into the driver’s actions leading up to the accident.
4. Evaluate vehicle maintenance
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles to ensure safety. Maintenance logs and inspection records can reveal whether mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributed to the accident.
5. Identify regulatory violations
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern cargo handling, weight limits, and driver hours. Violations of these rules can be used as evidence of negligence.
Parties that may share liability in cargo truck accidents
Liability in cargo truck accidents often extends beyond the truck driver. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be held accountable, including the following:
- Truck driver – Drivers may be liable if their negligence, such as speeding or fatigue, directly caused the accident.
- Trucking company – Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained, their vehicles are maintained, and their cargo is safely loaded. Failure in any of these areas can result in liability.
- Cargo loaders – Third-party companies that load cargo onto trucks can be held accountable if improper loading or securing of cargo caused the accident.
- Manufacturers – If defective parts, such as brakes or tires, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
- Government entities – In cases involving hazardous road conditions, the government agency responsible for road maintenance may share liability.
| Related article: What can happen if semi-trucks are overloaded |
How Ernst Law Group can help
We have extensive experience handling complex cargo truck accident cases at Ernst Law Group. Our attorneys will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties.
- Collect critical evidence, including maintenance records, driver logs, and expert testimony.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
We are committed to helping victims recover physically, emotionally, and financially after a cargo truck accident.
Contact Ernst Law Group for a free consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in a cargo truck accident, contact Ernst Law Group today for a free consultation. Our experienced team will guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.