Truck Accidents and Trucking Company Negligence
Truckers aren’t always entirely to blame for truck accidents in Washington, D.C. In some cases, the employing trucking company can be the cause of a serious collision. Companies have a responsibility to ensure truckers are properly trained, equipped and supervised. When this responsibility is neglected due to negligence or an unsafe attitude toward safety, the result can be tragic.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents by Companies
Unfortunately, these cases occur all too often in Washington, D.C., leading to injuries or death for passengers in other vehicles as well as truckers themselves. Common sources of company negligence include failing to maintain trucks in accordance with industry standards, insufficient driver training and hiring drivers with inadequate experience. Employing companies may also be liable if they encourage dangerous practices such as speeding or driving while fatigued by not providing enough rest periods or proper incentives for safe driving behavior.
A truck accident due to a negligent employer can lead to severe consequences if you don’t know your legal rights. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine whether or not you may have a valid claim against the company and assist in recovering any damages you are entitled to. Contact an attorney today to discuss your case, and find out how they can help you obtain justice for your injuries.
Required Insurance Coverage for Washington, D.C. Trucking Companies
Washington, D.C. laws hold trucking companies liable for any negligence that causes an accident and specify minimum insurance coverage requirements for all employers operating in the region. The minimum liability limits on a Washington, D.C.-based trucker’s policy are $750,000 per occurrence with a combined single limit of $1.5 million. These limits are much higher than the minimum requirements in other states and may be further increased depending on the type of freight being transported. Drivers must also carry motor vehicle liability insurance that covers their own trucking operations, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and cargo insurance.
By having adequate insurance policies in place, trucking companies can protect themselves from financial responsibility for any truck collisions that occur due to employee negligence. If you were involved in a truck accident, it’s important to understand the insurance coverage of the responsible party so you can pursue compensation for your damages. An experienced attorney can help investigate and determine if an employer is adequately covered and provide legal advice throughout the process.
You should contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible if you have been injured in a commercial truck accident. An attorney can assist you in evaluating your case, determining liability and pursuing compensation for any damages caused by the accident. It is important to act swiftly when filing a claim because time can limit your ability to recover what you are entitled to. Contact an experienced attorney today and get the legal guidance you need to secure justice for yourself or a loved one.
Roeser Law Firm: Truck Accidents
You are welcome to contact the Roeser Law Firm at (202) 660-4070 to arrange a free case review if you were injured in a trucking accident. Please feel free to contact us online if it is more convenient for you. Having a lawyer on your side is essential if you have been involved in a truck accident.
