Rollover crashes commonly involve large vehicles. Many people recognize that SUVs and other large passenger vehicles are more likely to roll over than shorter vehicles. Semi-trucks are also at increased risk of rollover collisions.
In traffic, the incident could involve multiple other vehicles and may shut down a road for hours. The weight and size of a semi-truck make it capable of causing devastating damage to smaller vehicles. Determining who is liable is a necessary aspect of seeking compensation after a semi-truck rollover incident.
Crashes, including rollover crashes, can occur for many different reasons. Who might be liable for the damages caused in a rollover incident?
The semi-truck driver
Frequently, rollover incidents are the result of drivers doing something unsafe. Particularly if the commercial driver is a self-employed owner-operator, they may be personally liable or may need to provide insurance coverage after a rollover crash.
The trucking company
Commercial transportation companies, like other employers, typically have vicarious liability for negligence on the part of employees. Especially in scenarios where insufficient worker training or improper vehicle maintenance led to the incident, transportation companies may be liable for rollover collisions.
Third parties
Clients could cause rollover incidents by improperly loading a semi-truck’s trailer or withholding information about liquid contents. Companies responsible for vehicle maintenance and component manufacturing could also be liable if improper repairs or defective components contribute to a rollover incident.
Those involved in a commercial crash where a semi-truck rolls over in traffic may be able to file an insurance claim or a civil lawsuit. Determining who is at fault is the first step toward economic justice after a major crash.