Negligence of Trucking Companies in Birmingham Truck Accidents

A trucking company may be deemed negligent in causing a Birmingham truck accident if it fails to maintain its fleet in reasonable condition or fails to ensure the qualifications of its drivers as a means of preventing a foreseeable risk to other motorists. It is the responsibility of the trucking company to make sure that the drivers it hires are properly certified and have demonstrated both competence and ability to operate large trucks. These companies are also required to meet the minimum standards for maintaining commercial vehicles set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Failure to adequately meet these standards may give rise to a negligence claim if it results in a Birmingham truck accident.

Driver Qualifications

Large trucks often carry toxic or hazardous materials and haul other loads that can weigh as much as 50,000 pounds. Understandably, strict licensing requirements are in place for the transport of these types of loads. Trucking companies must ensure that their drivers have passed both a knowledge test and a skills test appropriate to the type of commercial vehicles they are hired to operate. Trucking companies are also required to run criminal background checks and driving history reports before employing drivers. Failure to fulfill these responsibilities amounts to negligence. If the company’s negligence contributes to the cause of a Birmingham truck accident that results in injury or death, the trucking company may be wholly or partially responsible for compensating the victims or their families.

Proper Fleet Maintenance

Trucking companies must also adhere to the minimum requirements set forth in the CFR for the proper maintenance of their fleet. This includes ensuring that brakes are in good repair, confirming that tires and wheels show no signs of excessive wear, and maintaining lights, signals, and other equipment in working order. Failure to meet these minimum requirements may give rise to liability for injuries sustained as the result of improper maintenance of the vehicle.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Birmingham truck accident involving an improperly maintained truck or inadequately licensed driver, you should immediately seek the advice of an experienced Birmingham truck accident attorney. Call 1-877-925-5373 today to consult with a Birmingham truck accident lawyer about your case. The initial consultation is free.

Trucking companies will often attempt to settle out of court quickly while victims are still suffering from the trauma of an accident. In all Birmingham truck accident cases, it is essential that measures promptly be taken to preserve evidence, investigate the accident, and allow a physician to examine any injuries. The Walker Law Firm is experienced with the unique issues involved in Birmingham truck accidents and can assist you in receiving full compensation for your injuries. Call the Birmingham truck accident lawyers at The Walker Law Firm now at (877) 925-5373 or fill out our FREE CASE EVALUATION FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if our Birmingham truck accident attorneys agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds. Don't delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a Birmingham truck accident lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires.