Can Multiple Parties Be at Fault in a Truck Accident?

In many cases, determining liability in a truck collision is far more complicated than identifying a single negligent driver. Our truck accident lawyers in Conway understand that trucking accidents often involve several parties whose actions contributed to the crash. At Kinon Law Firm, we investigate every aspect of an accident to identify all wrongdoers and pursue the compensation our clients deserve.

Multiple Parties Can Share Responsibility for a Truck Accident

Located in the heart of Horry County, Conway serves residents throughout one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing regions. Residents of the city share U.S. Highway 501, Veterans Highway, and S.C. Highway 90 with commercial truckers. These roads see thousands of daily drivers, making the likelihood of a crash high.

Unlike many passenger vehicle collisions, truck accidents frequently involve multiple businesses and individuals working together in the transportation industry. Depending on the facts of the case, more than one party may be legally responsible for causing an accident. Potentially liable parties may include:

• The truck driver for careless driving, distracted driving, speeding, fatigue, or violating traffic laws

• The trucking company for negligent hiring, poor training, inadequate supervision, or encouraging violations of federal safety regulations

• A maintenance company that failed to properly inspect or repair the truck

• A cargo loading company that improperly secured or overloaded freight

• A manufacturer that produced defective truck parts or equipment

• A trucking company’s safety manager who ignored driver violations, failed to enforce safety policies, or allowed unsafe practices to continue

• A dispatch company that pressured a driver to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines or violate hours-of-service regulations

• A government entity or roadway contractor responsible for dangerous road conditions

• Another motorist whose negligent actions contributed to the collision

Our lawyers thoroughly review the evidence to determine every source of liability. Identifying all responsible parties can increase the financial resources available to compensate injured victims.

How Liability Is Determined in South Carolina Truck Accident Cases

Outlined in South Carolina Code Section 15-38-15, an injured person can recover damages if they are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. When a court awards compensation to the victim, the amount is reduced by their personal percentage of liability. The leftover compensation is then divided between all guilty parties, and they each have to pay the amount that is assigned based on their personal percentage of fault.

Truck accident investigations are often far more detailed than investigations involving passenger vehicles. Several insurance companies and defense attorneys may become involved shortly after the collision. Each party may attempt to shift responsibility to someone else to reduce liability.

Truck Accident Lawyers in Conway With Years of Experience Helping South Carolina Residents

If you were injured in a commercial truck accident, our Conway truck accident attorneys are ready to help you understand your legal options and protect your rights. Contact Kinon Law Firm today online or by calling 843-488-9191. We offer free consultations to new clients to discuss your legal options. Kinon Law Firm proudly represents clients in Conway and throughout Horry County and the surrounding areas.