Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

The answers to these questions are in addition to those found in our Personal Injury FAQ.

Is Commercial Trucking Regulated By Special Safety Rules?

Yes. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations apply to all commercial trucks engaged in interstate traffic. These regulations contain specific rules relating to trucking safety. For example, these rules limit the number of hours a truck driver may stay on duty before resting. The regulations also impose specific requirements for truck maintenance, driver training and record keeping. A thorough understanding of these rules is critical to properly evaluate an Ohio truck accident injury claim.

Can I Recover Even If I Was Partially At Fault For Causing The Accident?

Even victims who are partially at fault may be entitled to recover a portion of their damages. Under Ohio’s law of comparative fault, if more than one person causes an accident, the fault is shared by the parties. Schedule your free consultation with our experienced Ohio truck accident lawyer today!

What Are Some Of The Common Causes Of Truck Crashes?

Truck accidents may be caused by a variety of factors: truck driver error, negligence by the driver of the passenger vehicle, truck driver fatigue, poor truck maintenance, brake failure, improper turning and lane changes, overloaded trucks, or imbalanced or unsecured loads.

Who May Be Held Responsible For A Truck Crash?

The truck driver may be personally liable for negligent operation of the truck. The truck driver’s employer may also be held liable for the neglect of the driver. Depending upon the circumstances, the owners of the tractor-trailer cab, the trailer and the freight may all share liability, as well as the truck’s manufacturer or a third-party maintenance company.

Is There A Time Limit For Making A Claim?

The time limit for bringing a lawsuit is called the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations varies from state to state. Generally, plaintiffs in an Ohio truck accident must file a lawsuit within two years of the date of the accident for a personal injury claim or within two years from the date of death in a fatal truck accident. You should consult an attorney to learn what time limits may apply in your situation.

Are Trucks Required To Have Insurance?

Yes. Trucks governed by the federal regulations must carry at least $750,000 in liability insurance for bodily injury or death.