Truck accidents are among the most devastating crashes on New Jersey highways. Because of the enormous size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions with passenger vehicles often result in severe injuries, property damage, and fatalities. While truck drivers are sometimes blamed for these accidents, the trucking companies that employ them may also bear responsibility. Understanding how trucking companies can be held liable is crucial for victims seeking justice and compensation.
Employer Liability Under Respondeat Superior
One of the most common legal theories for holding trucking companies accountable is respondeat superior, which makes employers liable for the actions of their employees. If a truck driver causes an accident while performing job-related duties, the trucking company can be held legally responsible.
For example, if a truck driver causes a crash while delivering goods on schedule, the company may be liable for the resulting injuries and damages—even if the company was not directly negligent.
Negligent Hiring and Training
Trucking companies have a duty to hire qualified drivers and provide adequate training. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for negligent hiring or training. Examples include:
- Hiring drivers with poor driving records or histories of DUI.
- Failing to verify commercial driver’s license (CDL) credentials.
- Not providing sufficient safety training.
If a company knowingly employs an unqualified or dangerous driver, it may be directly liable for resulting accidents.
Negligent Supervision and Retention
Even after hiring, trucking companies must properly supervise their drivers. This includes monitoring for compliance with federal and state regulations, conducting regular performance reviews, and ensuring drivers do not violate safety standards.
If a company learns that a driver is unsafe but continues to employ them, it may be liable for negligent retention. For example, if a driver repeatedly violates hours-of-service rules but the company looks the other way, the company may share responsibility for any accident caused by driver fatigue.
Violations of Federal and State Regulations
Trucking companies must comply with strict rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and New Jersey law. These regulations cover driver hours, vehicle maintenance, weight limits, and drug and alcohol testing.
When trucking companies cut corners by pressuring drivers to exceed hours-of-service limits, failing to maintain vehicles, or ignoring inspection requirements, they may be held liable for regulatory violations. Such failures can significantly strengthen a victim’s case in court.
Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Commercial trucks require frequent inspections and repairs. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions are common causes of accidents when maintenance is neglected. If an investigation reveals that a company skipped scheduled maintenance or used defective parts, it may be directly liable for the crash.
Pressure to Meet Deadlines
Some trucking companies push drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, encouraging speeding, fatigue, or violation of rest requirements. When corporate policies prioritize deadlines over safety, companies may face liability for accidents caused by driver exhaustion or reckless behavior.
Multiple Liable Parties
Truck accident cases are often complex because liability may extend beyond the trucking company to include:
- Cargo loaders who failed to secure shipments.
- Manufacturers of defective truck parts.
- Third-party maintenance providers.
Identifying all responsible parties is essential for maximizing recovery.
Conclusion
In New Jersey, trucking companies can be held liable for accidents in numerous ways, including vicarious liability for their drivers, negligent hiring and supervision, regulatory violations, and unsafe corporate practices. Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Because trucking companies and their insurers often fight aggressively to minimize claims, working with an experienced New Jersey truck accident attorney is critical. A lawyer can investigate the accident, uncover evidence of corporate negligence, and hold all responsible parties accountable.