Trucks play a vital role in the U.S. economy, transporting goods across the state and across the nation.
Unfortunately, these large vehicles also present a risk to others on the road. With their need for longer braking time, large size, and increased number of blind spots, trucks have an elevated risk of becoming involved in a serious collision. In fact, 436 people lost their lives to large truck crashes in 2022 in California, according to the National Safety Council, and thousands more were injured.
If you or someone you love was hurt or killed in a crash, an Escondido truck accident lawyer at Miller & Steele Law Firm can help. We have more than 70 years of combined experience so we’re prepared to tackle the complicated issues that arise in these types of collisions. Give us a call at (760) 439-2210 today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help you.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Escondido Truck Accident?
Under California Civil Code Section 1714, truckers — and everyone else — are “responsible, not only for the result of their willful acts but also for an injury occasioned to another by their want of ordinary care or skill in the management of their property or person.”
If a truck driver is unreasonably careless or negligent in the way they operate the vehicle, this gives rise to legal liability.
However, while crash victims can pursue a claim directly against a careless truck driver, they may also consider seeking compensation from the company employing the trucker. These companies may have much more insurance and much more money available to ensure the crash victim is fairly and fully compensated.
Trucking companies or businesses that employ truckers to transport their goods do not have to be negligent in order to be held accountable for the harm resulting from a collision. As Lathrop v. HealthCare Partners Medical Group (2004) 114 Cal.App.4th 1412 explains, “under the common law doctrine of respondeat superior, a principal or employer is vicariously liable for the acts of an agent or employee committed in the course of employment.”
This means if a trucker causes you harm while doing their job, you can take action against the business that hired them to be on the road at the time of the incident.
Statute of Limitations for an Escondido Truck Accident Claim
You must take action within a set period of time to pursue a personal injury claim and get compensation. Under California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, you have two years. This deadline is called the statute of limitations and your claim will be time-barred or prohibited from being brought forward if you delay beyond the allotted time.
Let Our Escondido Truck Accident Lawyers Help You Get Justice
Miller & Steele can help you determine who to pursue a claim against and will help you gather the necessary evidence to hold the truck driver and their employer accountable for any losses you endured. Contact us at (760) 439-2210 today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how our advocacy can help you get the money you deserve.