Truck Accidents Caused By A Defect: Who Is Responsible?
Truck accidents can be devastating for victims and their loved ones when they happen on the roads in Tennessee. While oftentimes a truck accident is caused by the actions or negligent omissions of the driver, in some cases an accident is caused by a defect in the vehicle itself. When this occurs, who is responsible for the damages that result from a crash? The knowledgeable Nashville personal injury attorneys at Mitch Grissim & Associates have the experience necessary to identify the liable parties and ensure that victims of truck accidents caused by defects get the compensation they deserve. To learn more, call or contact our office today.
Defects in Design or Manufacture
In some cases, a truck accident is caused by a defect in a part of the vehicle that occurs in the design or manufacture of the component part. If there is a fundamental flaw in the design of the part, it is called a design defect. If the design is fine but an error occurs in the creation of the part at the factory, it is called a manufacturing defect. Those responsible for the design or manufacture of a defective part can be held liable for damages if the failure of that part causes a truck accident.
Defects in Transport
In other cases, a truck accident occurs because of a defect that happens in the transportation of the component parts that fail. This can be due to negligent loading, improper storage, and other issues during transport that ultimately cause damage to truck parts that are installed defectively into these large vehicles. If it can be shown that the defects occurred during the transportation of these parts, the transportation company can be held responsible for any accidents that result.
Defects Caused by Maintenance Issues
Finally, some truck accidents occur because of defects caused by maintenance issues, or lack thereof. When the trucks are owned by the trucking company, that company has a duty to maintain their vehicles. Failure to maintain a truck can lead to defects in important parts like the brakes, tires, fuel tanks, and lights. If these faulty parts are not fixed or replaced and an accident occurs, the trucking company can be held responsible.
If a truck is owned by the driver, they may be held responsible for any accidents that occur because of a defect in the vehicle if that defect was caused by a lack of maintenance. Mechanics can also be held liable if the truck was brought in for service but the mechanic either missed an obvious defect in an important part or caused the damage themselves when working on the vehicle.
Talk to Our Office Now
If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident around the Nashville area, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Mitch Grissim & Associates are here to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call the office or contact us today to schedule a free evaluation of your case and learn more about your legal options.
