In the wake of a traumatic truck accident, the repercussions can be overwhelming, leaving victims grappling not only with physical injuries but also with the complex legal aftermath. In this article, we aim to shed light on a crucial question: Who could be liable for your truck accident injuries in Michigan?
Determining liability is crucial before seeking compensation for your damages. If your life was derailed by a large truck crash, here’s what you should know about doing so.
Understanding Michigan’s No-Fault System
Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that regardless of who was to blame for the accident, your own insurance company is expected to cover your medical expenses and certain economic losses. However, there are exceptions to this rule, particularly when it comes to severe injuries.
Consequently, it may be possible to take action against those who were responsible for the crash. Such parties might include:
1. A Negligent Truck Driver
In many truck accidents, the primary source of liability is the truck driver. Speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence are all examples of negligence that can cause a wreck. Your legal team can meticulously investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident to determine if the truck driver’s actions were indeed a contributing factor to your injuries.
2. The Trucking Company
Trucking companies play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of their drivers and vehicles. If it is discovered that the company failed to maintain the truck, neglected driver training, or violated regulations, they may be held liable for the accident. A resourceful truck accident attorney can explore all avenues to identify if the motor carrier shares responsibility for your injuries.
3. A Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider
Defective truck parts or inadequate maintenance can also contribute to accidents. If a defective brake system, faulty tires, or other mechanical issues are identified, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held accountable. Should you think this could be the case, look for a lawyer who has the expertise to delve into the technical aspects of any potential product liability.
4. A Government Entity
Sometimes, poor road conditions or inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. In such cases, government entities responsible for maintaining the roads may be held liable.
5. A Third Party
In certain situations, a third party, unrelated to the truck driver or company, may be partially or wholly responsible for the accident. This could include other motorists or negligent entities involved in loading the cargo. Whether you can secure compensation from any such parties will come down to the strength of the evidence you present and the available insurance they have.
Discuss Your Case with a Truck Accident Attorney in Michigan
Navigating the complexities of liability in truck accidents demands a compassionate and experienced legal team. At Smith & Johnson, we are committed to unraveling the intricacies of your case to determine who could be held accountable for your injuries.
Our goal is not only to provide legal guidance but to support you on the path to recovery. If you or a loved one has suffered from a truck accident in Michigan, contact Tim Smith (tsmith@smith-johnson.com) or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free initial case review with a truck accident lawyer in Michigan.
