Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident?..

Truck accident cases often raise urgent legal and medical questions for victims and their families. At Fang Accident Lawyers, we understand how complex these incidents can be, especially in the Denver area. Determining who is liable in a truck accident requires close examination of multiple parties, industry regulations, road conditions, and the full scope of damages suffered. We also consider the influence of federal trucking laws and insurance negotiations. That’s why we take a personalized, thorough approach to ensure every client receives the compensation they deserve.

Truck Accident Overview

Truck accidents are among the most devastating motor vehicle crashes due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. These incidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, particularly when passenger vehicles are involved. In urban areas like Denver, increased traffic density only compounds the risk of severe collisions.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large truck crashes are most common under the following conditions:

• 27% of fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on interstates
• 54% occurred in rural areas
• 5% took place in work zones
• 76% happened on weekdays
• Of weekday crashes, 70% occurred between 6 a.m. and 5:59 p.m.

These statistics underscore the daily risk faced by Colorado drivers. In high-traffic corridors near Denver, such as I-25 and I-70, truck accidents are unfortunately frequent and often result in extensive damage, serious injury, or loss of life. Understanding when and where these crashes happen can help strengthen your claim and establish liability more clearly.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Victims of truck accidents often suffer from severe injuries that require long-term treatment and affect their ability to work or enjoy life as they did before the crash. We routinely assist clients experiencing:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Internal bleeding and organ trauma
• Fractures and compound bone breaks
• Severe burns or disfigurement
• Emotional and psychological trauma

These injuries often lead to prolonged hospital stays, multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and counseling. Many victims also experience lasting disability, lost income, and disruption of daily life. The financial and emotional toll is significant, making it critical to identify all responsible parties and seek full compensation for damages.

Who Can Be Liable in a Truck Accident?

Several parties may be liable in a truck accident. Liability often extends beyond the driver, encompassing multiple stakeholders in the trucking process. This includes companies responsible for equipment, training, scheduling, and maintenance, all of which may contribute to a crash.

Here’s a closer look:

Truck Driver

Drivers are often the first party examined in truck accident cases. Liability may arise from distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, intoxication, poor decision-making, or violations of traffic or federal safety regulations.

Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held responsible under vicarious liability if their drivers cause harm while performing job duties. They may also be directly liable for negligent hiring, poor training, unsafe scheduling practices, or failure to maintain vehicles. In some cases, company policies or unrealistic deadlines can pressure drivers into dangerous behaviors.

Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer

The manufacturer might be liable if a defective part contributed to the crash. This can include issues like brake system failures, tire defects, or steering malfunctions that caused or worsened the accident. Liability can also arise when a known design flaw or prior recall was ignored, increasing the danger to drivers and others on the road.

Cargo Loading Company

If cargo was improperly loaded or secured, it could shift during transit and cause the driver to lose control. A third-party logistics company responsible for loading may be liable in these situations.

Government Entities

Government liability may arise when poorly maintained roads cause crashes, a lack of warning signs, or hazardous roadway design. These claims follow strict notice and procedural rules under Colorado’s Governmental Immunity Act.

What If Multiple Parties Are Liable?

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing more than one party to share fault in a single accident. In many truck accident claims, both the driver and the trucking company, or even another third party, may be partly responsible. Under Colorado law, a claimant may still recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault, though any award will be reduced based on their share of responsibility.

For instance, if a court finds the driver 60% at fault, the trucking company 30%, and the injured driver 10%, the injured person can still receive compensation. But if the injured party is 51% responsible, they are not eligible for damages.

This system is designed to assign responsibility fairly. However, proving each party’s share of fault requires a thorough investigation and clear evidence. Working with an experienced truck accident lawyer can significantly strengthen your claim and help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What’s the Statute of Limitations for a Truck Accident Claim?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a claim related to a motor vehicle accident is three years, according to Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-80-101. This applies to claims involving bodily injury or property damage.

Missing the deadline usually means losing your right to compensation. While three years might seem sufficient, acting promptly is essential. Gathering evidence, contacting witnesses, securing expert opinions, and building a strong case takes time. Insurance companies often begin their defense immediately, and any delay could weaken your position or limit your ability to recover damages.

Some exceptions apply, especially in cases involving government liability or injuries discovered later, so consulting a lawyer early is the smartest step.

Talk to an Experienced Denver Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents can seriously disrupt your life. At Fang Accident Lawyers, we’re here to guide clients in Denver and surrounding areas through every step of the legal process. From medical expenses to insurance delays, these cases can be overwhelming without strong legal help. If you or someone close to you was injured in a truck crash, learn who is liable in a truck accident and what options you have. Call 720-379-6363 for a free consultation and trusted legal support.