What is Negligence in Utah Truck Accidents?

If you speak to a Utah truck accident attorney about filing a lawsuit, one term that will come up frequently is “negligence.” You may already know what negligence means. But if not, it can be confusing to hear the term thrown around so often. Let’s explore the idea of negligence and how it applies to truck accidents in Utah.

Utah Truck Accidents – Understanding Negligence

To begin with, we can check out what the legal definition of negligence is. According to Cornell Law School, negligence is, “A failure to behave with the level of care that someone of ordinary prudence would have exercised under the same circumstances.” In the case of truck accidents, drivers and trucking companies should practice appropriate care as expected in the trucking industry.

To win your case, you must prove that the truck driver or trucking company was negligent. You also have to prove that the negligence caused your accident. There are many areas where negligence can occur in a truck accident. These include:

Loading the truck. Companies must load commercial trucks in specific ways for safety. For example, if they load too much weight on a trailer it can become a danger.
Hiring truck drivers. Commercial truck drivers must complete training and get a license to do their job. They also must maintain good standing – like not getting too many speeding tickets – to keep their license. Unfortunately, some trucking companies do not verify that the drivers they hire are qualified for the job.
Overworking drivers. Even the most qualified truck driver can only work for so many hours before fatigue sets in. Drivers should adhere to regulations regarding how long they can work and how often. Trucking companies are supposed to monitor drivers and ensure they are not overworked.
Failing to maintain equipment. Trucking companies are required to keep vehicles, trailers, and other equipment properly maintained. Not only is it good business – because a well-maintained truck lasts longer – it’s also a must for safety. For example, a truck with poorly maintained brakes is a danger to drivers and the public alike.

Truck Accident Lawyers Are Skilled at Proving Negligence

No one is required to hire a lawyer to pursue a personal injury case. However, if you want to win your case, you should hire a professional. An experienced truck accident lawyer knows how to prove negligence. They know all the right places to look for negligence, like those listed above. They also know how to gather all that evidence into a case that will convince the court. Without an attorney, you are far less likely to prove negligence.

Contact Our Firm Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident, please contact us immediately. You can call (801) 521-4145 or fill out our confidential contact form to speak to a knowledgeable attorney. Contact us now to get started on your case.