In the blink of an eye, a semi-truck driver can cause a catastrophic accident that leaves victims with serious injuries. All too often these injuries are disabling, sometimes even leaving a victim paralyzed. These individuals, in addition to those who are fortunate to survive a truck accident with less serious injuries, can face extensive damages. Medical expenses and lost wages can threaten a victim’s financial stability, and the physical and emotional pain and suffering can be overwhelming. Taken together, these damages can leave victims feeling stressed out and fearful of their future.
By pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, individuals harmed by a negligent trucker may be able to recover compensation for their damages. However, given that the losses associated with these types of accidents are often quite extensive, many truckers are unable to satisfy judgments against them. Therefore, truck accident victims who are able to impose liability and prove the amount of damages incurred may still struggle to recover the compensation to which they are entitled.
This is where a vicarious liability claim may help. These claims, which seek to hold employers responsible for the actions of their employees, can allow an accident victim to reach deeper pockets that are much more likely to cover a victim’s damages. These claims are usually contentious, with employers seeking to distance themselves from their employee. A vicarious liability claim requires the victim to prove that the employee was on the clock and performing job duties at the time of the accident, as well as showing that the employer was benefiting from the work conducted by the employee at the time of the accident.
Truck accident victims have a lot to contend with in the aftermath of their wreck. At a time when they should be focusing on their recovery, they are often forced to find a way to make ends meet and secure the medical care they need. In many instances, taking legal action is the only way to alleviate the stress associated with these damages and find a true road to recovery.
