Truck accidents are among the most devastating collisions on Louisiana roads. The size and weight of commercial trucks mean that even a single mistake can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. But one of the biggest challenges after a truck crash isn’t just recovering — it’s determining who’s legally responsible for the damages.
Unlike typical car accidents, truck accident liability often involves multiple parties. At The Burrell Firm LLC, we help injured victims uncover the truth, identify all negligent parties, and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Truck Accident Liability
Liability in a truck accident refers to who is legally at fault for causing the crash. In Louisiana, truck drivers, trucking companies, manufacturers, and even third-party contractors may share responsibility.
Because of the Louisiana comparative fault system, multiple parties can be held partially liable based on their percentage of fault. This means you can still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility — your total award will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Understanding what caused the collision is key to determining who’s liable. Some of the most frequent causes of truck crashes include:
- Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Speeding or reckless lane changes
- Improper truck maintenance or inspections
- Overloaded or unsecured cargo
- Mechanical or brake failures
When these factors come into play, one or more parties could be found negligent.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Louisiana Truck Accident
Truck accident cases can be complex because multiple entities are often involved in the truck’s operation, maintenance, and cargo. Here are the main parties that could be held responsible:
1. The Truck Driver
The truck driver is typically the initial focus of an investigation following an accident. They may be liable if they were:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted by a phone or GPS device
- Exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively
- Failing to follow rest regulations or hours-of-service limits
When a driver’s negligence directly causes a crash, they (and sometimes their employer) can be held accountable.
2. The Trucking Company
Under the doctrine of vicarious liability, trucking companies can be held responsible for their drivers’ actions if the driver was working within the scope of employment at the time of the crash.
The trucking company can likewise be held directly responsible for:
- Failing to properly train or supervise drivers
- Ignoring maintenance schedules
- Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines
- Falsifying logbooks or safety records
Many accidents happen because companies prioritize delivery speed over safety.
3. The Cargo Loaders or Shippers
Improperly loaded cargo can make a truck unstable, leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents. If the cargo loaders or shipping companies failed to secure or balance the load correctly, they may share liability for resulting damages.
4. The Truck or Parts Manufacturer
If the accident was caused by a defective tire, brake, steering component, or other mechanical failure, the manufacturer or parts supplier could be held liable under product liability law. Defective components can make even the most skilled driver lose control.
5. Maintenance and Repair Providers
Sometimes, third-party maintenance companies are responsible for truck inspections or repairs. If they perform faulty maintenance or overlook critical issues, they can be held accountable for the accident.
6. Government Entities or Contractors
If a poorly maintained road, missing signage, or unsafe construction zone contributed to the crash, a government agency or road contractor might share liability. These cases can be more complex due to specific filing deadlines and legal procedures for suing public entities.
Proving Liability in a Truck Accident
Establishing truck accident liability requires a thorough investigation and strong evidence. The legal team at The Burrell Firm LLC works quickly to collect and preserve critical information, including:
- Black box (event data recorder) information
- Driver logs and time sheets
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Cargo loading documents
- Witness statements and surveillance footage
- Accident reconstruction reports
The more evidence gathered early, the stronger your case becomes.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of Louisiana truck accidents often suffer severe physical, emotional, and financial losses. The attorneys at The Burrell Firm LLC can help you pursue full and fair compensation for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- In wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship
Our team understands how insurance companies operate — and we fight to ensure you’re not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
See how we’ve helped other clients recover by visiting our case results page.
Why You Need a Louisiana Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accidents. They often involve multiple insurance policies, state and federal trucking regulations, and large corporations with aggressive defense teams.
When you hire The Burrell Firm LLC, we will:
- Investigate every aspect of your crash
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Handle communications with insurers and trucking companies
- Negotiate for maximum compensation
- Take your case to trial if necessary
We have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for justice on your behalf.
Contact The Burrell Firm LLC Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Louisiana truck accident, don’t wait to get help. Time is critical in preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
Contact The Burrell Firm LLC today for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will review your case, explain your legal options, and stand by you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Determining truck accident liability in Louisiana requires in-depth knowledge of state laws, trucking regulations, and the ability to stand up against powerful corporations. With The Burrell Firm LLC on your side, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with skill, dedication, and compassion.
Your fight for justice starts today — and we’re here to help you win it.
