You were hurt in a truck accident and the driver might not be the only one at fault. For many Michigan families, a serious collision creates a mountain of medical bills and uncertainty. While the driver’s actions matter, the company behind the wheel often shares the legal responsibility.
Trucking companies must follow strict safety regulations. These include federal mandates and Michigan-specific rules for in-state carriers. When these companies cut corners to save time, they put everyone on the road at risk.
The company ignored a dangerous driving record
Trucking companies must screen drivers before hiring them. Red flags include:
- A history of traffic violations or prior crashes
- A suspended or disqualified commercial license
- Failed drug or alcohol tests that were overlooked
Keeping a driver with a troubled record on the road is a serious compliance failure.
The truck was not properly maintained
Federal and state rules require regular inspection and maintenance of commercial vehicles. Signs of neglect include:
- Worn or defective brakes
- Bald or underinflated tires
- Faulty lights or broken safety systems
Maintenance logs are required by law. Missing or falsified records are a significant red flag.
Hours of service rules were violated
Drowsy driving remains a leading cause of highway accidents. Therefore, strict regulations limit how long a driver can operate without rest. Some carriers pressure drivers to skip breaks or falsify logbooks to meet tight deadlines. This fatigue significantly slows reaction times and makes crashes much more likely.
The cargo was loaded incorrectly
Overloaded cargo can cause a truck to jackknife or roll over during a sudden turn. Since carriers and loading contractors share responsibility, they must keep freight within legal weight limits. Furthermore, they must secure all items to prevent shifting during transit.
Why acting quickly matters in Michigan
Michigan is a no-fault state. After a truck accident, you generally seek Personal Injury Protection benefits from your own insurer first. However, you may be able to pursue a claim directly against the trucking company if your injuries meet Michigan’s “serious impairment of body function” threshold.
Evidence is time-sensitive. Federal regulations require carriers to keep driver logs for six months and other records for varying periods. Once litigation is reasonably anticipated, a preservation letter from your attorney can legally require the company to hold records beyond those standard windows.
Moving forward with confidence
Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle crash involves complex corporate evidence. Companies often have teams of lawyers ready to protect their interests immediately after an incident.
Obtaining a clear view of the carrier’s safety history requires specific legal tools and knowledge of filing deadlines. An experienced attorney can review your case to ensure no evidence is lost or destroyed.