Big-rig trucks are not the only danger you face when you are out doing errands, taking the kids to school, or going out for a weekend outing. Rental trucks that are rented out to people who want to save money by moving themselves instead of hiring a moving company can cause victims of an accident to suffer long-term injuries and even death.
What Are the Causes of Rental Truck Accidents?
There could be a number of causes of a rental truck accident. Determining the cause is crucial to deciding which insurance company you need to file your claim for compensation with. Some common reasons these wrecks occur include:
- Driver inexperience. Driving a rental truck, like other commercial trucks, is much different from driving a car, SUV, or small pick-up truck. However, drivers who rent these trucks have received no training and often have no experience driving a rental truck. As a result, many drivers engage in unsafe driving practices that cause them to lose control of the truck and cause a crash—with you and your family paying the price.
- Negligent entrustment. If the rental company knew that the driver had inadequate driving skills, had no driver’s license, was intoxicated, or should not operate a rental truck for other reasons but rented the truck to him anyway, the result can be a tragic collision. In this situation, the rental company, as well as the negligent driver, could face liability.
- Lack of maintenance. Rental companies have a duty to regularly inspect their trucks, make needed repairs, and replace the trucks when they become unsafe due to age. When they fail to do so, they may be responsible for compensating victims of a wreck if the driver causes a wreck due to worn tires, faulty brakes, or other maintenance problems.
- Manufacturing defects. The manufacturer of the rental truck or parts could be held liable in a products liability lawsuit if defective equipment or manufacturing design problems caused the crash.
Did you suffer injuries in a rental truck accident? You need the assistance of an experienced truck accident attorney to negotiate your settlement with the negligent driver and other liable parties so that you receive what you deserve. Call our office to schedule your free case evaluation to discuss your situation and your legal options.
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