Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case in South Carolina?

Truck accidents in South Carolina can lead to devastating injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities. Due to the complexity of these cases, determining liability requires a thorough understanding of state laws, industry regulations, and case-specific evidence. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, the experienced legal team at CFJ Injury Lawyers can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose CFJ Injury Lawyers for Your Truck Accident Case?

At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we have over 40 years of experience successfully handling personal injury and workers’ compensation cases in South Carolina. Our firm, led by Attorney Catherine F. Juhas, has a proven track record of advocating for accident victims against powerful insurance companies and trucking corporations. We understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll a truck accident can take, and we are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process with compassion, experience, and results-driven advocacy.

Attorney Catherine F. Juhas is licensed to practice in South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. District Court of South Carolina, bringing extensive legal knowledge and courtroom experience to every case. Attorney Eric Saleme, who has been practicing since 2013, is fluent in Spanish and has a strong background in representing clients from diverse communities. Our legal team takes a personalized approach to every case, ensuring that each client receives tailored legal strategies designed to maximize their compensation.

Potential Liable Parties in a Truck Accident Case

Truck accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. Identifying the correct defendant(s) is crucial for maximizing compensation. In South Carolina, liability may fall on one or more of the following:

1. The Truck Driver

A truck driver can be held liable if their negligence contributed to the accident. Common causes of driver negligence include:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Fatigue due to hours-of-service violations
• Distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving)
• Failure to follow traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining their fleets, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. They may be held liable if they:

• Negligently hired an unqualified or untrained driver
• Encouraged drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
• Failed to maintain trucks properly
• Neglected to conduct background checks on employees

3. The Maintenance Provider

Truck maintenance is critical to road safety. If a third-party maintenance provider failed to inspect, repair, or replace essential parts, they could be liable for a resulting accident. Common maintenance failures include:

• Faulty brakes or worn-out tires
• Failure to check engine or transmission issues
• Neglecting to replace damaged lights or signals

4. The Truck or Parts Manufacturer

If a truck accident was caused by a defective vehicle part, such as malfunctioning brakes or steering systems, the manufacturer may be held accountable under product liability laws. A thorough investigation will determine if a defect played a role in the crash.

5. Cargo Loaders and Shippers

Improperly loaded cargo can lead to catastrophic truck accidents. If a cargo company or shipper overloaded a truck or failed to secure cargo properly, they may share liability in a collision.

How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help You Navigate the Truck Accident Process

At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we understand that recovering from a truck accident can be overwhelming. Our legal team will handle every aspect of your case, so you can focus on healing. Here’s how we assist our clients:

• Thorough Case Investigation:

We collect evidence, analyze police reports, interview witnesses, and review truck logs to determine liability.

• Collaboration with Experts:

We work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and forensic experts to build a strong case.

• Negotiation with Insurance Companies:

Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurers to secure fair settlements and prevent lowball offers.

• Litigation if Necessary:

If negotiations fail, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

• Transparent Communication:

We keep you informed at every stage of the process and provide honest legal guidance tailored to your specific case.

South Carolina Truck Accident Statistics

Truck accidents are a serious concern in South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS):

• There were 2,647 large truck crashes in South Carolina in a recent year.
• Fatal truck accidents increased by 15% over the past five years.
• Driver negligence, improper maintenance, and defective parts were among the leading causes of truck-related collisions.

FAQs About Truck Accident Liability in South Carolina

Q: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in South Carolina?

A: Under South Carolina law, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long may result in losing your right to compensation.

Q: What damages can I recover in a truck accident case?

A: You may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was fatally injured)

Q: Do I need an attorney for a truck accident claim?

A: Yes. Truck accident cases involve multiple parties, insurance companies, and legal complexities. An experienced attorney at CFJ Injury Lawyers will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

A: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in South Carolina, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers for a free consultation and let our dedicated team fight for the compensation you deserve.