Trucking companies are an essential part of the economy as they transport goods from one place to another. However, accidents involving trucks can lead to severe injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a trucking company’s negligence, you have the right to file a complaint. Filing a complaint against a company can be a complex and intimidating process, but it is essential to hold the company accountable for its actions. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to file a complaint against a trucking company.
What are the Federal Regulations?
Before filing a complaint, it is important to understand the Federal regulations that govern the trucking industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency responsible for regulating commercial trucking companies. They have established a set of regulations that all trucking companies must follow. These regulations cover everything from driver qualifications to vehicle maintenance. Understanding these regulations can give you a better understanding of what kind of complaint you can file against a trucking company.
Gather Information
The filing of a complaint against a trucking company is to gather information that will strengthen your case. Here are some essential pieces of information you should collect:
- The name and contact information of the trucking company
- The name and contact information of the driver
- The license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the truck
- The location and time of the accident
- Witnesses’ contact information
- Photos of the accident scene and damage
Contact a Lawyer
Before filing a complaint against a trucking company, it is crucial to contact a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law. An experienced attorney will guide you through the process and help you file a strong complaint. They will also advise you on the types of compensation you may be eligible for.
File a Complaint
After you’ve gathered all the necessary information and contacted an attorney, you can file a complaint against the trucking company. You can file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or with the state’s Department of Transportation. Provide detailed information about the accident and explain how the trucking company was negligent. Your attorney will assist you in preparing the complaint.
Wait for a Response
Once you’ve filed a complaint, you’ll need to wait for a response from the trucking company. The company will need to investigate the allegations and respond to the complaint within a specified time frame. The company may offer a settlement, or they may deny the allegations.
Negotiate a Settlement
If the trucking company offers a settlement, your attorney will advise you on whether to accept or reject the offer. If you reject the settlement offer, your attorney will represent you in court. If you accept the settlement offer, you’ll receive compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
File a Lawsuit
If the trucking company denies the allegations or offers an inadequate settlement, you may file a lawsuit against the company. Your attorney will guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit and represent you in court. The lawsuit can lead to a trial, and a jury will determine the amount of compensation you may receive.
Other Reporting Options
In addition to filing a complaint with the FMCSA, there are other reporting options available if you witness unsafe driving behavior on the roadways or suspect that a truck driver is operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol:
- Call 911 – If you witness an emergency involving an unsafe truck driver on the roadways (e.g., speeding, reckless driving), call 911 immediately so that law enforcement can intervene as soon as possible;
- Notify The Trucking Company – If you have evidence that suggests a driver may be operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol (e.g., erratic driving behavior), contact their employer directly so they can take appropriate action;
- Report Directly To Texas Law Enforcement – If you live in Texas and witness unsafe driving behavior on public roads, contact local law enforcement so they can investigate further.
Conclusion
Filing a complaint against a trucking company can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to hold the company accountable for its negligence. The process can be complex and time-consuming, but with the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney, you’ll have a strong case. Gather all the necessary information, contact a lawyer, and file a complaint against the trucking company. If the company denies the allegations or offers an inadequate settlement, you may file a lawsuit. Remember to be patient and persistent, as the process can take several months to resolve. By taking these steps, you can receive compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
