Who Is Liable for a Wide-Turn Truck Accident?
Posted on: August 15, 2025
If you have ever been stuck behind a large truck making a wide turn, you know how tense it can feel. These massive vehicles require extra room to maneuver, and when something goes wrong, the results can cause life-changing harm to those involved.
What Usually Causes a Wide-Turn Truck Accident?
Wide-turn truck accidents typically occur when a truck swings out to complete a turn, sometimes crossing into other lanes or colliding with nearby vehicles. These accidents often result from a truck driver’s failure to:
- Signal properly
- Check mirrors or blind spots
- Stay within their lane
- Follow the speed limit
- Secure and balance their cargo
Any one of these mistakes can turn what should be a routine turn into a serious accident.
Who Could Be Held Liable After a Wide-Turn Truck Accident?
Liability for a wide-turn truck accident does not always rest solely with the truck driver.
- Truck Driver: If the driver was distracted, broke traffic laws, or misjudged the turn, they could be found at fault.
- Trucking Company: Employers may be liable for failing to train drivers properly, setting unrealistic schedules, or neglecting truck maintenance.
- Cargo Loaders: An unbalanced or improperly secured load can make steering more difficult and contribute to a crash.
- Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers: In rare cases, mechanical failures caused by defective parts or improper repairs can play a role.
How Do Investigators Determine Liability?
Finding out who is responsible often requires a detailed investigation. Attorneys may:
- Review police reports, driver logs, and maintenance records
- Interview witnesses
- Examine photos or video footage of the accident
- Consult accident reconstruction experts
All of this evidence helps establish the sequence of events and determine fault. An experienced truck accident lawyer can ensure the investigation is thorough and focused on protecting your rights.
What Compensation Can Victims Receive?
Victims injured in wide-turn truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and future medical care
- Lost income and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Long-term care in severe injury cases
The amount you may recover depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the evidence supporting your claim.
Why You Should Call a Lawyer After a Truck Accident
Truck accident cases are often complex because they may involve multiple liable parties and insurance companies. Without legal help, it can be difficult to determine who should pay and how much. An experienced truck accident attorney can:
- Identify all responsible parties
- Negotiate aggressively with insurers
- Work with experts to build a strong case
- Represent you in court if necessary
Get Legal Help From Our Long Branch Truck Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law
If you have been involved in a truck accident, our Long Branch truck accident lawyers at Ellis Law are here to help. Call us at 732-308-0200 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. From our Freehold office, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.