Who Can Be Sued After a Car Accident?

Who can be sued after a car accident? Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have the right to take legal action against reckless drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or even government entities responsible for road maintenance. 

A Rhode Island car accident lawyer can help you determine liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Employers of Commercial Drivers

If the driver responsible for the accident was operating a commercial vehicle, their employer may also be liable for damages. Businesses such as trucking companies, delivery services, and rideshare platforms can be held accountable under vicarious liability laws if their employee caused the crash while performing job-related duties.

When determining if you can sue for a car accident involving a commercial driver, it’s crucial to establish the employment relationship and the scope of work-related activities at the time of the collision.

Holding an employer responsible can significantly impact the amount of compensation available. Large companies typically carry higher insurance coverage than individual drivers, meaning your claim may result in a larger payout.

Employers may also be directly liable if they fail to properly train drivers, neglect routine vehicle maintenance, or pressure employees into unsafe driving practices.

When Companies Are Responsible for Employee Accidents

Employers are legally responsible for their employees’ actions when they occur within the scope of employment. This legal doctrine, known as respondeat superior, applies to commercial drivers operating company-owned vehicles during work hours. If a truck driver, delivery service employee, or rideshare driver caused your accident while on duty, the company’s insurance may cover your damages.

In some cases, negligent hiring or training can further establish employer liability. If a company knowingly hires a driver with a history of reckless driving, DUI convictions, or insufficient training, they may be held accountable for your injuries.

Employers also have a duty to maintain their fleet, meaning failure to conduct regular vehicle inspections or repairs could also make them liable for accidents caused by mechanical failures.

When Companies Are Not Responsible for Employee Accidents

Not every accident involving a commercial driver results in employer liability. If the driver was off the clock, using a company vehicle for personal reasons, or working as an independent contractor, the employer may not be responsible. For example, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which limits the company’s liability unless the driver is actively transporting a passenger or en route to a ride request.

Additionally, if an employer strictly prohibits certain behaviors and an accident occurs due to the employee’s misconduct, the company may argue that they are not liable. 

For instance, if a truck driver violates federal hours of service regulations, as outlined by 49 CFR 395, and falls asleep at the wheel, the employer may not be responsible if they had clear policies in place discouraging such behavior. Determining whether a company can be sued requires a detailed investigation into the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

For a free legal consultation,Call 401.467.2300

The At-Fault Driver

When another driver causes a crash, they are typically the first party held responsible in a car accident claim. Rhode Island follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver is financially liable for damages. If you are suing for a car accident, you must prove the driver’s negligence directly caused the crash and your resulting injuries.

In Rhode Island, comparative negligence laws under RI Gen. Laws § 9-20-4 allow you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of liability. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your settlement will be reduced by 20%.

The at-fault driver’s insurance coverage plays a key role in your ability to recover compensation. Rhode Island law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but coverage limits may not fully cover your losses. If the driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may need to explore additional legal options for full financial recovery.

Vehicle Manufacturers and Auto Part Suppliers

When a defective vehicle component contributes to a car accident, the manufacturer or parts supplier may be legally responsible for damages. Suing after a car accident caused by a design flaw, poor-quality materials, or a manufacturing defect can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages. If a recall was issued for the defective part, but you were not properly notified, the manufacturer may still be held accountable.

• Faulty brakes – Defective braking systems can lead to sudden failure and loss of control.
• Tire blowouts – Manufacturers can be liable if tires explode due to poor design or production flaws.
• Steering malfunctions – Defective steering can prevent a driver from avoiding an accident.
• Airbag failures – Faulty airbags may deploy improperly or fail to deploy at all, worsening injuries.
• Accelerator defects – Some vehicles have been recalled due to unintended acceleration, which can cause high-speed crashes.
• Defective seat belts – Seat belts that unbuckle unexpectedly or fail to lock properly in a collision can lead to severe injuries.
• Electrical system failures – Issues with wiring or battery systems can cause vehicle fires or prevent safety features from functioning.

When a vehicle defect plays a role in a crash, multiple parties may share responsibility, including the car manufacturer, parts supplier, or dealership.

Investigating these cases often requires expert testimony, accident reconstruction, and reviewing the car’s maintenance history. If a manufacturer fails to issue a recall despite knowing about a safety issue, you may have a strong product liability case against them.

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Discuss Your Case with a Reputable Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyer

Figuring out who can be sued after a car accident can be complex, especially when multiple parties share responsibility for your injuries; there is no denying that determining how to handle injuries after a car accident can be stressful. 

Whether you are dealing with a negligent driver, a defective vehicle manufacturer, or a government entity responsible for road maintenance, you need experienced legal guidance.

Contact a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer with Gemma Law today to discuss your case and learn how to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call or text 401.467.2300 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form