If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Texas, especially one involving a company-owned vehicle, it’s natural to wonder who you can hold accountable — the driver, the company, or both? Fortunately, Texas law gives you the right to pursue compensation not just from the driver, but also the company they work for under a legal principle known as respondeat superior.
This doctrine allows employers to be held liable for the actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of employment. In simple terms, if a company truck driver causes a crash while performing job duties — making a delivery, driving between job sites, etc. — the company can be held financially responsible for the harm caused.
But don’t expect the company to accept blame easily. These cases are rarely straightforward. The defense may claim the driver was “off duty,” operating outside the scope of their employment, or driving the vehicle without permission. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable Dallas car wreck attorney or Dallas auto accident lawyer who can uncover and present the evidence needed to challenge those claims.
Key evidence may include:
Driver schedules, logs, and GPS data
Dispatch or delivery records
Vehicle maintenance and inspection reports
Employment contracts and insurance policies
One advantage of suing the company is that they generally have larger insurance policies than individual drivers. This can result in more substantial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, long-term care, and emotional distress.
If alcohol or drug use was involved, or if the company was negligent in hiring or supervising the driver, punitive damages may also apply. These are meant to punish extreme negligence and deter similar behavior in the future.
In some cases, especially in commercial trucking, third-party liability may also arise. For example, if a freight loader improperly secured cargo, or if a mechanic failed to identify a major safety issue, those parties may share liability too.
These cases require quick and thorough investigation. Large trucking companies and insurers often begin building their defense immediately after a crash. That’s why contacting a Dallas accident injury lawyer or Dallas personal injury attorney as soon as possible is key.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle — whether a delivery truck, utility vehicle, or fleet car — don’t settle for less than you deserve. Contact our firm today for a Dallas personal injury consultation, and let’s make sure the responsible party is held fully accountable.