Truck accidents can cause significant damage, especially when they result from negligence or repeated violations. If a truck driver has a history of traffic violations, you might wonder whether this affects your accident claim in Virginia. The answer is yes—past violations can influence the outcome of your claim, depending on the specifics of the violations and the crash.
How past violations affect claims
Truck drivers face higher standards than regular drivers due to the size and weight of their vehicles. A history of violations, such as speeding tickets or failed inspections, can point to a pattern of negligence. In a Virginia truck accident case, these violations can prove that the driver operated recklessly or violated safety laws. If the driver’s actions caused the accident, their past violations can serve as important evidence of negligence.
How violations impact liability and damages
In a truck accident claim, you must prove liability. If the truck driver has a history of violations related to the cause of the crash, such as traffic law violations or neglected maintenance, it can strengthen your case. Past violations can also affect damages. Courts may factor in the driver’s negligence when determining compensation, potentially leading to higher awards for pain, suffering, medical bills, and lost wages.
Trucking company responsibility
Trucking companies must ensure that their drivers follow safety regulations. If a company ignores or overlooks a driver’s past violations, this can complicate the case. You could argue that the company failed to monitor and train its driver, which increases their responsibility for the accident.
Even if the driver lacks a history of violations, their actions at the time of the accident still matter. Understanding how past violations affect your claim can help you secure fair compensation.
To support a commercial vehicle accident claim in Virginia, gather evidence such as the driver’s history and maintenance records. These documents can help show how past violations contributed to the accident.