When Can a Trucking Company Be Held Responsible for an Accident in Colorado?

When a large truck causes a serious crash, most people immediately think of the truck driver as the responsible party. But in many cases, the company that owns or operates the truck shares the blame — or is even more at fault than the driver. At Pribila & Fields, we help victims of truck accidents understand who is truly liable. If a trucking company allowed safety violations, failed to maintain equipment, or hired an unqualified driver, we make sure they’re held accountable.

Vicarious Liability: When Employers Are Automatically on the Hook

In Colorado, and under most state laws, an employer can be held legally responsible for the actions of an employee while that employee is performing their job. This is known as vicarious liability or “respondeat superior.” That means if a truck driver causes a crash while performing job duties — such as making a delivery — the trucking company can be sued for damages, even if the company itself wasn’t directly negligent. However, there are exceptions:

• If the driver was an independent contractor (not an employee), vicarious liability may not apply.
• If the driver was acting outside the scope of their job — such as using the truck for personal errands — the company may not be liable.

That’s why truck accident claims often require careful investigation into the employment relationship and what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Direct Negligence: When the Company’s Own Actions Are to Blame

Trucking companies can also be held liable for their own negligent actions — not just the actions of their drivers. Here are the most common examples:

1. Negligent Hiring

If the company hires a driver with a history of reckless driving, DUI, or license suspensions, they can be held responsible for failing to properly screen and vet that individual.

2. Negligent Training

Driving a commercial vehicle requires specific training. If the company didn’t properly train the driver on safety protocols, load balancing, or defensive driving, they may be liable.

3. Negligent Supervision

Trucking companies are required to monitor their drivers’ logs, driving hours, and safety performance. If they ignore red flags or allow unsafe practices, they can be held accountable.

4. Improper Vehicle Maintenance

Commercial trucks must be regularly inspected and maintained. Worn brakes, bald tires, or broken lights can all lead to devastating crashes. If the company failed to keep the truck in safe working condition, that’s grounds for liability.

5. Hours-of-Service Violations

Federal law limits how many hours a truck driver can work without resting. If the company encourages or pressures drivers to exceed these limits, and a crash occurs, they could be liable for pushing unsafe practices.

Federal Regulations and Liability

Trucking companies are heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules exist to prevent accidents and protect public safety. Some of the key regulations include:

• Driver qualification requirements
• Drug and alcohol testing
• Maintenance and inspection standards
• Hours-of-service (HOS) limits
• Electronic logging devices (ELDs)

Violations of these rules — especially when they lead to an accident — can provide strong evidence of negligence in a personal injury claim.

How an Attorney Can Prove Company Liability

Proving that a trucking company is responsible requires more than just pointing fingers. It involves collecting and analyzing evidence that may include:

• Driver qualification and employment records
• Truck maintenance logs
• Hours-of-service logs and ELD data
• Internal company communications and policies
• Black box data from the truck’s onboard computer

At Pribila & Fields, we work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and trucking industry specialists to build a solid case. Our goal is to uncover all contributing factors and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Why It Matters to Hold the Company Accountable

Trucking companies have a responsibility to put safe drivers and well-maintained vehicles on the road. When they cut corners, push drivers beyond safe limits, or ignore mechanical issues, the results can be catastrophic. Holding companies accountable isn’t just about justice for the victim — it’s also about changing dangerous industry practices and preventing future crashes.

Injured in a Truck Accident in Colorado? Call Pribila & Fields

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, don’t assume the driver is the only one at fault. The trucking company may have played a major role — and you deserve to know the full truth. Contact Pribila & Fields today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, investigate all possible sources of liability, and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.