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Commercial Drivers’ License Standards (Part B)

Definition of Respondeat Superior

Respondeat superior is Latin for "let the master answer," which is a common-law doctrine where an employer is liable for an employee's actions if the actions occur during the employee's scope of employment.

In the case of a Chicago truck accident, if a truck driver was negligent and caused an accident, then the employer of that truck driver would be held liable for any injuries sustained. Proving truck company negligence is important because it allows an injured party the opportunity to receive damages that they may be entitled to.

Example of a Trucking Company Being Liable for Actions of Employee

An example of a trucking company being liable for actions of an employee is found in a case in the state of Arizona. This incident occurred in August 1976, when a family experienced a tragic trucking accident.

The Garcia family had been driving down a road and passed a truck being driven by John Truesdell. The upset driver made his feelings known over the citizen's band radio. The family once again passed the driver further down the road, which led to an angry pursuit.

The family moved their vehicle into the slow lane so that the driver could pass them, however, over the radio Truesdell made his intentions be known when he announced that he would "teach them a lesson they would never forget." He ended up sideswiping their vehicle which forced them off the road and resulted in injuries.

Although the driver was responsible for the injuries, it was the trucking company that ended up paying $45,000 in damages. This was a case of respondeat superior being played out. Even though the trucking company had no directly caused the accident, they had responsibility of their driver and since the incident occurred during the driver's scope of employment, they were held responsible.

If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident involving a truck, contact a Chicago truck accident lawyer who will fight for your rights and help you determine negligence.

Hiring a Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer

Even experienced, safe drivers run the risk of being involved in a serious Illinois truck accident. Beyond your initial recovery, injuries in these types of accidents are often serious and can result in permanent disability or disfigurement which can cause loss of the ability to work, years of rehabilitation, serious medical bills, and have a significant impact on your life.

A Chicago truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. has dealt with similar cases to yours and knows the best course of action for your claim. To improve your chances at a fair settlement and take the burden out of all the paperwork involved in an Illinois truck accident claim, contact us today for a free case evaluation - 312-263-1080

As a service to the residents of Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, and Illinois in general, the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. will frequently publish blogs about local traffic accidents. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Illinois and can result in serious injuries and/or fatalities.

Common accidents include, but are not limited to:

-- single-car accidents such as SUV rollovers;
-- accidents due to hazardous road conditions; and
-- accidents caused by distracted, aggressive, and/or drunk drivers.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.