Who Is Liable in a Utah Truck Accident?

When a semi-truck or commercial vehicle is involved in a serious crash, the aftermath can be devastating — not just physically and emotionally, but legally as well. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents in Utah often involve multiple liable parties, complex regulations, and aggressive insurance companies.

So who’s responsible? And how can you make sure your rights are protected?

At London Harker, our experienced truck accident attorneys help injured victims and their families navigate these complex cases. Here’s what you need to know.

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

These factors can point to liability beyond the driver, which is why it’s critical to investigate thoroughly.

In Utah, liability may fall on one or more of the following:

If the driver was negligent — for example, driving under the influence or texting — they may be held personally responsible.

Often, the company that employs the driver is also liable, especially if:

If a defective brake, tire, or other component contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may share responsibility.

If the cargo was improperly loaded or shifted during transport, the party responsible for loading can be liable.

In rare cases, if a poorly maintained road or obstructed signage contributed to the accident, a city or state entity could be held accountable.

In Utah, truck accidents are governed by both state personal injury laws and federal commercial vehicle regulations.

Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule under Utah Code § 78B-5-818, meaning that as long as you are less than 50% at fault, you may still recover damages — reduced by your percentage of fault.

Trucking companies operating in Utah are also subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which outline driver hours, maintenance records, and more.

Truck companies often deploy legal teams within hours of a crash to minimize their liability. Preserving evidence like black box data, dash cam footage, and maintenance logs can make or break your case.

That’s why it’s important to consult with a truck accident lawyer in Sandy, Utah immediately after a crash.

Looking to dive deeper? Check out these related articles from our blog:

Truck accident claims are high-stakes and highly technical. Don’t go it alone.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Sandy, Salt Lake County, or anywhere in Utah, contact the experienced team at London Harker. We’ll fight to uncover who’s liable — and hold them accountable.