When a Truck Accident is Caused by Negligent Hiring Practices in Texas

June 9, 2025 | Truck Accidents

Victims of truck accidents are often left wondering why the crash occurred and who is ultimately responsible. Initial accident reports don’t always provide clear answers. One important question that may arise is whether the trucking company’s actions (or inaction) played a role. In Texas, truck accidents can sometimes be traced back to negligent hiring practices. When trucking companies fail to properly vet or train their drivers, they may be held liable for the harm caused. These companies have a legal duty to ensure public safety.

If you suspect negligent hiring may have contributed to your accident, speak with an experienced Austin truck accident lawyer at (512) 441-1111 to explore your legal options.

The Truck Company Engaged in Negligent Hiring Practices

Negligent hiring refers to a trucking company’s failure to conduct due diligence when hiring an employee, thereby failing to ensure the driver is fit for the job. Federal laws require that truck drivers possess specific skills and training, and it is the responsibility of the trucking company to ensure the driver meets these obligations before allowing them to operate the truck.

There are numerous examples of when negligent hiring may happen, though the following are some of the most common indications:

• The trucking company failed to complete a background check on the truck driver. This could yield numerous details about the driver’s criminal background or otherwise high-risk behaviors.
• The trucking company hired a driver with a history of driving under the influence to work for them. Typically, there is no tolerance for truck drivers with a DUI on their record.
• The truck driver had a history of numerous accidents caused by reckless driving. This may include accidents from speeding, illegal lane changes, or losing control of the vehicle.
• The driver did not have the necessary qualifications to operate in the state, such as a commercial driver’s license, or did not meet federal qualifications and requirements
• A trucking company failed to investigate the truck driver’s recent moving violations that could indicate a pattern of reckless behavior

In these situations, victims must demonstrate that there was a noted risk in hiring or continuing to employ a driver, and the trucking company failed to identify that risk. As a result, they allowed the truck driver to get behind the wheel and ultimately cause the accident.

When these oversights lead to deadly consequences, families may be left grieving and searching for answers. In such tragic situations, it’s important to consult with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Austin who can help hold the trucking company accountable.

The Trucking Company Failed to Meet Federal Requirements

In situations where the truck company failed to investigate or take action, and there is evidence that the driver did not meet the requirements to operate the vehicle safely, the trucking company could be found negligent. To minimize these risks, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established a set of rules governing how trucking companies hire drivers. This includes:

• Ensuring a valid commercial driver’s license
• Validating that the driver does not have a history of criminal offenses
• Documenting that the driver does not have a history of safety violations
• Complete a full background check on the driver
• Complete drug testing on the applicant
• Maintain complete and accurate records of the driver on an ongoing basis

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Austin To File a Claim

When negligent hiring practices occur, the trucking company, not just the driver, could be responsible for the injuries and losses suffered. If you believe this happened in your case, contact the Bonilla Law Firm to seek the help of an experienced Austin truck accident attorney who can accurately investigate the claims and hold all those who hurt you accountable for the losses suffered.