If you own a trucking company or are a truck driver, you must have hauled a wide variety of items. Sometimes, truck drivers transport more specialized items such as artwork, and it would be a nightmare for any commercial trucking company or driver to be involved in a truck accident during such trips. Truck drivers need to be aware of and mitigate the risks that could lead to an accident to avoid the financial peril that comes with such an incident. For example, driving impairment, vehicle defects and failure, improper loading, and weather conditions, amongst others, can all lead to an accident. So, when transporting artwork from exhibition to exhibition or from an auction to the owner, and there’s an accident, here’s what happens next.
Assessing The Damage Immediately After The Accident
When there’s a truck accident involving artwork, which is often expensive, it’s important to involve the authorities immediately. Authorities will assess the damage to determine the extent of the damage and liability. During the assessment, the authority will document the incident and collect as much information from the scene as possible, which will come in handy in the case. 
As the victim involved, if you were injured during the accident, it’s important you seek counsel from trucking accident injury lawyers because of the complex nature of the case. Remember, many factors are being considered in such a case, like the damaged vehicles, the damaged art, and the pain and suffering of lives involved in the accident.
Legal Responsibility And Liability
The most important stage in dealing with a truck accident involving artwork is identifying who is liable and the person’s legal responsibility. Note that because you are the truck driver of the artwork, it doesn’t automatically make you liable for the damage to the accident when involved in an accident. Depending on who the evidence points to as the responsible party for the accident, they will be legally responsible for:
- Medical expense
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
The extent of the legal responsibility of the responsible party for the accident depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. In some cases, the accident could be a result of a failed driving system or simply negligence. For example, suppose a drunk driver or a trucking company going against the strict regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regarding vehicle maintenance, cargo loading, and driving hours ends up in an accident. In that case, the court will be harsher in its verdict, which may involve jail time.
Insurance Claim And Compensation
Additionally, when purchasing or hauling artwork, it’s important to get insurance coverage for it, especially if it’s expensive. In the eventuality of an accident, the insurance company may reimburse you for the cost of repair or replacement based on your insurer’s valuation. Importantly, ensure you understand the insurance policy coverage you’re getting. Sometimes, a standard insurance policy might not be sufficient for your needs, so you may need to also consider add-on policies and floaters. So, when filing for an insurance claim, ensure you have a lawyer’s help to ensure the insurance company lives up to the details of your policy and covers your loss for art.