When you’re driving down the highway, you trust that every semi-truck behind you is being operated by a safe, qualified driver. But what happens when a freight company puts profits over public safety? Can they be held accountable? According to a major federal court decision handed down on July 8, 2025 — the answer is yes.
What Happened?
The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed an Ohio district court that had dismissed a wrongful death lawsuit brought by Robert Cox, whose wife Greta Cox was tragically killed in a semi-truck crash on I-40 in Oklahoma. The broker who hired the trucking company — Total Quality Logistics (TQL) — knew or should have known that the carrier had a long track record of safety violations.
Despite this, TQL booked the carrier anyway. That decision ultimately led to a fatal crash.
Why This Case Matters
TQL tried to hide behind a federal law called the FAAAA (Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act) — a law that limits how states can regulate freight brokers. But the court saw through it.
The judges ruled that even though the FAAAA restricts some claims, it does not prevent victims from suing brokers when their negligence puts unsafe trucks on the road and people get hurt — or worse, killed. The court rightly said that lawsuits like this fall under a “safety exception” that protects state authority to enforce basic roadway safety rules.
What This Means for You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident — especially if a third party like a freight broker or logistics company played a role — you may have the right to seek justice beyond just suing the driver or their company. This case shows that courts are willing to hold brokers accountable when they cut corners and hire unsafe drivers.
Serving Southern Indiana: We Fight for Families Like Yours
As an Indiana injury attorney, I represent families throughout Floyd, Clark, Harrison, and surrounding counties who are reeling after devastating crashes. Trucking companies and freight brokers must be held to the highest standards — and I will fight to make sure they are.
If you or someone you love has been harmed in a truck accident, don’t wait.
Call Marc Sedwick, Trial Lawyer, today for a free consultation.
Because your family deserves answers. And justice.