Canadian Truckers Legal Issues & Disputes

Legal Issues Faced by Canadian Truckers

1. Lease-to-Own and Equipment Financing Disputes.

Truck drivers in Canada often enter into lease-to-own agreements for their vehicles, which can include unfavorable or unclear terms. Some of these agreements may have clauses that make it difficult for truckers to exit early or buy out the lease, and in some cases, they may face sudden repossessions even when they believe they are in good standing. Many truckers have challenged the fairness and legality of such leases, indicating a pattern of financial stress and power imbalance in these transactions. If you need help with lease-to-own disputes, contact Runyowa Law.

2. Employment vs. Independent Contractor Misclassification.

The Canadian trucking industry has seen significant disputes around the misuse of contractor classifications, such as whether individuals working as employees are independent contractors. This misclassification allows carriers to avoid paying employment benefits and taxes. This can amount to lederal labor violations, with consequences for both the worker and the carrier in the form of back payments, audits, and penalties. If you need help with employee vs. independent contractor classification disputes, contact Runyowa Law.

3. Non-Payment or Underpayment for Loads Delivered.

Truck drivers and owner-operators often have problems getting paid for completed jobs. These problems range from delayed payments to outright non-payment by brokers or logistics companies. This situation is made worse when there are no written contracts or formal agreements, leaving truckers with little documentation to support their legal claims. The problem of unpaid freight bills across Canada is significant. If you need help with non-payment or underpayment for load deliveries, contact Runyowa Law.

4. Insurance Denials or Coverage Gaps.

Truckers often face challenges when insurers deny claims for accidents, theft, or cargo issues. Denials may be based on alleged misstatements or technical policy exclusions. These disputes can leave truckers facing significant out-of-pocket losses. Truckers to understand their coverage terms and to challenge unjust denials. If you need help with insurance denials or coverage gaps, contact Runyowa Law.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Violations.

Transport Canada and provincial authorities enforce safety and regulatory standards that truckers must comply with. Violations such as driving beyond authorized hours, equipment failures, and paperwork lapses can result in hefty fines or temporary suspensions. These sanctions can impact truckers’ ability to operate. If you need help with regulatory compliance and safety violation disputes, contact Runyowa Law.

**DISCLAIMER:

The information on this website is for reference purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or a contract for legal services with Runyowa Law Professional Corporation. If you need formal legal advice in a covered practice area, please contact Runyowa Law Professional Corporation at 1-306-206-2800