While trucking is integral to the country’s economy, 18-wheeler trucks’ mere size and weight pose a significant threat to other vehicles. The federal government enforces trucking regulations to govern interstate trucking to minimize the risks of collisions. However, when truck drivers and their employers neglect to adhere to federal trucking regulations, there is an increased chance of devastating accidents occurring on the road. If you or someone you love were injured in a truck accident, it is in your best interest to contact a determined Bronx Truck Accident Lawyer who can help you seek the rightful compensation to which you are entitled.
What regulations govern the trucking industry?
Truck drivers and their employers must follow state and federal trucking regulations, as these rules were implemented to keep everyone on the road safe. If these parties fail to follow trucking regulations, and an accident occurs due to negligence, injured individuals can pursue legal action to recover monetary compensation for their damages.
Several regulations govern the trucking industry. However, hours of services regulations are by far the most important. Unfortunately, truck accidents are often caused by driver fatigue as truck drivers are under tight deadlines to travel to their destination within a specific timeframe. Federal regulations dictate how many hours a driver can work in one day. Federal rules stipulate that truck drivers cannot travel more than eleven hours daily. Additionally, they must take no less than a thirty-four-hour break before heading back on the road when driving during a six-to-eight-day window. This helps prevent truck drivers from pushing themselves beyond the limit and avoid drowsy driving.
Moreover, many truck accidents are caused as a result of underqualified drivers. When trucking companies employ truck drivers, they must ensure they have the necessary training to operate a big rig and have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). Sadly, many trucking companies cut corners and ignore this requirement as they need drivers to make a profit. However, inexperienced truck drivers are much more likely to be involved in an accident as they do not have the proper training to operate a big rig safely.
How can a violation of federal rules impact my case?
If you were injured in a truck accident, before you can collect compensation for your damages, you must prove that the truck driver or the trucking company’s negligence directly caused you to accrue your injuries and damages. However, this can be challenging. As such, a seasoned lawyer can help you investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine whether any governmental trucking regulations have been violated. A violation of federal trucking regulations will not only prove the cause of an accident but can result in the responsible trucking company receiving significant fines that deter them from similarly neglecting the safety of others in the future.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact a skilled Bronx truck accident lawyer from James Newman, P.C., as soon as possible. Our firm is prepared to help you fight to recover the just compensation you deserve.
