After an accident with commercial trucks, people oftentimes have a lot of questions concerning the intricacies of commercial trucking and how it affects their case. Allegiance Law hears this time and time again, meaning that there is a clear need for better communication of federal, state, and local trucking regulations. Knowing these can not only prevent accidents but better inform you of what may affect your case when moving forward with a claim or lawsuit concerning a trucking accident.
Experienced truck accident lawyers work around the clock to secure compensation for their clients. The use of a variety of legal methods and information such as the safety regulations of commercial trucks is critical to the success of a case like yours. Contact us today for more information regarding the specifics of trucking cases and what Allegiance Law can do for you.
Trucking companies and private drivers are required to follow a list of guidelines that regulate their services as they transport goods across the nation. Some of these are local, while others are federal. Even crossing state lines subjects truck drivers to certain rules that the average American may not know about.
First and foremost, it is critical that trucking companies ensure that their trucks are safe by performing routine maintenance on them. It is their duty to ensure that their trucks are mechanically compliant with federal regulations as to not jeopardize the lives of others on the roadway. This must be done on a consistent basis as a mechanical failure could have devastating consequences on others in the near vicinity.
In addition, truck drivers are only able to operate under certain hours. The hours of service are mandated to prevent excessive driving and therefore increase the likelihood of a crash. These guidelines are federal – meaning despite their location in the country, they must adhere to these regulations. Truck drivers carrying property max out at 11 hours on the road after having 10 consecutive hours off duty. Similarly, those carrying passengers can only drive up to 10 consecutive hours after having eight consecutive hours off duty.
Like other jobs, truck drivers must submit to drug and alcohol testing depending on their place of employment. They may be subject to these tests before being offered employment, after an accident, or at random times to ensure that the probability of driving while impaired is lessened.
Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons: improperly loaded cargo, lack of training, fatigue or distracted driving, absence of maintenance, and much more can lead to catastrophic accidents for other vehicle operators on the road. This is especially important in a region such as the Bay Area where population density is high and many people use alternative means of transportation to go about their daily lives.
Reach out to Allegiance Law today to learn more about your options after a trucking incident. One of our San Mateo truck accident attorneys is poised to assist you in your legal endeavors and attempts to reclaim financial compensation for your losses. You can reach us at 415-404-6395 or by clicking here to receive a free case evaluation before you commit.
Posted in Truck Accident