Two federal agencies cite unsafe trucks as the main factor in trucking accidents. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), semi-truck failures contribute to approximately 10 percent of large truck accidents in the United States. There are strict state and federal regulations designed to maintain truck safety, however, some trucking companies do not comply and the result is catastrophic trucking accidents that cause injury and death.
Federal regulations require trucking companies to inspect their trucks on a regular basis. The companies must keep records of all inspections, repairs and maintenance of their vehicles. In the event of a trucking collision, your personal injury lawyer could examine the maintenance reports to identify factors in the accident.
In addition, there are regulations on how many continuous hours a driver can be behind the wheel. The FMCSA limits truck drivers to a maximum of 11 hours of driving following at least 10 hours off-duty. The driver must keep a written log of their hours off-duty and behind the wheel. The trucking company has the duty to make sure drivers are keeping track of the hours. These days, most trucks have electronic regulators to keep track of when the driver is driving and when they are off-duty.
Even with sophisticated devices to regulate driver behavior, there have been instances where truck drivers keep two sets of books, so that they can drive more hours than allowed. Studies show that a fatigued driver has a slower reaction time and a greater chance of falling asleep at the wheel.
Trucking regulations exist to keep the roads safer. If a negligent truck driver or trucking company harms you or a loved one, contact our office. We offer a free case review.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans accident attorneys