There is a considerable amount of federal and state regulation that applies to truck driving safety, and for a good reason. Trucking accidents are often catastrophic. The sheer size of trucks makes them dangerous when operated negligently or recklessly. In addition to their size, they often carry hazardous cargo that can add increased risk to others on the road.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported over 6,300 accidents involving tractor-trailers in 2020. Of these, over 2,500 resulted in injury, while approximately 110 of the accidents resulted in death.
While driver fault contributes to trucking accidents much of the time, the data provided by PennDOT also lists the following factors as additional causes behind trucking accidents:
- Tire/wheel failure
- Brake issues
- Unsecure cargo loads/Overloaded cargo
- Steering system failure
- Trailer hitch failure
- Suspension failure
Rules Truck Drivers Must Follow
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) places certain requirements on truck drivers to help ensure the safety of others sharing the road with them. For example, truck drivers must take a 30-minute break for every 8 consecutive hours of driving. Further, they’re not allowed to drive more than 60/70 hours in 7/8 consecutive days. Truck drivers are also required to log their driving hours and rest hours.
Trucking companies also have legal obligations regarding their fleet. They must perform routine inspections and maintenance to ensure trucks are safe. Again, detailed records are required, and a failure to keep trucks in safe working condition constitutes severe negligence.
When you’re in a truck accident, the defense lawyers hired by the trucking company will do all that they can to point the finger of blame at you even when they’re ultimately at fault.
How a Truck Accident Attorney Can Help You
When you or a loved one is injured in a truck accident, you should call an experienced truck accident lawyer right away. While you’re navigating your physical and emotional recovery, your attorney will go after the truck driver and truck company, requesting the logs and records that may evidence negligence or misconduct.
At D’Intino Law Firm, we know how devastating a truck accident can be for those injured. We advocate fiercely on behalf of our clients who have suffered in trucking accidents so that, at the end of the day, financial recovery is not another difficulty they must overcome. Call our office today for a free consultation at 267-491-9111.
