Federal trucking regulations set clear standards for safety on the road. These rules apply to commercial trucks, drivers, and trucking companies. When violations happen, they can lead to serious accidents and legal claims, and our Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyer is here to help you.
Our firm has assisted hundreds of clients in recovering millions of dollars in compensation after accidents. With decades of combined experience, our attorneys have the knowledge necessary to provide the dedicated legal assistance that you deserve. Contact the Burton Law Firm today to determine how we can assist you with your truck accident case.
- Hours of Service Rules
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) limits how long truck drivers can be on the road without a break. The goal is to prevent fatigued driving, which is a major factor in truck accidents. Current rules include an 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty and a 14-hour workday limit. There is also a 30-minute break requirement after eight hours of driving. If a trucking company pushes drivers to exceed these limits, it could be held responsible for an accident, and you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim for your losses.
- Weight and Load Restrictions
Federal law sets weight limits for commercial trucks to prevent excessive wear on roads and reduce the risk of rollovers or brake failures. The standard weight limit for most trucks is 80,000 pounds, including cargo. If a truck is overloaded, it becomes harder to control and stop. Shippers and trucking companies must also follow securement requirements to prevent shifting loads that could cause rollovers or lost cargo on the road.
- Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
Trucking companies must regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles. The FMCSA requires daily inspections, pre-trip and post-trip checks, and annual inspections by qualified personnel. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering issues are often linked to poor maintenance. When a trucking company skips inspections or delays repairs, it increases the risk of mechanical failures leading to accidents.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing
Federal law prohibits truck drivers from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, which is stricter than the 0.08% limit for most drivers. Trucking companies must conduct pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol tests. If a driver is caught violating these rules, they can face serious penalties, including license suspension. When a trucking company fails to follow these testing rules, it may be held responsible for an impaired driver’s actions.
- Licensing and Qualification Standards
To legally operate a commercial truck, drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Obtaining a CDL requires passing a skills test, background check, and medical examination. Some drivers must also obtain special endorsements for hauling hazardous materials or oversized loads. If a trucking company hires an unqualified driver or fails to conduct proper background checks, it can be liable if an accident occurs.
- Electronic Logging Devices
Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are required to track a driver’s hours and ensure compliance with federal regulations. These devices replace paper logbooks, which were often falsified to allow drivers to exceed legal limits. ELDs provide accurate records that can be used in accident investigations. If log data shows a driver exceeded their hours, it could be used as evidence in a legal claim.
Contact Our Raleigh Truck Accident Lawyer Today
When a trucking company or driver violates federal regulations, it can be a key factor in determining liability for an accident. These rules exist to promote safety, and breaking them puts everyone at risk. Our experienced attorney can help you file a claim and pursue compensation from the parties at fault for your accident.
We help victims of truck accidents understand their legal options. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, contact the Burton Law Firm today to discuss how we can assist you with your case.