When we’re involved in a truck accident, the cause of the crash isn’t always immediately clear. Unlike standard car accidents, commercial trucking accidents are governed by a complex set of federal and state regulations. These rules are designed to keep our roads safe, but when they are violated, they can play a crucial role in proving fault in our accident claim. As Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyers, we know how to investigate regulatory violations and use them to strengthen our case for compensation.
Understanding Trucking Regulations
The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state transportation agencies. These rules are meant to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue, overloaded cargo, mechanical failures, and other hazards. Some of the most critical regulations that may impact our case include:
1. Hours Of Service (HOS) Rules
Truck drivers are required to follow strict limits on how many hours they can drive before taking a break. The FMCSA mandates that drivers:
- Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
- Must take a 30-minute break after driving for 8 consecutive hours
- Cannot work more than 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
If a truck driver was fatigued at the time of our accident and their logs show violations of these rules, it could prove negligence.
2. Vehicle Maintenance And Inspections
At Burton Law Firm, we know that trucking companies must ensure their vehicles are safe for the road. Regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs are required by law. If a truck’s brakes, tires, or other critical parts were neglected and caused our accident, the trucking company could be held liable.
3. Cargo Loading Regulations
Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks can cause serious accidents, including rollovers and jackknife crashes. FMCSA rules specify weight limits and securement requirements for cargo. If our accident was caused by shifting cargo or excessive weight, the company responsible for loading the truck may be liable.
How These Regulations Affect Our Accident Claim
When a trucking regulation is violated, it provides strong evidence of negligence. However, proving these violations requires a thorough investigation. As experienced truck accident lawyers, we take the following steps:
- Obtain Driver Logs & Black Box Data – These records can show HOS violations, speeding, or erratic driving behavior.
- Review Maintenance Records – Checking inspection reports can reveal if the truck was in poor condition at the time of the crash.
- Examine Cargo Records – Shipping documents and weight logs help determine if the truck was improperly loaded.
- Secure Drug & Alcohol Test Results – If substance use played a role in the accident, these tests can prove driver impairment.
Holding The Right Parties Accountable
Trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. Depending on the violation, we may hold the:
- Truck driver responsible for reckless behavior
- Trucking company accountable for poor maintenance or excessive work demands
- Cargo loaders liable for improperly secured shipments
- Truck manufacturer at fault for defective parts
Trucking regulations exist to protect us, but when they’re ignored, accidents happen. If we’ve been injured in a truck accident, understanding these rules can make all the difference in proving negligence and securing the compensation we deserve. That’s why working with our truck accident lawyer is essential—we have the experience to uncover regulatory violations and build a strong case on our behalf. Contact us today to learn how we can help.