Copy of What Regulations Govern Trucking Companies?

For many, driving near large commercial trucks can be intimidating due to their immense size. In fact, when fully loaded, they can weigh up to 40 tons. This, unfortunately, means that accidents involving these vehicles can be devastating. However, a number of important regulations have been enacted to help reduce the risk of accidents involving commercial vehicles. The following blog explores some of the laws that trucking companies must adhere to, as well as the importance of working with our Irvine truck accident lawyers to fight for the justice you deserve during these difficult times.

What Rules Must Trucking Companies Adhere To?

First and foremost, in order for a driver to legally operate a commercial vehicle, they must obtain their commercial driver’s license (CDL) and abide by the laws unique to their state. However, the trucking industry as a whole is governed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), both of which are government agencies responsible for enforcing rules and regulations to keep those on the road safe.

As such, one of the most important rules trucking companies must adhere to is the hours of service limit. Essentially, this rule serves to reduce how much time drivers can operate their vehicles before taking a mandatory rest period. Though driving may not seem physically demanding, it can be exhausting for the drivers. As such, drivers are at risk of fatigue and falling asleep behind the wheel, both of which can lead to serious accidents. Additionally, drivers are limited to driving no more than 11 hours before a mandatory 10-hour break.

Another rule trucking companies must abide by relates to drug and alcohol testing. While alcohol testing is only mandated in some situations, such as following an accident, trucking companies are required to drug test drivers, including following their employment, before they operate a vehicle for the first time, after an accident, at random over the course of their employment, and even when off duty. Drug testing helps reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring drivers are not using substances that could impair their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

What Should I Do if I Am Involved in a Truck Accident?

Despite the regulations in place, accidents involving truck drivers can still happen. As such, understanding the steps you should take if you are injured in an accident with a negligent truck driver is critical.

Generally, one of the most crucial steps you can take after an accident occurs is to contact emergency services immediately. Not only will this dispatch a police presence to the scene, but it also sends emergency medical technicians to assess you for injuries. Even if you feel okay in the moments immediately after the accident, you should let the first responders examine you, as accidents of this nature can be catastrophic.

If you are injured in an accident due to a negligent truck driver or their employer, the most important thing you can do is connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. It can quickly become overwhelming to try to navigate an accident lawsuit while also healing from any injuries you have sustained as a result. If you need help, working with the team at California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, is in your best interest. We can handle the legal complexities of this matter so you can focus on healing. Contact us today to learn more.