Trucks are big and heavy, so accidents involving them can have serious consequences. Because of this, there are many different regulations placed on trucks, their drivers, and the companies that operate them. When people ignore trucking regulations, they can injure the people who share the road with them. If you have been injured in an accident with a larger vehicle, a York County, PA truck accident attorney from our firm may be able to help you.
What Are Some Examples of Trucking Regulations?
There are many trucking regulations, so let’s take a look at some that could be a factor in accidents and your personal injury suit.
Weight and size limits: Federal and state laws limit the weight of commercial trucks to 80,000 pounds. If trucks are overloaded, they are even more dangerous to other vehicles on the road because they can take longer to stop or will not be as responsive.
Hours of service rules: Driving can be tiring, so truck drivers need to take rests. Unfortunately, these drivers are often on tight deadlines and some ignore these rules. Drivers who drive for longer than 11 hours per day and do not take mandated breaks are putting other motorists at risk.
Maintenance requirements: A trucking company is responsible for making sure that its trucks are in top shape before they get on the road. When someone neglects vehicle upkeep, they should be held responsible if mechanical failure causes an accident.
Alcohol and drug testing: A driver sitting behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound vehicle while high or drunk is an accident waiting to happen.
How Can Trucking Regulations Affect My Case?
Trucking regulations can affect your case in a few ways, but one of the most important things is that they can often help you determine who is liable. Many different people are responsible for making sure that a truck operates safely. Depending on which part of the process saw things go wrong, liable parties could include:
- The company that owns the truck
- The owner of the cargo
- The driver of the truck
- An outside firm responsible for maintenance and inspections
One or more of these parties could be responsible for an accident.
Do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Trying to hold all of these parties accountable can be tricky, and you can be sure that a big trucking company has lawyers on its side. You should have representation of your own. A seasoned truck accident attorney from our firm can:
- Gather evidence needed to make your case
- Defend you from accusations of wrongdoing
- Field settlement offers and calculate fair compensation
- Communicate on your behalf
- Prepare you for testifying
- Answer any questions that you have
Talk to an Attorney Today
If you are ready to pursue a personal injury suit, you do not have to do it on your own. Contact Ilkhanoff & Silverstein and schedule an appointment with our team. We can tell you more about what we can do to assist you at a free initial consultation.
