Limits And Regulations That Truck Drivers Must Follow

Trucks play a crucial role in the American economy. They are responsible for the transportation of goods across the country, and they can move a lot of product at one time. While these vehicles are important, they can also be dangerous for others on the road due to their large size and heavy weight.

Trucks are significantly bigger than other vehicles on the road, and they are heavier as well. In a collision, a normal passenger vehicle, van or pickup truck will sustain the majority of the damage no matter the speed of the collision. For this reason, it is especially important for truck drivers to remain vigilant and stay focused. There are  specific safety regulations they must follow as well.

Rules for increased safety

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has specific rules and regulations that truck drivers must follow. They limit the number of hours a driver can be behind the wheel without a break, and they also outline certain things truckers must do in order to stay safe and vigilant while driving. These rules mostly pertain to the number of hours that a trucker can be on duty, how many hours a trucker can drive consecutively and how long a break must last before a reset occurs.

A California trucker is responsible for honestly logging his or her hours behind the wheel. He or she should not push the limits or do other things to drive longer before stopping. Tired truckers are a serious problem, and they are more likely to cause a car accident.

The role of the employer

Trucking companies should not encourage unsafe driving habits, such as driving too many hours in order to get loads delivered faster. Employers should ensure that their drivers are accurately logging hours of service, and they should make sure newer drivers have the right amount of training and experience before they start taking long trips.

The serious nature of truck accidents

Truck accidents are likely to result in serious injury or property damage. Victims of these accidents may feel intimidated about trying to hold a trucking company accountable or going up against an insurance provider. If you suffered injuries in a collision with a large truck, you have legal options. You can learn about the possible ways you can seek recompense for your losses by reaching out for the assistance of an experienced truck accident attorney.