Every truck company should follow specific federal, state, and local trucking regulations and all the truck drivers in the state. The laws ensure the prevention of risks and accidents on the road. If you are a truck accident victim, consult Caruso Law Offices, P.C., to seek legal assistance for your case.
Federal Regulations
The most important regulations that trucking companies and their workers must follow are as follows:
- Service hours
The limits for work hours are listed in the federal guidelines. They include the maximum number of hours the drivers can work along with the breaks. This regulation aims to end accidents caused by fatigue and overworked drivers. It prevents overworking of drivers and promotes sufficient breaks, so they are well rested.
Different sets of rules are applied for trucks carrying passengers or goods.
- Goods-carrying drivers
Drivers with cargo cannot work for more than 11 hours a day without taking a break of 10 hours continuously.
- Drivers with passengers
Passenger-carrying drivers can work for 10 hours on the road after taking an 8-hour break.
- Truck Maintenance
Trucking companies should ensure that their trucks are completely safe and do not threaten or endanger other people’s lives on the road. They must regularly inspect the trucks and ensure the maintenance of trucks. Moreover, they must also preserve the maintenance record.
- Training Requirements
By the law, trucking companies are responsible for training the drivers to drive safely. Along with that, they must possess a commercial driver’s license, eliminating accidents caused by unskilled drivers.
- Drug and Alcohol Tests
As per the federal guidelines, truck drivers must not consume illicit substances or alcohol while driving. The drivers will be checked at different moments to ensure they are sober. Alcohol and drug tests take place in the following circumstances:
- Before hiring.
The driver is assessed for alcohol or drug consumption before being selected and employed. If the driver is suspected to be impaired while driving, they will be tested to see if there is any substance in their system.
- After an accident.
If an accident occurs, the guilty driver will be tested for any signs of alcohol or drug consumption to check if the mishap was due to the driver’s impairment.
- Returning to duty.
If the driver has taken part in a violation, they will be checked when they return to work.
Seek legal assistance
If you get into a truck accident, note that you can seek compensation. Speak to an experienced attorney who can assist you in exploring your legal options and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
