Without big trucks, our nation’s economy wouldn’t be what it is today. Whether they’re loaded down with vehicles, consumer electronics, or even livestock, trucks are responsible for hauling goods both down the street and across the country.
But the massive size and weight differences between semi trucks and passenger vehicles make them dangerous during accidents. Fortunately, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) was created to help regulate the trucking industry and to make roads safer for both truck drivers and other motorists.
To accomplish that, the FMCSA created many strict guidelines for truck drivers, truck owners, and truck companies to follow. Unfortunately, those regulations are sometimes violated, and truck accidents can occur as a result. Common violations include:
- Hours of service violations – Drivers are prohibited from exceeding a specific number of hours on duty or behind the wheel at a given time without breaks or sleep periods.
- Maintenance violations – Trucks that are neglected or improperly maintained are more dangerous to drive, and truck owners are responsible for keeping them serviced on a strict schedule.
- Weight and loading violations – Big trucks have maximum weight limits and must be loaded in a specific manner to stay balanced and safe to drive.
If you or someone you love were hurt in a semi truck accident, the Nashville truck accident lawyers at Ponce Law want to investigate and determine if an FMCSA violation caused the crash. It’s our goal to help you get maximum compensation. Call today for a free consultation.
