Federal Trucking Regulations

Protecting Your Rights in a Truck Accident

If you were injured in a truck accident, there is a possibility that the truck driver was in violation of one of the federal trucking regulations, which are strict regulations designed to ensure safe practices on behalf of trucking companies and truck drivers.

At The Daspit Law Firm, you will receive personalized legal representation from a former insurance defense lawyer who knows how the other side operates. We know that victims in truck accidents can be overwhelmed by their opposition, but with our help, you no longer have to worry.

We offer free case evaluations, and take cases on a contingency fee basis. When dealing with a complicated truck accident case, we handle everything for you.

Due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, there are numerous federal trucking regulations designed to maintain strict safety standards in the trucking industry; these federal regulations are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA).

Examples of federal trucking regulations:

• Hours of Service
• Cargo Securement
• Drug & Alcohol Testing
• Medical
• Hazardous Materials
• Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Hours of Service (Fatigued Driving)

While all of the federal trucking regulations are important, the hours of service (HOS) regulation has a direct impact on the numbers of truck accidents. Historically, truck drivers have a habit of pushing themselves to the limit and driving for hours on end, sometimes and the insistence of their employers. They often drive fatigued, which much like drunk driving, dramatically increases the risk of an accident.

In an effort to reduce excessively long work hours that increase the risk of fatigued-related crashes, the FMCSA's hours of service regulations are intended to ensure that truck drivers have enough time to obtain adequate rest on a daily and weekly basis.

The FMCSA says that the objective of the rule is to reduce acute and chronic fatigue by limiting the number of hours per day and week that a driver can work. While these regulations are practical, unfortunately many truck drivers violate them on a regular basis.

Summary of the HOS regulations:

• 11 hour driving limit
• Limits maximum average work week to 70 hours
• Requires truck drivers to take a 30 minute break after an 8 hour shift

Get a Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

If you or someone you love were injured in a truck accident, we urge you to contact an Austin personal injury lawyer from The Daspit Law Firm. As a former insurance defense lawyer, Attorney John Daspit is not only well-qualified to help you, but his knowledge and experience will even the playing field.

Contact our Austin personal injury firm today to schedule your free case evaluation!

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