What Happens if a Truck Company Violates FMCSA Rules?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for regulating the trucking industry and enforcing the rules and regulations meant to prevent serious truck accidents. Unfortunately, some trucking companies violate these rules, which can increase the risk of a catastrophic truck accident. When a fully loaded 80,000-pound commercial truck is involved in an accident, it is usually the occupants of the passenger vehicle that suffer the most devastating injuries.

What Are Common FMCSA Violations?

Some of the most common FMCSA violations involve meeting unrealistic delivery deadlines, which puts a great deal of pressure on truck drivers to continue driving, even if they have exceeded the maximum hours of service.

The following are the most common FMCSA violations:

• Hours of service violations: According to FMCSA regulations, truck drivers cannot drive more than 14 hours in 24 hours. In addition, they cannot drive more than 10 consecutive hours and must take a 30-minute break after driving eight consecutive hours. Truck drivers may not drive more than 60 or 70 hours over seven or eight days on the road. Often, these regulations are not enforced, or trucking companies look the other way if truck drivers have violated hours of service regulations.
• Truck inspections: Commercial trucks must be inspected regularly to ensure that the truck is properly maintained. If there are any maintenance issues, the repairs must be made before the truck can return to the road. Unfortunately, trucking companies often avoid making certain repairs to save money. However, these issues will likely become more severe if the repairs are not made.
• Cargo inspections: There are obvious regulations regarding how the truck’s cargo is loaded and secured. Truck drivers must stop at weigh stations, where inspectors check the cargo to ensure it has been packed safely and that there is no risk of the cargo shifting, coming loose, or falling out of the back of the truck and onto the road. If the trucking company fails to ensure that the cargo was loaded correctly or urges drivers to avoid cargo inspections, there may be severe consequences for the truck driver and the company. In addition, if the cargo comes loose, the truck driver could lose control of the truck and cause a devastating accident.

What Should I Do if I am Injured in a Truck Accident?

If you suffered a severe injury in a truck accident, your priority should be to seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. It is also highly recommended that you contact a truck accident lawyer who will determine who is liable for your injuries.

While many truck accidents are caused by driver negligence, the trucking company may be responsible if they violate FMCSA regulations. A lawyer can gather evidence and protect your rights.

Savannah Truck Accident Lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC Represent Victims of Truck Accidents

If you were severely injured in a truck accident, contact our Savannah truck accident lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC. We can determine whether the trucking company violated FMCSA regulations. To schedule a free consultation, call 478-254-2007 or contact us online. Located in Macon, Georgia, we serve clients in Savannah, Albany, and Atlanta.