What to Do if a Truck Accident Was Caused by the Trucking Company’s Violation of FMCSA Rules?
Truck accidents can cause severe injuries that can leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Many truck accidents happen because of the trucking company’s violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules.
FMCSA rules were adopted for a reason. These rules were designed to keep America’s roads safe by preventing collisions. If you or someone you love was involved in a truck accident that might have been caused by the trucking company’s violation of these rules, contact Emerald Law Group to get legal guidance. Our Tacoma truck accident lawyers can help you hold the trucking company accountable and ensure that you obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
What Are FMCSA Rules?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is a federal agency responsible for regulating the trucking industry. FMCSA rules set safety standards that trucking companies must follow, such as driver qualification, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance. FMCSA rules are designed to minimize the risk of accidents on the road. FMCSA rules apply to all commercial motor vehicles that transport goods over state lines. You can view the full list of FMCSA regulations that affect trucks on the agency’s website.
Are Trucking Companies Required to Follow FMCSA Rules?
Yes, trucking companies are required to follow FMCSA rules. The FMCSA has the authority to investigate and enforce compliance with its rules. Trucking companies that violate the FMCSA rules may be subject to fines, sanctions, and even suspension of their operating authority. However, enforcement can be challenging as there are an estimated over 1.2 million trucking companies in the United States, and it is difficult for the FMCSA to monitor them all.
Examples of Truck Accidents Caused by the Trucking Company’s Violation of FMCSA Rules
Let’s review some of the most common types of truck accidents resulting from the trucking company’s failure to follow FMCSA rules:
- Fatigued driving. FMCSA rules limit the hours of service for commercial drivers to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Trucking companies that push drivers to exceed their allowed hours can cause drivers to fall asleep behind the wheel, leading to disastrous accidents.
- Improper loading. FMCSA rules prescribe cargo securement requirements to prevent cargo from shifting during transit. Improperly loaded trailers can cause accidents, especially if the load shifts, causing the truck to lose control.
- Lack of maintenance. Federal regulations require trucking companies to conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition. Trucking companies that neglect vehicle maintenance can cause accidents, such as tire blowouts or brake failure.
- Overweight or oversized loads. FMCSA rules stipulate weight limits and size restrictions for commercial motor vehicles. Overweight or oversized loads can cause accidents, such as bridge collapses and road damage.
These are not the only types of accidents that can be caused by violations of FMCSA rules. If you believe the truck driver or trucking company violated FMCSA rules, contact our lawyers at Emerald Law Group to launch an investigation into the matter and determine liability.
What to Do if a Truck Accident Was Caused by the Trucking Company’s Violation of FMCSA Rules?
If you have been involved in a truck accident caused by a violation of FMCSA rules, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Once you have taken care of yourself, consider contacting a truck accident lawyer in Tacoma or Seattle, Washington.
If your lawyer can prove that the trucking company’s violation of FMCSA rules caused the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages that you have suffered, such as medical bills, loss of income, and diminished earning capacity. Your lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation that you deserve.
Discuss Your Case with a Lawyer
Trucking companies are required to follow FMCSA rules to ensure the safety of truck drivers and other road users. When trucking companies violate these rules, the consequences can be severe. If you have been involved in a truck accident caused by a violation of FMCSA rules, contact our lawyers at Emerald Law Group to get help. Schedule a free case review by calling 206-826-5160.
Source:
fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/search
