Accidents involving large commercial trucks are often more complex than typical car accidents due to the added layer of federal regulations. The trucking industry is subject to strict guidelines governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which helps promote road safety and sets rules for driver conduct, vehicle maintenance, and more. When truck accidents occur, these regulations play a critical role in determining liability and understanding the legal landscape of a claim.
Suppose you’ve been in an accident with a commercial truck in Los Angeles. In that case, it’s essential to consult a knowledgeable Los Angeles truck accident attorney who can evaluate how federal laws may impact your case. Below, we discuss some key federal regulations relevant to truck accident claims and how they affect victims seeking compensation.
Hours of Service (HOS):
To combat driver fatigue, federal law limits the number of hours truck drivers can work consecutively. They are typically allowed to drive up to 11 hours following 10 consecutive hours off-duty and are limited to a maximum of 60/70 hours on duty in a 7/8 consecutive-day period. A truck driver’s violation of HOS regulations can indicate negligence and support a liability claim.
Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections:
Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles properly and conduct regular inspections. Mechanical failures such as brake or tire issues are common causes of accidents and may indicate negligence if maintenance records reveal inadequate upkeep. A skilled Los Angeles truck accident lawyer can obtain maintenance logs and inspection reports to investigate this aspect of your case.
Drug and Alcohol Testing:
Federal regulations mandate drug and alcohol testing for commercial truck drivers. Drivers must be tested before employment, after accidents, and randomly. If a driver involved in an accident fails a drug or alcohol test, it can serve as evidence of recklessness and increase their liability in an accident claim.
The Role of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are now required in all commercial trucks to record driving hours accurately. These devices help monitor compliance with HOS regulations by electronically tracking drivers’ working and resting hours. In the event of an accident, ELD data can be crucial for a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer to determine if fatigue may have been a factor.
With access to ELD information, lawyers can identify potential violations and establish whether the driver or trucking company was negligent. This information can significantly strengthen a victim’s case, particularly if a driver was over their legal driving hours at the time of the accident.
Liability of Trucking Companies in Federal Violations
In truck accident claims, liability often extends beyond the truck driver. The trucking company, responsible for overseeing their drivers and maintaining safe practices, may share in the blame for an accident. Companies that encourage drivers to ignore safety regulations violate HOS rules, or neglect vehicle maintenance can be held responsible. The Crown Law Group, PC understands how to examine evidence, including company policies and internal communications, to build a strong case.
Victims can navigate the complex layers of responsibility by working with an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney. Proving liability often requires detailed evidence that shows the trucking company was aware of or directly contributed to unsafe practices, whether through failing to enforce compliance with federal laws or pressuring drivers to cut corners.
Why Federal Regulations Are Critical in Proving Negligence
Federal regulations are not just guidelines but legal standards that trucking companies and drivers must follow. Any violation of these rules can be used as evidence to support a negligence claim. Whether it’s a failure to follow maintenance standards, ignoring hours-of-service restrictions, or failing to conduct appropriate drug testing, these violations provide a legal basis for victims to seek compensation for their injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress.
The Crown Law Group, PC, has extensive experience handling cases involving federal regulations. By analyzing evidence and working with accident reconstruction experts, they build a comprehensive case showing how negligence or regulatory non-compliance directly contributed to the accident.
How a Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
Navigating a truck accident claim involving federal regulations requires specialized knowledge of state and federal laws. With an experienced attorney, victims can secure valuable evidence, such as driver logs, ELD data, and maintenance records, often key to proving negligence. An attorney can also help identify responsible parties, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. Handling a truck accident case can be complex, but with an attorney knowledgeable in federal regulations, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact us at 310-734-0504 to schedule a free consultation. Tristan Crown and the dedicated team at Crown Law Group, PC, are here to support you every step of the way.
