Truck accidents can be catastrophic, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Understanding the rules that govern commercial trucks is essential for victims seeking accountability. Our Hawthorne, CA truck accident lawyer can help families and injured parties pursue justice by determining how violations impact fault. Attorney Yoni Weinberg has been recognized on the Best Lawyers list as a top personal injury attorney in Los Angeles and across California, reflecting his dedication to representing accident victims. Knowing the federal regulations that trucking companies must follow can clarify liability and strengthen your case after a crash.
Hours Of Service Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) limits the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Drivers are required to maintain logs showing driving time, rest breaks, and total on-duty hours. Violating these rules can result in driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of truck crashes. Our motor vehicle accident lawyer can investigate driver logs and electronic monitoring systems to determine if fatigue played a factor in the accident and hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.
Vehicle Maintenance Standards
Trucking companies are required to maintain vehicles in safe operating condition. This includes regular inspections of brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components. Poor maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. Lawyers like Yoni Weinberg can work with vehicle inspectors and safety experts to assess maintenance records and identify any violations of federal safety standards that may have contributed to a crash.
Driver Qualification Rules
Truck drivers must meet minimum qualifications to operate commercial vehicles, including valid licenses, medical certifications, and background checks. Companies are responsible for verifying that drivers comply with these requirements. In cases where unqualified or medically unfit drivers cause accidents, victims may have grounds for claims against both the driver and the employer. Investigating these qualifications can be a key part of building a personal injury case.
Load And Weight Regulations
Federal law limits the weight and load distribution for commercial trucks to reduce the risk of rollovers, brake failure, and other dangerous conditions. Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can lead to catastrophic crashes. Attorneys can analyze cargo manifests, shipping records, and accident evidence to determine whether violations of these rules played a role in an accident.
Drug And Alcohol Testing Requirements
Truck drivers must comply with strict drug and alcohol testing regulations. Positive tests or violations can indicate negligence if a driver was impaired at the time of a crash. If you were hit by a drunk driver, there may be cause to request additional compensation in the form of punitive damages. Legal teams often request testing records and investigate the company’s compliance with FMCSA rules to support claims for personal injury compensation.
Holding Trucking Companies Accountable
Understanding federal trucking regulations is critical for victims seeking compensation. At Weinberg Law Offices, our team of experienced attorneys works tirelessly to investigate every detail, assess liability, and pursue fair results. Attorney Yoni Weinberg combines decades of experience with a commitment to client advocacy, helping accident victims achieve accountability and recover damages. Schedule your free consultation today by phone, video, or in person to discuss your case with our trusted Hawthorne truck accident attorney and begin pursuing the justice your family deserves.
Disclaimer: This content should not be construed as legal advice.
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