The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the government
organization that regulates traffic laws and trucking operations across
the nation. Under its legislation, trucking companies and drivers must
follow several rules to promote safety and decrease trucking accidents
on U.S. roadways. What are these regulations, and how are truckers supposed
to follow them?
Here Are 3 Main Trucking Regulations of the FMCSA:
1. Regulations for Truck Visibility
The FMCSA imposes laws regarding trucking lamps and reflective devices.
Specifically, commercial trucks are required to use a variety of lamps,
turn signals, and reflectors in designated locations. This is to promote
visibility of trucks and reduce the number of truck crashes.
2. Regulations for Truck Maintenance
The FMCSA requires trucking companies and drivers to inspect, repair, and
maintain the vehicles on a regular basis. In fact, truckers must perform
pre and post-trip inspections to identify any faulty parts or defects
that could create a safety hazard. All commercial trucks must be thoroughly
inspected at least once a year by a qualified inspector.
3. Regulations for Truck Driver Rest
Under the FMCSA, truck drivers must abide by hours of service regulations.
They can only drive 11 hours at a time following a 10-hour rest period.
Furthermore, they may not drive after 14 hours on duty in a given day.
Truckers must take a 30-minute break for every 8 hours of driving, and
are limited to 60 hours in 7 consecutive days, or 70 hours in 8 consecutive
days. After their driving limit is reached for the week, they must take
a 34-hour rest break. These regulations are in place to help prevent accidents
from drowsy driving.
Knowledgeable Truck Accident Lawyers Serving Long Island
Gruenberg Kelly Della provides experienced representation to clients injured
in commercial truck accidents. If the driver or trucking company failed
to follow FMCSA regulations, our firm can help you pursue justice by filing
a lawsuit. Our
Long Island truck accident attorneys have helped numerous clients achieve successful settlements for their
injuries, and we will work diligently on your behalf.
Contact us today to receive a free initial consultation.