It’s hard to imagine more road accidents that are more frightening than being hit by an 80,000lb 18-Wheeler truck. But this is true for the more than 130,000 Americans who are injured in significant truck accidents each year. Suffering from any car accident can be scary and frustrating, but a collision with a commercial vehicle brings some challenges to find your rightful place. Truck companies have legal and insurance resources in their hands, let alone to protect their interests after an accident.
As someone who is just working to heal your injuries and get your life back together following a serious truck collision, you may find that you need the help of an outstanding Houston 18 wheeler accident lawyer. Zehl & Associates has the experience, expertise, and determination to stand out from the big companies and collect your fair share of compensation.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”) is a government agency responsible for the regulation of vehicles operating on highways in the United States. This includes small trucks, large rigging, trucks, 18-wheelers, flats, trucks in the refrigerator, buses, etc. FMCSA regulates the following sectors in the trucking industry in the United States:
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Licensing:
FMCSA requires separate truck drivers to carry driver’s licenses (“CDL”). Workers on certain types of buses are also requested to have the CDL.
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Drug and alcohol testing:
The FMCSA requires staff who drive commercial trucks and buses to undergo drug and alcohol testing. Suppose a truck driver injures you under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In that case, your Houston disaster counselor can use the driver’s violation of these rules to find out who is responsible for your legal injury.
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Service Time:
The “Hours of Service” requirements allow commercial truck drivers to get enough rest and not to drive when they are tired. One of the most common causes of small truck accidents is driver fatigue.
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Insurance:
FMCSA requires commercial truck drivers and operating companies to take out a small amount of insurance. Unfortunately for those affected by the truck accident, these low policy numbers may not be enough to cover their injuries. The lawyers for the commercial trucking company also hire influential lawyers who will try to deny you compensation.
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Size and weight:
FMCSA limit the size and weight of large commercial trucks and buses. Small heavy trucks and large trucks can cause severe and fatal accidents.
Related: Things You Should Always Do After a Car Accident
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Vehicle Safety:
These rules are enacted to ensure that heavy loads carried on central roads are adequately protected. If you have been harmed by an unsafe property, a truck accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights.
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Driver Medical Needs:
The purpose of these rules is to ensure that truck drivers are adequately fit for the expected job of truck delivery. Any commercial truck driver who fails to comply with these requirements and who caused an accident is liable for the damage that resulted.
If you continue to be injured in a truck accident, you should work with a lawyer. The one who knows the FMCSA requirements for active truck drivers.
