Are there Special Laws for Truck Drivers to Keep the Roads Safe?

Every year, countless families are left grappling with the devastating aftermath of trucking accidents. Whether you’ve been injured in a truck accident or lost a loved one due to such a tragic event, the shock and confusion can be overwhelming. A pressing question that often plagues our minds is, “Could something have prevented this?” At Arshad, Pangere & Warring, LLP, we have devoted our careers to helping victims like you find closure and pursue justice. In this post, we’ll explore the special laws in place for truck drivers to help you find answers and understand your rights.

Special Laws for Truck Drivers

Hours of Service Rules

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces hours of service regulations to prevent driver fatigue, a significant factor in truck accidents. Truck drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after ten consecutive hours off duty. Additionally, they cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty. These regulations aim to keep drivers alert and reduce the risk of driving fatigue.

In Indiana, these federal guidelines are strictly enforced, with additional state-specific requirements ensuring drivers adhere to safe driving hours. Violations can lead to severe repercussions, including fines and the driver’s commercial license suspension.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

To further enhance safety, truck drivers must undergo regular drug and alcohol testing. The FMCSA mandates these tests for pre-employment, random checks, and post-accident situations. Any driver found under the influence is immediately disqualified from operating a commercial vehicle.

Indiana trucking laws complement these federal regulations by requiring additional testing for specific substances and implementing stricter consequences for violations. This dual-layered approach ensures that only sober and responsible drivers are on the roads.

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements

Regular vehicle maintenance is critical to preventing mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Federal laws require trucking companies to maintain detailed records of vehicle inspections, repairs, and maintenance. Indiana adds further stipulations, emphasizing the importance of compliance with safety equipment standards, such as functioning brakes and reflective devices.

These regulations mandate routine checks and enforce stringent penalties for non-compliance. Ensuring that trucks are roadworthy protects the driver and safeguards other road users from potential harm.

Speed Limits for Trucks

In the interest of public safety, speed limits for trucks are typically set lower than those for standard passenger vehicles. This is primarily because trucks, due to their significant size and weight, require greater distances to safely come to a stop. To mitigate the risk of accidents, federal regulations often mandate lower speed limits for commercial trucks, especially on highways and other high-traffic roads.

Prevalence of Truck Accidents Despite Special Laws

Despite these comprehensive regulations, truck accidents remain alarmingly prevalent. According to a 2023 report, over 168,000 truck accidents occur annually, with approximately 32% resulting in injuries and nearly 3% proving fatal. In 2022 alone, more than 76,000 people were injured, and over 5,300 fatalities were recorded across the United States. The majority of these casualties were occupants of other vehicles, highlighting the vulnerability of smaller cars in such collisions.

Why These Accidents Keep Happening

While truck drivers and companies are subject to numerous regulations aimed at ensuring safety and compliance, enforcement remains a significant challenge in the industry. Limited resources within regulatory agencies and understaffed personnel severely restrict the ability to monitor compliance effectively. Logistical difficulties, such as the vastness of the road networks and the high volume of trucks on the highways, further complicate oversight efforts. This enforcement gap allows some drivers and companies to bypass important regulations and contributes to the persistence of truck accidents.

Legal Recourse for Victims

For those affected by trucking accidents, understanding their legal options is crucial. In instances where a truck accident results in injury, victims can file an injury claim against the responsible party. These claims cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Proving negligence is key to a claim’s success, often requiring evidence of regulatory violations or misconduct by the truck driver or company.

In cases where a person is killed in a truck accident, the deceased’s family members may pursue wrongful death lawsuits. These suits aim to compensate for the emotional and financial impact of losing a loved one, covering funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Selecting the right legal counsel is critical in achieving a favorable outcome in any legal matter. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance, help navigate complex legal processes, and advocate effectively on your behalf.  

Let Us Help You Gain Clarity

While special laws are in place to prevent truck accidents, their effectiveness largely depends on compliance and enforcement. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, truck accidents remain far too common. If you or a loved one has been affected by such an incident, you must seek legal counsel to find closure. Our attorneys at Arshad, Pangere & Warring, LLP can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today, and let us be your advocate for justice and safety on the roads.