Many motorists are unaware that people who operate large commercial vehicles have far more strict rules regarding how they operate their vehicles than those that apply to other vehicles. For anyone injured in an accident with a commercial vehicle, recognizing whether the commercial truck driver or their company committed any rule violations can help them pursue justice.
Truck Driver Rules and Regulations
The operation of a commercial vehicle is strictly guided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which establishes various requirements for truck drivers. These rules include the following.
Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations
Truck drivers must comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, which limit driving hours to prevent fatigue. Typically, they can drive a maximum of 11 hours after ten consecutive off-duty hours with a required 30-minute break after eight consecutive hours of driving.
Commercial Truck Standards
Truck drivers must regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles to ensure optimal performance and safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces pre-trip and post-trip inspections, requiring drivers to inspect vital components like brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels. These inspections assist truck drivers and companies in identifying and resolving potential issues proactively before they escalate into significant problems.
CDL Requirements
Truck drivers need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which involves rigorous testing and training. This process includes written exams and practical driving tests to ensure drivers are knowledgeable about road safety regulations and proficient in operating large vehicles. Additionally, ongoing education and periodic re-certification may be required to keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.
Maximum Allowable Weight Limits
Commercial trucks face strict weight limits to prevent road damage and help keep roads safe. The three weight groups include Gross Combination Weight Ratings of:
- Group A– 26,001 pounds or more when the towed vehicles exceed 10,000 pounds.
- Group B – 26,001 pounds or more when the towed vehicle does not exceed 10,000 pounds.
- Group C – Any weight combination in Group A or Group B when transporting hazardous materials or 16 or more passengers.
Truck drivers who operate vehicles that exceed the weight requirements can face significant fines and penalties.
Safety Protocols for Cargo
Safely loading and securing cargo is critical for truck drivers. Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, leading to accidents.
Mandatory Testing for Truck Drivers
Truck drivers are required to undergo routine drug and alcohol testing to verify their fitness for driving. These tests include pre-employment, random, and after-accident testing. It is also important to note that the blood alcohol limits for commercial vehicles are much lower than those for other drivers. A driver typically has a legal limit of 0.08 percent. However, people operating commercial vehicles must maintain a blood alcohol content level of 0.04 or less.
Required Equipment for Trucks
Trucks must be equipped with advanced safety features, such as electronic logging devices and automatic braking systems. These technologies help prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations.
Legal Consequences and Penalties
Truck drivers face severe penalties for violating regulations, including significant fines and the potential loss of their CDL. Apart from facing financial and professional repercussions, failure to comply could lead to higher insurance costs and potential legal consequences. Repeat offenders may face even harsher consequences, such as longer suspensions or permanent revocation of their CDL. Truck drivers must follow these regulations to maintain their livelihood and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Call Our North Dakota Truck Accident Lawyers Today
The rules and regulations that apply to commercial truck drivers are designed to ensure road safety for all people who share the road. If you are injured in an accident with a commercial vehicle, these rules and regulations may play a critical role in your ability to recover compensation from the driver. It is essential to contact our North Dakota truck accident lawyers at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., for a consultation to discuss your rights and legal options.
