Large trucks travel on the same roads as our cars. But these trucks are much bigger and heavier. So, whenever accidents take place, including truck accidents, things can become very intense. Any time an accident occurs with a large truck, it can be a dramatic nightmare. There could be significant consequences and serious injury. These situations include a lot of monetary complications, not only injuries. If you are involved in a trucking accident, there is also an opportunity where you file a suit against the truck company. The trucking companies should adhere to this regulation. In this article, we will go through the exact role the Trucking Company Regulations play in your accident claim and when you need the help of a truck accident lawyer in Des Moines.
What Are Trucking Company Regulations?
Federal trucking regulations consist of various regulations revolving around ideal truck movements. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration mainly sets these regulations. Most of these rules apply to both the truck owners and the drivers, helping ensure that they will drive safely. These regulations cover areas such as the maximum hours of operation for a truck driver, requirements for the maintenance of the trucks, and the legal weight allowable limit for the trucks.
For example, the rights of truck drivers and others mean that they cannot drive for longer than 11 hours at a time without a long rest in between. They also have to rest for a distance equivalent to eight hours of driving before proceeding with the journey. There is also the need to ensure that the trucks are in good working condition, which requires periodic inspection.
How Do These Regulations Affect Truck Accidents?
The vast majority of road truck-related mishaps occur due to negligence of the rules of either the truck driver or the company operating the truck. Suppose a truck driver gets tired due to the continuous operation of the truck for several hours. Then, he is likely to make a mistake that can result in the deaths of others. Sometimes, for a truck, a breakdown on the road due to lack of maintenance can lead to an accident. It has often been found that truck companies do not pay much attention to the overall maintenance of the trucks. This can lead to unfortunate situations.
When any accident happens or something goes wrong, investigators will look to check whether or not their conduct violated those rules. There was negligence somewhere. Perhaps the trucking company or the driver violated the regulations, which could have been their fault. Everything is checked in detail to ensure that there is no bias in the verdicts given.
Who Is Mainly Responsible for a Truck Accident?
The trucking company is responsible for accidents at various times. They must ensure that the trucks and drivers comply with all the safety rules for the transport business.
If a trucking company hires untrained drivers, they are responsible for accidents. In some remote places, it has been noticed that underage drivers are driving the trucks. Sometimes, the drivers are not even aware of the proper highway rules. Mistakes like these should be strictly avoided. If they don’t maintain their trucks, they are at fault.
A truck driver can be blamed if careless. This includes driving under alcohol or drugs. The trucking company is usually also responsible.
What Can You Get If You Win?
You can get money for medical bills. You can get money for lost wages. You can get money for pain and suffering. If a loved one dies, you can get funeral costs.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
A lawyer can clarify your legal rights after an accident. They can prove the company broke the rules. They can also negotiate with the insurance company.
Conclusion
In truck accidents, both the driver and company can be responsible. Knowing your rights is important. A lawyer can help you get what you deserve. They can explain the rules and handle the insurance. Getting the right help makes a big difference in your claim.