Truck accidents are often more complicated than typical vehicle accidents due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. When it comes to pursuing compensation for damages or injuries resulting from a truck accident, various federal regulations can play a significant role in how the case is handled. These regulations govern everything from driver qualifications to truck maintenance, and they can impact how liability is determined and how compensation is calculated in Pennsylvania.

Understanding the federal laws that affect truck accidents is crucial if you’ve been involved in one. Here’s a breakdown of how federal regulations can influence a truck accident claim in Pennsylvania.

Federal Regulations for Commercial Truck Drivers

One of the most important aspects of truck accident claims is understanding the regulations that commercial truck drivers must adhere to. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), sets these regulations.

Driver Hours of Service Rules

The FMCSA has strict rules regarding how long commercial truck drivers can be on the road. These are known as the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, and they are designed to reduce fatigue-related accidents by limiting the number of hours a driver can be behind the wheel.

Under HOS regulations, drivers are required to rest after a certain number of driving hours. For example, truck drivers can drive a maximum of 11 hours in a 14-hour workday but must take a 10-hour break afterward. These rules aim to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue.

If a truck accident occurs and the driver was in violation of these hours, it could significantly impact the claim. Evidence of a driver’s HOS violations could show negligence, and it could make the trucking company liable for the crash.

Driver Qualification Requirements

FMCSA also enforces rules regarding who is qualified to operate a commercial truck. This includes requirements such as passing medical exams, obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and maintaining a clean driving record. If a driver is not properly qualified or fails to meet these qualifications, it can be an important factor in a truck accident claim.

For example, if a driver had a history of violations or was operating the truck without a valid CDL, that could serve as evidence of negligence. Additionally, truckers are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing, both before and during their employment. A failure in this regard can also impact the liability of the driver and the company they work for.

Vehicle Maintenance Regulations

Another critical aspect of truck accident claims is the maintenance and condition of the truck involved. Federal regulations require trucking companies to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and safe for use. This includes regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs as outlined by the FMCSA.

The FMCSA mandates that commercial trucks be inspected regularly, and if an accident occurs due to a mechanical failure that was preventable with proper maintenance, the trucking company could be held responsible. For instance, if a tire blowout caused by neglected maintenance leads to an accident, the trucking company could be found negligent.

Vehicle Weight and Load Regulations

There are also federal regulations governing the weight of the cargo a truck can carry. Trucks that are overloaded or improperly loaded can be difficult to control and may be more likely to cause an accident. The weight limit for commercial trucks is set by the FMCSA and is enforced to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road.

If a truck involved in an accident was overloaded or improperly loaded, this could play a significant role in determining fault. In such cases, the trucking company or the shipper who loaded the cargo may be held liable for the crash.

The Role of Federal Regulations in Insurance and Liability

In Pennsylvania, as in other states, federal regulations can also influence how insurance claims are handled in truck accident cases. Trucking companies are required to carry a certain amount of insurance coverage, depending on the size of the truck and the nature of the cargo.

For example, a trucking company that operates interstate must maintain higher insurance coverage than a company that operates only within Pennsylvania. Federal regulations ensure that victims of truck accidents have access to sufficient compensation for their injuries. If a trucking company does not carry the required insurance, they could face penalties, and victims may need to pursue other avenues for compensation.

Additionally, the federal government holds trucking companies accountable for following regulations, and violations of these regulations can play a key role in determining liability. If a trucking company has been cited for violating federal regulations in the past, this history can support claims of negligence.

The Impact of Federal Regulations on Investigation and Evidence

When a truck accident occurs, investigators often look to the federal regulations to help determine what went wrong. This can involve a detailed inspection of the truck, the driver’s logs, and the trucking company’s records.

For example, the truck’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records can show whether the driver was in compliance with the HOS regulations. Similarly, vehicle inspection reports can reveal if the truck was properly maintained and if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure that the company failed to address.

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain certain records, and these records can be crucial in proving liability. Working with a lawyer who understands these regulations can help ensure that all necessary evidence is collected and properly presented during your case.

How Federal Regulations Affect the Outcome of a Truck Accident Claim

When you file a truck accident claim in Pennsylvania, the presence or absence of federal regulation violations can have a significant impact on the outcome. If the driver, trucking company, or both are found to be in violation of FMCSA regulations, they may be held responsible for the accident. This can increase your chances of receiving full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

However, even if violations of federal regulations are not immediately apparent, a skilled lawyer can still use the law to build a strong case. Federal regulations provide a framework for determining negligence and liability, and knowing how to navigate them can make a difference in the outcome of your case.

Conclusion

Given the complexity of truck accident claims, it’s crucial to work with a lawyer who understands the federal regulations that apply. At Kingbird Legal, we are well-versed in both Pennsylvania state laws and federal laws governing commercial trucks. Our team has the experience needed to investigate the cause of the accident, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Pennsylvania, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you understand your options moving forward. Let us guide you through the legal process and work to get you the justice you deserve. Contact Kingbird Legal today to schedule a consultation.