Trucking Accident Lawyer
Navigating the Complexities of Trucking Accident Claims
Understanding Trucking Accident Law, Your Rights, and Federal Regulations.
Trucking accidents are among the most devastating motor vehicle collisions, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the federal regulations governing the trucking industry is crucial for both accident prevention and building a strong legal case.
Trucking accident law addresses the legal framework governing collisions involving commercial trucks, semi-trailers, and other large commercial vehicles. These cases are distinct from standard car accidents due to the presence of industry-specific regulations, multiple potentially liable parties, and often more serious injuries. Trucking accident claims may involve drivers, trucking companies, third-party maintenance providers, and manufacturers, each of whom may bear partial or full responsibility. At Garrison Law Firm, we are committed to helping clients understand their rights under the law and pursue just compensation.
What Makes Trucking Accidents Unique
- Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, causing catastrophic damage in a collision.
- Victims often face serious injuries, extensive medical bills, and long-term recovery.
- Multiple parties may be liable, including the driver, trucking company, and maintenance providers.
Federal Regulations Governing Trucking
The trucking industry in the United States is heavily regulated to protect public safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the primary federal agency responsible for setting and enforcing these rules.
KeyFederal Trucking Regulations
|
Regulation Area |
Description |
|
Hours of Service (HOS) |
Limits driving to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty; no driving beyond 14 hours. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are required to ensure compliance. |
|
Drug & Alcohol Testing |
Mandatory pre-employment, random, and post-accident testing. BAC limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%. |
|
Vehicle Maintenance |
Trucks must undergo regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs. Records must be kept and available for review. |
|
Driver Qualifications |
Drivers must have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and meet strict medical and background standards. |
|
Weight Limits |
Strict federal weight limits prevent overloading, which can make trucks harder to control and stop. |
|
Insurance Requirements |
Trucking companies must carry minimum liability insurance, typically at least $750,000, with higher amounts for hazardous materials. |
|
Accident Recordkeeping |
Carriers must maintain accident registers and cooperate with investigations as required by 49 CFR § 390.15. |
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Trucking accidents frequently occur due to negligence, whether on the part of the driver, the carrier, or another responsible party. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
These factors can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident and the resulting harm. Garrison Law Firm works to identify the root cause of the collision and build a strong case for liability. Our goal is to secure full and fair compensation so you can focus on recovery without financial uncertainty.
Common Injuries from Truck Accidents
Due to the significant size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions with passenger vehicles often lead to severe, life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Neck and back injuries
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Amputations
- Disfigurement
In the most tragic cases, truck accidents result in fatalities. Thousands of individuals lose their lives each year in accidents involving large trucks. If you or a family member has been seriously injured or killed in such an accident, it is essential to consult legal counsel who understands the specific complexities of trucking litigation. Effective representation can be instrumental in both physical and financial recovery.
Legal and Insurance Challenges in Trucking Accidents
Federal trucking regulations are complex, and trucking companies may attempt to obscure violations. An experienced personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident for regulatory breaches.
- Secure and analyze critical evidence (ELD data, maintenance records, etc.).
- Hold all responsible parties accountable for your injuries and losses.
The insurance claims process in trucking accidents can be particularly challenging. Commercial carriers typically hold high-limit insurance policies, and their insurers often engage aggressively in claim disputes. Successfully navigating this landscape requires detailed documentation of injuries, damages, and long-term impacts. At Garrison Law Firm, we conduct comprehensive investigations, consult appropriate professionals when necessary, and prepare strong claims that account for both economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Long-term rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages (when applicable)
The Importance of Skilled Legal Representation
Trucking accident claims are complex and often involve significant resistance from well-resourced defendants and their insurers. An attorney with a strong understanding of trucking-related laws and litigation strategies can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case. Garrison Law Firm is committed to providing thorough, strategic representation to individuals and families impacted by commercial vehicle collisions.
Injured in a Trucking Accident? Garrison Law Firm Is Here to Help You Move Forward
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, contact Garrison Law Firm at (623) 915-1100 or submit an inquiry through our online form to schedule a free consultation. We are here to manage the legal complexities so you can prioritize your recovery.