An accident caused by a large commercial vehicle is overwhelming and incredibly stressful, at best. At its worst, trucking accidents can lead to a lifetime of incapacity, pain and suffering, or even death. Sadly, far too many trucking accidents could have been prevented. When the trucking accident is caused because of a truck driver’s negligence, he or she can be held accountable for the damages caused to the victim.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were approximately 4,000 people killed and 111,000 people who suffered injuries as a result of a large commercial trucking accident in 2014. A majority of the casualties and injuries occurred in occupants of the other automobiles involved, at 73% as 74% respectively. Additionally, close to 80% of fatal truck accidents occurred during the week and about 71% occurred in daytime hours. From 2009 to 2013, the State of California averaged approximately 300 fatalities and about 7,000 injuries as a result of trucking accidents.
Trucking Industry Compliance to Strict Rules and Regulations
The trucking industry is one of the most heavily regulated industries in the state. Commercial truck companies that operate in the State of California will need to adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as well as the Department of Transportation (DOT).
According to the federal law 49 CFR Part 391/383 of the FMCSR, truck drivers involved in interstate commerce will need to obtain verification of their physical ability to operate their vehicles. Driver qualification is necessary for new hires as well as drivers seeking to maintain their criterion. Under the Department of Motor Transportation, truckers will need to have a physical examination before being able to operate their vehicle. They will also need to do this every 24 months when in operation.
Accidents Caused As a Result of Negligence
Although the trucking industry is strictly regulated, truck drivers are constantly being pressured to make deliveries as quickly as possible. Although this does not necessarily mean truck drivers will operate their vehicles at excessive speeds, this can lead to driver fatigue, as drivers will work for many hours without taking a break in order to reach their destinations faster.
In many cases, however, the truck driver is not responsible for causing the accident. Instead, the responsibility of an accident will lie with the company that has employed the truck driver. A trucking company is responsible for ensuring the vehicle complies with truck inspection guidelines and other safety measures. When a truck is not adequately maintained, the trucking company can be held accountable for any injuries caused by the truck accident.
Following a Trucking Accident, Obtain the Legal Support of a Skilled Personal Injury Attorney
Traffic accidents involving large commercial vehicles can result in challenging claims. In order to demonstrate that the truck driver or the company that employs him or she was negligent in causing the accident, it is necessary to demonstrate that they violated a trucking regulation.
If you have been injured in an accident involving a large commercial truck, you should take immediate action and seek proficient legal counsel. The process of collecting important evidence demands swift action; obtain the support of a law firm who can help you build a strong case.
With more than a decade of experience handling the most complex personal injury cases, the attorneys at Martinez & Schill, LLP are skilled in truck accident cases. After a serious trucking accident, the attorneys at Martinez & Schill, LLP help their clients negotiate for the compensation they truly deserve. Obtain a no-obligation consultation by contacting the law firm today.