Truck drivers, because they operate larger vehicles that can pose more of a danger to others around them on the road, must often meet more stringent safety standards and requirements than the average truck driver. Federal trucking laws in Marion do not just govern the behaviors a truck driver can and cannot engage in. They also help keep other drivers on the road safe. If you suffered injuries in an accident with a truck driver who breached one of these essential requirements, the dedicated truck accident attorneys at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda could help you file a claim for compensation.
Hours of Service
The hours of service regulation is one of the most important federal trucking laws in Marion. Truck drivers can only drive for a maximum of 11 hours in a 14-hour shift. After that, they have to take 10 consecutive hours off before they can get back behind the wheel. While there are some exceptions, including short-haul trips that should allow the truck driver to get home at the end of the day, these regulations prove essential to eliminating distracted or drowsy driving and avoiding accidents.
In addition to sticking to their hours of service, drivers must keep logbooks in which they record the hours they have spent on the road and any breaks. These logbooks can be either electronic or paper; however, most modern carriers have transitioned to an electronic system.
Blood Alcohol Content
Drivers of passenger vehicles break the law when they have a blood alcohol content of .08%. However, for truck drivers traveling through Marion, that limit is much lower: truck drivers are guilty of driving while intoxicated with a BAC of just .04%
Vehicle Inspections
Before and after each trip, drivers must conduct an inspection of their vehicle and identify any potential problems, including damage to the vehicle. If the truck is not in a safe operating condition, drivers should not accept the responsibility of getting on the road in that vehicle.
In addition to inspection requirements, Marion truck owners must meet federal requirements for maintenance and repairs, including replacing or repairing damaged parts, in order to remain in compliance with the law.
Marking Requirements
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, trucks operating in Marion must be marked with a legal name or a single trade name of a business entity that controls operations for that truck. For interstate drivers, trucks must also have the USDOT number displayed, which may make it easier for other drivers to report erratic or dangerous behavior displayed by truck drivers on the road.
Transporting Hazardous Materials
Truck drivers who transport hazardous materials must have a Hazmat endorsement on their license, along with a valid CDL. These drivers receive additional safety training on how to transport or handle hazardous substances. In addition, vehicles with hazardous substances on board must have shipping papers indicating what is being transported and placards on all four sides of the vehicle showing that the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials.
Discuss Federal Trucking Laws in Marion and Your Case With a Lawyer
If you were involved in an accident with a truck driver that you believe violated federal trucking laws in Marion, a lawyer could help you assess what breach the driver committed and how it may impact your right to compensation. Contact Whetstone Perkins & Fulda to discuss your truck accident claim and the driver’s irresponsible actions during a free consultation.
