Federal Trucking Laws

    SARASOTA, FL, March 01, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Victims of truck accidents often find themselves mired in a frustrating and complex legal process when trying to seek compensation.

Part of this has to do with the number of parties that may be held accountable in a truck accident. The driver, the trucking company, the personnel who loaded the trailer, and even truck part manufacturers can be held responsible for damages in a truck accident depending on the circumstances.

When you hire a truck accident attorney, one of the first things he or she will look for is potential violations of federal trucking laws. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for creating and enforcing the laws that govern interstate trucking.

When these laws are violated, you may be able to hold both a driver and the company he works for responsible. Due to the complex nature of these cases and the myriad state and federal laws involved, it is always in your best interest to have an experienced truck accident attorney on your side when you are injured in a semi-truck accident.

The Basics of Federal Trucking Laws

There are literally hundreds of laws that govern interstate trucking. When you are injured in a truck accident, some of the most common laws your attorney will look for to determine liability include:

- A truck driver must be at least 21 years old
- A truck driver may not operate his vehicle for more than 16 hours in any 24 hour period
- A truck driver must rest for at least 8 hours for every 16 hours spent on the road
- A truck driver must have successfully completed all required safety courses
- A truck driver must have a current commercial driver's license
- A truck driver must keep detailed record of vehicle maintenance
- The load being carried must be within the truck's towing capacity
- The load being carried must be within the trailer's holding capacity
- The load must be properly secured

Despite these regulations, there are still numerous truck accidents in the United States every year. These accidents account for around 90 percent of all fatalities in motor vehicle accidents and countless catastrophic personal injuries.

If you were injured in a truck accident, it's advisable to consult with a truck accident attorney who may be able to help you pursue financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

If you live in the Sarasota or Bradenton, Florida, areas and were injured in a truck accident, please visit the website of the truck accident attorneys at Luhrsen Law Group at www.luhrsen.com.

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