El Paso 18 Wheeler Collisions Caused by Trucking Regulation Violations

If an El Paso trucking accident injured you, you are likely feeling the pressure of medical bills, vehicle repair bills, and the possibility of lost wages. A lawsuit may be your best chance to recoup those losses. Carabin Shaw employs several El Paso trucking accident lawyers with extensive experience with cases like yours. Contact us today to begin your financial recovery.

El Paso 18 wheeler collisions caused by trucking regulation violations are unfortunately frequent. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Texas is the most dangerous state for commercial vehicle-involved accidents. Regulations cover everything from the tests that the commercial driver must pass to the daily hours that they are allowed to drive. They exist to protect everyone on the road, including truckers themselves. Breaking these rules can result in severe consequences, as well as a serious liability. If you were in an accident with a commercial driver who violated any regulations, El Paso personal injury lawyers could help with your case.

Truck drivers are not permitted to drive more than 11 hours in a single day and must take breaks of at least 10 hours between shifts. Driving while exhausted, like drunk driving, is majorly negligent and is dangerous to everyone on the road. Your lawyer will likely ask to see the driver’s records; failure to properly keep these records is a violation itself.

Commercial drivers must repeat their training and undergo a physical examination every two years to make sure that they are still fit for their job. If they or their employer fail to keep up on these requirements, they are acting negligently, allowing a potentially unfit driver on the road. An attorney will probably request proof that the driver involved in your collision was up-to-date on these requirements. If a negligent or noncompliant truck struck you, reach out to El Paso trucking accident lawyers to represent you, as you likely have a strong case for a lawsuit.

Trucking regulations do not only apply to the operation of the vehicle. The government also strictly regulates the upkeep and labeling of trucks themselves, and violating these regulations is no less dangerous.

Trucks carrying heavy cargo (for example, other vehicles) are required to secure that cargo safely to prevent it from falling off and potentially causing accidents. At least four separate tie-downs must secure heavy cargo, and each must be able to support a load of 5,000 pounds. Heavier loads may require more tie-downs. Additionally, all commercial vehicles must display their identifying information, including the U.S. Department of Transportation identification number and any required hazardous material markings. Failing to secure cargo properly or to display the required information is a federal violation and significantly increases liability. If you were in an accident with a truck that failed to meet either of these standards, contact a semi-truck accident attorney in El Paso about a lawsuit.

Commercial drivers, by definition, drive not for themselves but for the companies that hire them. Thus, you will likely direct your suit toward the company, which probably retains corporate lawyers expressly to defend themselves in these cases. When looking for El Paso personal injury lawyers, prioritize attorneys with experience with cases like yours so that they can ably oppose these corporate representatives.

Carabin Shaw employs several personal injury attorneys with decades of combined experience representing victims of trucking accidents. If you have been the victim of one and want to begin your financial recovery, contact our El Paso office today at 915-779-2301. You can also reach us toll-free at 1-800-862-1260.