In the trucking industry, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) implements trucking safety regulations via its Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) program. The FMCSA enforces trucking safety regulations to reduce the number of trucking accidents that occur as a result of negligence and driver error. There are numerous reasons why 18-wheeler truck accidents happen. However, they are most commonly caused when a commercial vehicle driver violates CSA trucking safety regulations. Truck accidents are particularly dangerous because of their enormous size and weight. Victims often sustain catastrophic and life-altering injuries. It is imperative for those that operate commercial vehicles to comply with the FMCSA’s safety regulations to prevent serious accidents and injuries. Please continue to follow along to learn what CSA safety violations most commonly cause 18-wheeler truck accidents. In addition, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our qualified Prince George’s County Truck Accident Attorneys who can help you navigate your legal options.
What truck safety violations most commonly cause 18-wheeler truck accidents?
The FMCSA designed the CSA program to decrease the number of accidents that occur when a commercial vehicle violates common traffic laws and trucking safety regulations. Those that operate commercial vehicles are required to obtain a specialized license. This is because large rigs are more challenging to operate than other vehicles because of their massive size and weight. Unfortunately, as a result of their enormous size, the outcome of a collision is often tragic. The most common trucking safety violations include but are not limited to the following:
- Speeding
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Improper lane changes
- Improper turns
- Tailgating
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Railroad grade crossing
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to obey a traffic control device
- Failure to wear a seat belt
- Failure to conduct a pre-trip truck inspection
- Failing to have proper placement of warning devices
To prevent serious accidents and injuries, commercial vehicle drivers are legally required to comply with trucking safety regulations.
What should I do if I’m injured?
If you are injured in an 18-wheeler truck accident, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Victims of truck accidents rarely walk away unscathed. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is critical to have your injuries examined and treated by a medical professional. Some injuries do not have immediate effects and are not visible. If left untreated these injuries could become life-threatening. After seeking medical attention, if possible, you should try to gather pertinent evidence at the scene of the accident. If you do decide to take legal action against a negligent party, this step will help you fulfill the burden of proof. This includes capturing pictures of the scene and collecting contact information from any witnesses. This type of evidence can help support your claim which can maximize your chances of recovering monetary compensation for your damages.
In the unfortunate event that you or someone you care about has been injured in a truck accident, speak with one of our seasoned attorneys. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve favorable results.
