Truck accidents are particularly devastating due to the massive size and weight disparity between trucks and standard cars, leading to catastrophic injuries. As such, federal laws and industry regulations establish safety protocols throughout the trucking sector to prevent accidents. Please continue reading as we explore the regulations that govern the trucking industry, the appropriate actions to take if you are involved in a collision, and the importance of connecting with an experienced Prince George’s County Truck Accident Lawyer to pursue the justice you deserve. 

What Regulations Does the FMCSA Enforce for the Trucking Industry?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) enforce safety regulations for the trucking industry to ensure safe operation of commercial motor vehicles across the U.S. Key areas include:

  • Driver Qualifications
  • Hours of Service
  • Drug and Alcohol Testing
  • Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections
  • Cargo Securement
  • Hazardous Materials

Despite strict penalties for breaching state and federal trucking regulations, violations by truck drivers and companies still occur. Consequently, understanding these regulations is crucial, as it can be instrumental in establishing negligence in your legal case.

What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Truck Accident?

Unfortunately, accidents involving trucks can be devastating. In the chaos that follows, it’s easy to overlook some critical steps. However, it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to ensure your health and protect your legal rights.

First, you should seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Report the accident to emergency services by dialing 911 and inform the dispatcher of the nature and number of people involved. Prompt medical care can help prevent complications and ensure proper recovery. It can also provide documentation of your injuries, strengthening the link between the accident and your injuries, and can help demonstrate the severity of your injuries.

You should note that insurance companies and defense attorneys are adept at identifying weaknesses in your case to minimize or deny your claim. One of the most significant vulnerabilities they exploit is a delay in seeking medical attention. Failing to seek timely medical care can be seen as neglecting your responsibility to mitigate the extent of your injuries. Maryland is a contributory negligence state, which means that if you are even 1% at fault for the accident, you will face the absolute bar of recovery.

If you are physically capable, you should gather evidence from the scene of the accident. This includes photos, videos, witness information, police reports, and any other relevant details that can help you reconstruct the accident.

If you have been injured in a truck accident in Maryland, you need a qualified team of experienced attorneys to investigate your case. At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help you gather evidence to uncover any regulatory violations that may have contributed to or caused an accident. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.