How Do Regulations Hold Commercial Vehicles at a Higher Standard than Other Vehicles?

The sheer size of many commercial vehicles dwarfs passenger cars, which is why motorists and passengers often suffer serious injuries in a crash with a commercial vehicle. When you suffer a serious injury, recovering compensation can be vital for offsetting medical expenses and damages. You need the skills of an experienced Jacksonville personal injury lawyer who understands the regulations commercial drivers must adhere to and can recognize violations and other factors that point to negligence. Proving negligence is crucial for recovering compensation from insurance carriers that represent trucking and other transportation companies.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has the job of preventing commercial vehicle accident fatalities and injuries. Consequently, the FMCSA ensures safety through numerous rules and regulations that commercial drivers and transportation companies must follow. Any vehicle weighing 10,001 pounds or more meets the definition of a commercial vehicle, as do vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Most buses and medium-sized to large semi trucks are commercial vehicles and therefore must adhere to hours of service rules. While one of many regulations, hours of service regulations are essential because they prevent commercial drivers from becoming fatigued and prone to causing accidents. Hours of service rules set requirements for breaks, limit the number of consecutive hours and days that commercial vehicle operators can drive and impose penalties for violations.

A commercial vehicle liability lawyer in Jacksonville investigates accidents for hours of service and other FMCSA violations when preparing a case to hold a transportation company or commercial driver accountable.

The Gillette Law Firm has an in-depth knowledge of commercial transportation regulations and applies effective strategies to help clients recover compensation.