Commercial truck accidents are among the most catastrophic types of motor vehicle collisions, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. In Colorado, with its bustling highways and extensive freight traffic, these accidents can have devastating consequences.
Many truck accidents are preventable and occur due to violations of federal regulations designed to ensure road safety. Understanding these violations can help victims hold negligent parties accountable and seek the compensation they deserve.
Here, our Denver personal injury attorneys at Donaldson Law explain.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces comprehensive regulations that govern the trucking industry. These Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) are designed to promote safety, prevent accidents, and minimize risks associated with commercial trucking. However, when trucking companies or drivers fail to adhere to these regulations, the results can be catastrophic.
Common federal regulations violations leading to accidents in Denver and nationwide include:
- Hours of Service (HOS) Violations
Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Drivers must take mandatory breaks and adhere to strict rest periods between shifts. However, some drivers or companies violate these rules by pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to fatigue, impaired judgment, and increased risk of accidents.
Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure their safety. FMCSRs mandate pre-trip inspections and ongoing maintenance checks. Common maintenance failures include worn brakes, defective tires, and malfunctioning lights. Neglecting these requirements can lead to mechanical failures, making trucks a danger to other motorists.
Federal regulations specify weight limits and proper cargo securing methods to prevent overloading and shifting cargo. When companies exceed these limits or fail to secure loads correctly, the risk of rollovers, jackknifing, and cargo spills increases, endangering everyone on the road.
FMCSRs require commercial truck drivers to hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and undergo proper training. Employing unqualified or inadequately trained drivers can lead to accidents due to a lack of skill or knowledge in handling large vehicles under varying road and weather conditions.
Federal regulations prohibit truck drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Despite mandatory testing requirements, violations still occur. Impaired driving dramatically increases the likelihood of collisions.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Colorado Commercial Truck Accidents, Injuries & Fatalities
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, and vehicle maintenance providers. When federal regulations are violated, determining liability can be complex.
For example:
- If a driver falsifies logbooks to exceed HOS limits, the driver and the trucking company may be held accountable.
- If a mechanical failure caused by inadequate maintenance leads to an accident, the maintenance provider or trucking company may share liability.
How Donaldson Law Can Help
At Donaldson Law, LLC, our experienced Denver commercial truck accident attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and the role of federal regulations in ensuring safety. We work diligently to investigate accidents, uncover evidence of regulatory violations, and build strong cases to help victims recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Colorado, don’t face the aftermath alone. Call (720) 487-1354 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.