Every day, 18-wheelers barrel down our nation’s highways, carrying with them the potential for disaster. When truck drivers violate the rules and regulations put in place by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), they jeopardize not only their safety but also the safety of everyone else on the road.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry and ensures that truck drivers adhere to strict rules and regulations. These regulations are in place for a reason—to protect truck drivers and those who share the road with them. Accidents and fatalities become much more probable when these regulations get broken.

The Consequences of Trucking Violations

Trucking violations can have devastating consequences. In 2018, 4,951 people lost their lives in commercial trucking accidents, and an additional 151,000 suffered severe injuries. That same year, 531,000 commercial trucks, big rigs, and semi-trucks got into a police-reported crash. Driver error caused many of these trucking accidents.

When truck drivers violate FMCSA regulations—whether by driving too many hours without rest or failing to inspect their vehicles properly—they put themselves and others at risk.

In addition to causing accidents, violations can lead to significant fines and a loss of commercial driving privileges. Driving impaired can result in the complete loss of their commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Not all trucking violations are created equal, however. Some offenses—such as distracted driving—are considered “major” violations, while others—such as failing to wear a seatbelt—are considered “minor.” Significant violations can result in a CDL suspension of up to one year, while minor violations generally result in fines. Either way, truck drivers need to adhere to all FMCSA regulations to avoid putting themselves and others in danger.

What Are the Most Common FMCSA Violations?

There are many different FMCSA violations that truck drivers can commit, but some of the most common include the following:

Speeding: Truck drivers may feel tempted to speed to make deliveries on time. However, speeding is extremely dangerous, not only for the driver but also for everyone else on the road.

Driving while fatigued: Truck drivers have strict hours-of-service regulations that they must follow to prevent fatigue. When truck drivers violate these regulations, it puts everyone at risk.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours of service regulations help truck drivers get the rest they need to stay safe on the road. The regulations limit the number of hours a driver can drive in a day and the number of hours a driver can be on duty in a week.

The law requires truck drivers to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours of rest. Drivers cannot drive more than 14 consecutive hours while on duty. After 8 hours on the road, all truck drivers must take a 30-minute rest break. These laws help protect everyone on the road.

The FMCSA hours of service regulations are necessary because fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents involving large trucks. When drivers are tired, they are more likely to make mistakes that can lead to accidents. By requiring drivers to get the rest they need, the regulations help to reduce the risk of accidents.

Improper lane changes: Making sudden or improper lane changes is dangerous for any driver, but it can be especially hazardous for truckers because of their large size and limited visibility. If a truck driver makes an improper lane change, it could result in a devastating accident.

Impaired driving: Truck drivers may drive their big rigs under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some may try prescription and illegal substances to stay awake while driving or combat the road’s loneliness. Truckers who drive impaired represent a danger to themselves and others on the road. Impaired driving can result in serious injuries or even death for other motorists or pedestrians.

These are just a few examples of common FMCSA violations. If you see a truck driver breaking any of these rules, it’s important to report it immediately. Remember, violating FMCSA regulations endangers everyone on the road—not just the truck driver.

Contact Our Helena Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or someone you love suffered an injury in a truck accident in Montana, you need an experienced law firm on your side. Our team of experienced Helena truck accident lawyers will go to work immediately to determine if the truck driver violated the FMCSA rules and regulations. We will identify all liable parties and help you seek justice.

At Doubek, Pyfer & Storrar, we will work tirelessly to obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. To learn more about your legal options, you can fill out a contact form on our website, and we can contact you.