The Most Common Trucking Industry Violations That Lead to Accidents

If there is one issue that has been a growing concern in Monroe, North Carolina, it is the rise of truck accidents. Most of the time, this is because of violations of trucking industry regulations.

You must have heard people talk about commercial vehicles frequently involved in serious crashes. And that’s completely true.

Recent data shows that across North Carolina, thousands of people suffer injuries from truck accidents each year, with fatal crashes remaining steady at around hundreds annually.

Monroe’s strategic location along major transportation routes makes the city particularly susceptible to such incidents.

Thus, there is a need for vigilant enforcement of trucking regulations and robust legal advocacy for affected individuals.

Many of these accidents can be traced back to violations within the trucking industry. For instance, common infractions include:

• Inadequate driver training and licensure.
• Operating under the influence of substances.
• Neglecting necessary vehicle inspections and maintenance.
• Exceeding legally mandated driving hours without proper rest.

These breaches not only compromise the safety of truck drivers but also pose severe risks to other road users.

For residents of Monroe affected by such incidents, seeking the counsel of a dedicated Monroe Truck Accident Legal Advocate is crucial to navigating the complexities of these cases and ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable.

Hi. In today’s blog, I will discuss some of the most common violations resulting from accidents. If you want to know how to avoid such things, keep reading this blog until the end, and thank me later!

Trucking Industry Regulations: Things That You Must Follow In The Industry

Several things must be maintained in the trucking industry. These rules and regulations play a very important role in ensuring the safety of drivers and other road users.

Some of these trucking industry regulations include:

• Hours of service
• Vehicle maintenance
• Electronic logging devices (ELDs)
• Handling of hazardous materials.

And just in case you were wondering, you can categorize these regulations into two major parts. These trucking industry regulations include:

1. Driver’s Qualification

• Age and Medical Fitness: According to the regulations of the trucking industry, you have to ensure that you specify the minimum age requirements. Apart from that, the truck driver must meet all the standards and fitness requirements.
• Licensing: It is a must for all truck drivers to have a CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, for the kind of vehicle they are using.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: Finally, all truck drivers, irrespective of their years of experience in the industry, have to pass the drug and alcohol testing. This helps to make sure that the drivers do not get into a DUI accident.

2. Hours of Service

• Driving Time Limits: In case you did not know, there is a time limit on the hours of service for drivers on the road. This helps to ensure that the drivers are fit and well-rested.
• Rest Breaks: While truck drivers must do their duty while on the road, under the regulations of the trucking industry, it is mandatory for them to rest and take breaks.
• Electronic Logging Devices: Finally, the ELD records the work hours of the drivers. This helps them sta compliant with the rules of the industry.

If truck drivers and trucking companies do not follow these, they might fall into accidents. But what are some factors related to violating these regulations that cause accidents?

Violation of Trucking Industry Regulations Causes Accidents

By now, you are aware that there are several rules that one must follow in the trucking industry. However, despite that, there are times when companies and truck drivers unknowingly break these rules, which can cause accidents.

Here are some of the things that cause truck accidents:

Driver Fatigue

Firstly, a tired driver is one of the most common reasons for truck accidents. Driving long periods without enough rest can impair judgment and slow reaction times.

There are rules to restrict driving hours, but many drivers break those limits to stay within tight time volumes. Moreover, such risky practice raises the chances of an accident, putting drivers and other road users at risk.

Compliance with rest requirements leads to fewer fatigue-related performance issues and improved safety and avoidance of post-truck accident situations.

Improper Maintenance

Secondly, trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they function well. However, neglect of this integral part can lead to mechanical failure, which is dangerous.

Most of the time, brake failure, tire bursts, and engine issues result from poor maintenance. If properly maintained through regular inspections and repairs, these problems do not need to happen, and a truck can stay roadworthy.

A consistent focus on maintenance can help trucking companies avoid accidents that stem from mechanical failures.

Overloading Trucks

Thirdly, overloading a truck is a common violation that is a significant safety concern. Excessive weight impairs a truck’s handling, braking efficiency, and stability. Additionally, this could create rollovers or loss of control, particularly in inclement weather.

Compliance with load regulations allows trucks to run within safe parameters, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents. Furthermore, ensuring a stable load on the road heavily influences weight distribution and cargo securing.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can create a serious problem for any other type of vehicle, but it is even worse for trucks.

Distractions are often caused by using a phone, eating, or tuning the radio. Due to the mass and weight of their trucks, these distractions can have even more disastrous results for truck drivers.

Discouraging this behavior, raising awareness about distracted driving, and implementing strict policies can mitigate this activity and help create safer roads for everyone.

Inadequate Training

Large vehicles require proper training, which helps them drive safely. Unfortunately, not enough instruction was given before some people took the road.

Inadequate training can lead to suboptimal decision-making and difficulty navigating complex situations.

Comprehensive training provides careful driving skills and prepares drivers for different situations on the road, reducing the risk of accidents.

Ongoing professional training and refresher classes help drivers stay informed of current best practices and regulations.

Speeding

The trucking industry is replete with violations; speeding is just one. Drivers are often seen speeding to meet delivery deadlines, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Driving over the speed limit impairs reaction to unexpected obstacles. It also increases collision impact severity.

Promoting adherence to speed limitations and using time management skills where applicable can reduce this risk and promote a safety-oriented culture in the industry.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a serious menace, as drivers can sometimes be drunk or under the influence of drugs.

Additionally, as drugs and alcohol affect the mind, reaction times can be delayed, which can lead to being in very hazardous situations.

Random testing and rigorous enforcement of zero-tolerance policies are critical to this effort. Therefore, addressing issues related to substance abuse and offering help can also create a safer work environment and result in a reduced number of accidents.

Disobeying Traffic Laws

Following traffic rules is crucial because it disciplines the road and provides safety. Unfortunately, not every driver follows these guidelines, leading to dangerous scenarios.

Common traffic violations, such as running red lights, improper lane changes, and tailgating, can lead to accidents.

Educating drivers about traffic laws and ensuring that they follow and constantly implement these regulations can create awareness among drivers and result in safe driving.

Wrapping It Up!

In conclusion, improving road safety is paramount in the trucking industry. And for that, one must follow the trucking industry regulations.

This step will help address these problems and avoid accidents in the future, resulting in a better and safer road for all users.

A culture of compliance and accountability will require cooperation from the drivers, the companies, and regulatory authorities.

Read Also:

• Benefits of Working With a Local Attorney for a Truck Accident Claim
• Truck Accident Attorneys and How They Can SAVE Your Case!
• How to Prove Liability in a Colorado Truck Accident Case