Every driver on the road has rule and regulations they must follow. Those who are on the road for work purposes have additional rules they must follow. These are intended to keep everyone safe on the road. Unfortunately, not every professional driver follows them. Read on to learn more about the rules that govern truck and bus drivers and then reach out to Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 if you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle.
There are rules to protect the roads from tired truck drivers
One of the main causes of accidents for anyone – including truck and bus drivers – is being tired behind the wheel. This is why there are laws that prohibit a driver who’s either ill or tired from operating any type of commercial vehicle. They are required by law to pull over if they’re impaired in any way, including fatigue and illness.
Of course, that rule is very vague, which is why there are more specific laws. They inform the number of hours a commercial driver is able to drive at a time. Many factors affect the number, including what type of vehicle the person is driving (i.e. carrying passengers or cargo). If a commercial driver doesn’t follow these rules and it results in an accident, then a personal injury attorney can make sure that the driver and / or their employer is held liable.
Trucks may have their own speed limits
Another main cause of accidents for commercial vehicles is speeding. This is why they are prohibited from driving even a mile over the posted speed limit. If they were going faster and there was an accident, then they can be held responsible. In some areas of the state, trucks have a speed limit that’s ten miles slower than a typical driver.
Trucks must meet standards for securing their cargo
Have you ever driven behind a large truck that had cargo that just didn’t seem to be tied down very well? This is actually against the law. In fact, large trucks and drivers of buses first and foremost can’t drive their vehicle at all unless it’s been carefully inspected, the cargo has been deemed properly distributed, and it’s completely secure on the truck.
In the event a driver doesn’t take this seriously and their cargo spills onto the road, that driver (or their company) can be held responsible for injuries the spill caused as well as property damage. This isn’t as common as many people assume but when it does happen, it can be deadly.
Have you been injured in an accident with a truck or bus?
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial truck or bus then you should speak to a personal injury attorney. At Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas, we’re happy to offer a free case evaluation. During this consultation, we’ll review the basics of your case and let you know what your options are. There’s no cost and there’s no risk. Call us today to get the facts on your case.
