(512) 883-0277 
Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys know that 18-wheeler accidents are inherently catastrophic due to the sheer size and weight of these massive vehicles, which can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded.
The impact of a collision between an 18-wheeler and a smaller vehicle often results in devastating consequences, including severe injuries or fatalities, because the force exerted in such crashes is exponentially more significant than in typical car accidents.
Large blind spots, longer stopping distances, and the potential for mechanical failures in these trucks also contribute to the heightened risk. Additionally, accidents involving 18-wheelers frequently lead to multi-vehicle collisions, further increasing the potential for widespread damage and catastrophic outcomes. Unfortunately, most semi-truck accidents, especially those involving trucking regulation violations, can be prevented.
Texas trucking companies and drivers must comply with federal regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state-specific laws. These regulations govern driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and more, which play a crucial role in determining liability in truck accident claims.
Here, we discuss why that is true and how we can help pursue your truck accident claim by investigating the potential violations that led to your injuries or the loss of your loved one.
What are the Most Commonly Violated Trucking Regulations in Texas?
Trucking regulations are often violated despite the significant consequences because of the intense pressure on drivers and companies to meet tight delivery schedules, maximize profits, and minimize operational costs.
Many trucking companies push drivers to work beyond regulated hours or cut corners on vehicle maintenance to increase efficiency, even though it compromises safety. Some drivers may feel incentivized to break the rules to meet unrealistic deadlines or earn bonuses based on mileage or delivery speed. In some cases, a lack of proper oversight or inadequate enforcement of regulations further contributes to these violations, as companies may gamble on avoiding penalties, even though the potential consequences can be catastrophic in the event of an accident.
Some of the most violated commercial vehicle regulations include, but are not limited to:
- Driver Qualification Standards: Texas trucking regulations require drivers to meet specific qualification standards, including valid commercial driver’s licenses(CDL) and passing background checks. If a driver in an accident does not meet these standards, it can strengthen a victim’s case for compensation.
- Hours-of-Service Rules: Truck drivers in Texas are subject to hours-of-service rules that limit the number of hours they can drive without rest. If a truck driver violates these regulations and causes an accident due to fatigue, this can be used to establish negligence in a claim.
- Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections: Texas trucking companies are required to perform regular inspections and maintenance on their vehicles. If an accident occurs due to mechanical failure or improper vehicle maintenance, the trucking company could be liable for failing to keep its fleet safe.
- Cargo Loading and Weight Limits: Texas enforces regulations on how cargo must be loaded and secured, as well as strict weight limits for trucks. Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can lead to accidents, and if these regulations are violated, the trucking company or shipper could be held liable for the resulting injuries.
- Insurance Requirements: Texas has specific insurance requirements for commercial trucks, with minimum coverage limits depending on the cargo type being transported. Understanding these insurance limits is crucial for accident victims seeking compensation, as trucking companies typically carry higher insurance policies to cover potential damages.
Under Texas law, trucking companies may be held liable for the actions of their drivers if the driver was operating within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. This principle allows injured parties to pursue claims against the driver and the company.
Due to the severe nature of truck accidents and the strict regulations surrounding trucking, truck accident claims often result in higher damages than typical car accident claims. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages for egregious regulatory violations.
Violations of trucking regulations often play a crucial role in accident claims. Thorough investigations, including reviewing driver logs, maintenance records, and inspection reports, are critical to establishing negligence and holding the trucking company accountable for regulatory violations. We can help.
Contact Our Experienced Truck Accident and Injury Attorneys in Texas
If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-wheeler or another commercial vehicle accident in Texas caused by federal or state regulation violations, call our skilled Austin truck accident and injury attorneys at (512) 883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.
