Ocala Truck Maintenance Safety Regulations Attorneys
Semi trucks go through heavy-duty use. They are driven hundreds of miles a day, possibly six or seven days a week. Because of this, they need to be properly maintained. The owners of commercial trucks are required to perform maintenance and repair of the vehicles they put on the road, per state and federal laws. Unfortunately, many trucking companies do not follow these laws, putting everyone on the road at risk. If you were injured in an accident caused by an unsafe semi truck, file a claim with an Ocala truck maintenance safety regulations attorney today.
What Trucking Companies are Required to Do
Trucking companies have a huge responsibility when it comes to safety. They must comply with federal laws, which require trucking companies to properly inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control. All truck parts and accessories must be in safe operating condition at all times. This includes the frame, frame assemblies, suspension systems, steering systems, axles, wheels, and rims.
Trucking companies are also required to maintain records for each vehicle for 30 days. These records must identify the vehicle, the deadline for inspections and maintenance, and the results of inspections and maintenance. They must also comply with safety standards for speed-limiting devices, electronic onboard recorders, and underride guides.
What Truck Drivers Must Do
Commercial truck drivers are responsible for conducting their own vehicle inspections before driving a truck. They should inform their employers of any issues that should be fixed. Their inspections should include checking various parts of the truck, including:
- Brakes
- Mirrors
- Horn
- Windshield wipers
- Headlights
- Warning lights
- Turn signals and flashers
- Emergency equipment
- System gauges
- Heater and defroster
- Underride protection
- Tires and wheels
- Clutch and transmission
- Steering
- Cargo securing devices
What Happens Next?
If you were injured in an accident caused by an unsafe semi truck that lacked proper maintenance, seek legal help right away. You can receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income, vehicle damage, pain and suffering, and other damages.
However, proving that a semi truck was poorly maintained is not an easy task. The trucking company will not admit that there was an issue involved, so you will need to hire a attorney who has the resources to pursue an investigation. An experienced truck accident attorney can review logs and maintenance records to see if the truck had any issues in the past or if there were any issues that were not repaired. Trucking industry experts may also be brought in to prove claims.
Contact an Ocala Truck Maintenance Safety Regulations Attorney Today
Inadequate maintenance can lead to serious accidents. If a semi truck was not meeting safety regulations at the time of a crash, then the trucking company (and possibly other parties) can be held liable.
Were you involved in such a crash? If so, the personal injury attorneys at Meldon Law can help. We know truck accident cases can be complex. Our aggressive team can help. Schedule a free consultation with an Ocala truck maintenance safety regulations attorney today by calling (800) 373-3000.
