Recent reports have uncovered serious problems with the trucking industry's current Electronic Logging Device (ELD) regulations. And now, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been directed to take action.
Investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board revealed that some trucking companies and drivers were exploiting gaps in ELD rules to avoid accurately recording their driving hours. This misuse of ELDs has led to increased risks of truck accidents caused by driver fatigue, as these drivers were often on the road longer than legally permitted.
Specifically, investigators found that false ELD records and truck driver fatigue were probable factors in a serious rear-end truck accident on I-64 in Virginia that killed three people.
In Texas, fatigue is among the factors being investigated in a recent fatal truck accident on US 75 in Collin County. According to media reports, traffic was at a standstill when a speeding truck failed to slow down and rear-ended a smaller vehicle, which burst into flames. All four occupants died.
Common tactics and loopholes trucking companies exploit
When trucking companies and drivers exploit loopholes, everyone on the road is at risk. The report's findings also highlight a broader problem in truck safety that can directly impact accident victims.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Texas, understanding the implications of these regulations can be crucial to your case. Deliberate negligence puts everyone else at greater risk, and when such negligence leads to truck accidents, victims and their loved ones deserve maximum compensation for their suffering and losses.
Here is more information from our Texas truck accident lawyers about common tactics and loopholes trucking companies use to cut corners, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries:
- Under-Maintaining Vehicles. To save on costs, companies might delay necessary maintenance or repairs on trucks. Neglecting regular servicing can lead to mechanical failures that contribute to accidents.
- Overloading Trucks. Exceeding weight limits not only violates regulations but also affects a truck's handling and braking capabilities. This can make it more difficult for drivers to control their vehicles and increase the risk of accidents.
- Using Unqualified Drivers. Some companies might hire drivers who lack adequate experience or proper training to minimize labor costs. Inadequate training can lead to poor driving practices and higher accident rates.
- Cutting Corners on Safety Equipment. Skimping on essential safety equipment, such as working brakes, proper lighting, or cargo-securing devices, can compromise vehicle safety and contribute to accidents.
- Ignoring Regulatory Compliance. Companies may bypass required safety audits or inspections to avoid scrutiny and expenses. This non-compliance can result in unsafe operating conditions that endanger other road users.
Understanding these tactics can help you identify potential areas of negligence and build a stronger case. If you suspect that these practices contributed to your accident, working with a skilled Texas truck accident lawyer can help you uncover evidence and seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact an experienced Houston truck accident lawyer today
Trucking companies are required to maintain vehicles, driver standards, and accurate records. Failure to do so not only violates safety regulations but can also indicate a higher level of liability. After an accident involving a tractor-trailer, you don't want to try to deal with the trucking company and their insurance company alone. These are big, high-stakes claims, and they have teams of attorneys and adjusters on their side to reduce or deny your claim. That's why you need to contact a law firm with the experience and resources needed to take on the trucking companies.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a tractor-trailer accident in Houston, contact Tracey Fox & Walters for a free case evaluation. We are available to hear from you 24/7. A member of our team can listen to the details of what happened, answer questions, and explain your legal options. There is no charge or obligation to hire—just information you can trust from a Texas law firm focused on getting meaningful results for our clients.
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