What You Should Know About Trucking Safety Regulations

Between 2003 and 2006, large truck accidents were the cause of 5000 fatalities per year, according to the Truck Safety Coalition. Driving a semi truck requires special training and careful attention. If a driver loses control of an 18-wheeler, the damage could be catastrophic.

This is why stringent trucking regulations are essential for the safety of truckers and ordinary drivers. Thankfully, some legislators are taking steps in the right direction.

In 2005, laws were changed in favor of trucking companies that allow for an increase in the amount of hours semi truck drivers are allowed to drive..., despite opposition from the Teamsters and trucking safety advocates. The rule was repeatedly struck down in various courts, but the trucking industry managed to extend driving hours anyway. During the first year that increased hours were allowed, the rate of fatal crashes resulting from driver fatigue rose by 20 percent. The hours of service increase was finally defeated in October 2009.

Unfortunately, in this economy, more truck drivers may be tempted to ignore the existing safety regulations in order to make more money in less time. In order to prevent hours of service (HOS) abuse by companies or drivers, safety advocates are pushing regulatory agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to require interstate shipping companies to install electronic onboard recorders in every truck. These devices are able to monitor driving hours and also record conditions at the time of an accident.

Legislation has also been proposed to strengthen size and weight restrictions on tractor-trailers and other large trucks. In Ohio and other coal states, we've all heard about illegal overloading of coal trucks. Stronger legislation on the national level may help Ohio crack down on trucking companies that put profit before safety.

As any competent Ohio truck accident lawyer will tell you, the Ohio Department of Transportation has also signed an agreement with Missouri and Illinois to fund the creation of dedicated truck-only lanes on I-70.

Increased regulation of the trucking industry may save thousands of lives in the future, but legislative change only happens when people speak out.

If you have been seriously injured in an Ohio semi truck accident or a loved one was killed in a collision caused by truck driver fatigue or negligence, it is essential that you contact an attorney. You deserve compensation for your injuries, and by fighting for your rights you can help spread the word about the need for strong trucking regulations.

If you have been seriously injured in a Canton trucking accident, or in any other Ohio city, , please contact the Ohio truck accident lawyers at Chester Law Group Co., LPA. at 1-800-218-4243.

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