Responsibilities of Trucking Companies and Their Drivers to Prevent Accidents

The causes of many truck accidents can be tracked back to negligent maintenance and upkeep of the vehicles. This is why safety experts who monitor the trucking industry emphasize the need for trucking carriers and their drivers to perform proper inspections of these rigs prior to and after trips, and to have proper repairs done when required. In addition trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure their truck drivers are properly trained and that the company adheres to current industry regulations.

When trucking companies fail to maintain, inspect, or repair their commercial vehicles or train drivers properly, they may be held liable for any subsequent injuries caused by this negligence.

Stay up-to-date with regulation changes

There are many complex federal regulations that govern the trucking industry, including Hours of Service regulations which govern the number of hours a truck driver may operate a commercial truck during any given week or shorter period of time with proper breaks or rest. These laws and rules are in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Failure to know these laws or comply with them puts everyone in danger.

Perform proper inspections

Before taking the wheel, truck drivers are required to perform a complete inspection of the vehicle. Maintenance may include something as refilling certain fluids in the engine or the tires with proper air pressure, but even the smallest maintenance task is important for safety.

Implement necessary training

Truck companies have a responsibility to make sure they only hire properly experienced and skilled drivers. If drivers are new or relatively new to the industry, those drivers should receive the proper training and development to facilitate their success and the safety of others. Any failure in the vetting, hiring, and training process can result in a serious truck crash and injuries.

Proper trip preparation

Truck drivers are on the road for long hours, traveling hundreds and sometimes thousands of miles in matter of one or just a few days. Many times, they drive through unfamiliar territory. For these reasons, it is imperative for trick drivers to prepare properly before embarking on a new journey. This should involve checking anticipated weather conditions along the route when the rig will pass through those areas, getting sufficient sleep before beginning the trip, and planning out the best route that ensures safety and efficiency.

At Cunningham & Mears, our Oklahoma City truck accident attorneys understand the various regulations that govern the trucking industry. We also know the various methods used by trucking carriers and their insurance companies to deny responsibility for crashes on the road that involve their drivers and big rigs. Our team can help you with a complete investigation of your accident and fight effective for the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses when the truck driver, the trucking company, or another party was negligent. To set up a free case review, give us a call today at 405.232.1212  or reach us through our contact form.