What Is 18 Wheeler Law?

Accidents caused by commercial truck drivers their rigs and 18 wheelers are covered under the 18 wheeler law. These huge vehicles must be subject to strict federal guidelines for maintenance security, safety, and training.

Unfortunately, trucking companies frequently press their drivers to complete longer hours and alter log books. This can result in catastrophic trucking crashes.

Weight Regulations

It is important to understand the weight limits for semi-trucks. Most states have single axle and group axle weight limits that must be adhered to. It is commonplace to see weigh stations along interstates where truckers are weighed in order to confirm that they do not exceed maximum limits for their vehicle and load. If a trucker is caught in violation of these limits and is found guilty, they may be fined and even sent to jail depending on their criminal history and the state.

Axle groups have a higher limit on weight because the vehicle is more secure when the weight is distributed over a wider range of axles. This also allows for the transport of more cargo. For instance, a single tire on an axle can weigh 650 pounds per inch of wheel diameter, but when there are two tires on that same axle it can be weighted at 1300 lbs per tire.

There are limitations on the types of trailers that can be used with a tractor. Some states permit only one trailer while others only permit triple or twin trailers. In addition, many states require a fifth wheel on the trailer which is a rounded plate on top of the drive wheels, which connects (hooks) the trailer to the tractor unit. There are both day cab tractors and sleeper cabs that have a sleeping area into the tractor unit. They are designed for over-the-road hauling.

Lane Restrictions

Truck drivers must adhere to traffic signals and speed limits in addition to lane restrictions. Trucks cannot drive at the same speed as vehicles for passengers and, even if they do, they can cause accidents. In many instances the truck driver is the one at fault in these accidents. This is because truck drivers may drive for longer than allowed or break the rules of hours-of-service, or get sleepy or distracted behind the vehicle.

Another important restriction on lane use is that truck drivers are not permitted to drive in the left lane. This is because it takes a lot longer for trucks to brake than passenger vehicles. This can be a very dangerous situation, particularly for smaller vehicles that could be stuck behind trucks if they suddenly slow down or stop.

There are states that specifically exempt large trucks and prohibit them from using the left lane, and other states limit the use of the lane in certain circumstances. These laws may be based either on weight or axel limit. In other cases, they could be solely based on vehicle description.

Even if there's no law that is statewide, you should check local rules about the lane restriction and adhere to the rules. You should also shift to the right when you notice trucks blocking the lane.

Ownership

The trucking and 18-wheeler businesses have many resources they can employ to pressure accident victims to accept less than they're entitled. They have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters who represent them before they even know whether the accident victim will take legal action.

Because they can carry massive loads and are larger than passenger automobiles, nicholasville 18 wheeler accident lawsuit wheelers typically cause massive injuries and property damage in accidents. This is particularly the case when they collide with other motor vehicles. It is crucial to have a lawyer who has experience fighting for your rights against these large, powerful corporations.

Large-scale accidents require an understanding of the most complex concepts in the fields of physics and biology, chemistry and federal regulations for trucking, medicine, driving standards and other related fields. Our lawyers are able to uncover any violations of these laws, and explain to the jury what led to your accident.

There are many parties that can be responsible for truck accidents involving 18-wheelers. Our NY 18 wheeler accident lawyer will investigate all liable parties and make sure they are liable for their fair portion of your current and anticipated expenses. This includes owners of trucking businesses, trucking companies of maintenance contractors, even the drivers themselves. Our team will also analyze the weather conditions that could have played a part in your accident.

Insurance

Trucking companies are able to provide large teams of adjusters, lawyers engineers, and experts quickly. They begin this process before they know if you'll be seeking legal recourse. This is why it's essential to get an experienced lawyer who can match their resources and bring them down to size.

A lawyer with experience handling teague 18 wheeler accident Attorney (vimeo.com)-wheeler collisions will ease your burden and help you obtain the compensation you're entitled to. The money could be used to pay medical expenses, vehicle damage and lost income due to missed work and other non-economic losses such as suffering and pain.

18-wheelers are complex vehicles that require high-level, systematic maintenance to keep them on the road. Inability to keep detailed records and perform this maintenance can cause disastrous accidents.

Tractor-trailers can be used to transport hazardous materials, that require specialized training and a license. The material is explosive, flammable or poisonous, all of which could pose a significant risk for other drivers on American roads. A catastrophic accident could also occur if the load was not properly labeled and secured.

A qualified 18-wheeler crash attorney will determine the exact cause of the accident and pinpoint any individuals who could be accountable. These may include the truck driver and the trucking company, the owner of the trailer, and the company that manufactures the truck or its components. This is known as vicarious liability.