Common Truck Driver Violations That Lead to Catastrophic Injuries

Truck drivers are required to follow strict safety rules set by both federal and state authorities. These regulations exist for good reason—commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and have the potential to cause devastating harm in a crash. Unfortunately, not every driver or trucking company takes these responsibilities seriously. When safety rules are disregarded, innocent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians often bear the consequences. Understanding the most common violations can help explain why many truck accidents result in catastrophic injuries.

Hours-of-Service (HOS) Violations

To prevent fatigue behind the wheel, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) limits the number of hours truckers can drive without a break. These hours-of-service (HOS) rules are designed to allow drivers sufficient time to rest and recover before returning to the road.

But some drivers push past those limits to meet tight delivery deadlines. Others may falsify their driving logs or find ways to manipulate electronic logging devices (ELDs), which are designed to track driving hours automatically.

Common violations include:

• Driving more hours than allowed without rest
• Falsifying logbooks to appear compliant
• Tampering with or disabling ELDs
• Skipping mandatory off-duty breaks

Whether it’s driving 12 hours straight or cutting rest time short, fatigue has a significant impact on a driver’s ability to stay alert. Drowsy driving slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of rear-end collisions, rollovers, and lane departures. When a tired driver is behind the wheel of a big rig, the consequences can be deadly.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speed limits are in place for a reason, especially for large trucks that require extra time and space to slow down. When a trucker is driving too fast, the risk of a serious accident skyrockets.

Speeding becomes even more dangerous in poor weather, heavy traffic, or construction zones. A wet road combined with a speeding truck can easily lead to loss of control or hydroplaning. Reckless behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, or failing to use turn signals, also put others at serious risk.

Because of their size and weight, trucks can’t stop on a dime. One bad decision by a speeding or aggressive driver can set off a chain reaction that injures multiple people in an instant.

Substance Use Violations

Federal law strictly prohibits commercial drivers from operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Testing is required both randomly and after specific incidents. Still, violations continue to occur.

Some drivers turn to stimulants like amphetamines or cocaine to stay awake on long trips. Others may drink while off-duty and get behind the wheel before they’re sober. Even prescription or over-the-counter medications can cause drowsiness or affect coordination.

Driving under the influence, whether of legal or illegal substances, interferes with focus, judgment, and reflexes. In a vehicle as large and unforgiving as a tractor-trailer, impaired driving can lead to catastrophic wrecks with no chance for victims to avoid harm.

Improper Cargo Loading or Weight Violations

Not all truck accidents are caused by how a driver operates the vehicle. Sometimes, the problem lies in what the truck is carrying and how it’s loaded.

Federal rules regulate the maximum weight of commercial trucks and require cargo to be secured appropriately. When trucks are overloaded or the cargo is unbalanced, the risk of tipping or jackknifing increases. Loose cargo can shift suddenly during a turn or fall off entirely, striking other vehicles or blocking the roadway.

Examples of loading-related violations include:

• Exceeding maximum weight limits
• Failing to use straps, chains, or securement devices
• Unevenly distributing cargo in the trailer
• Transporting hazardous materials without proper handling

These loading errors may involve the driver, the trucking company, or third-party shippers. But no matter who is responsible, the result is the same: a preventable accident that can cause serious injuries or deaths. Multi-vehicle pileups are often the tragic outcome when cargo issues trigger a loss of control.

The Cost of Ignoring Trucking Regulations

Truck drivers have a legal duty to operate safely and follow the rules meant to protect everyone on the road. When they violate those rules, whether by driving too long, too fast, under the influence, or with unsafe cargo, they put lives in danger.

For those injured in truck accidents, the consequences can be life-changing. Holding negligent drivers and companies accountable isn’t just about compensation – it’s about ensuring that safety rules are taken seriously. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a commercial truck, consult with a personal injury attorney who can help you pursue justice.

Mike

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