Lancaster Truck Maintenance Safety Regulations Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash with a large commercial vehicle like a tractor-trailer, issues surrounding the maintenance of the big rig might play a pivotal role in your claim. In that event, comprehending the intricacies of truck maintenance regulations becomes essential. Trevino Law Firm is a Southern California law firm with particular expertise in handling car and truck accidents in the Antelope Valley. Combining expertise in the law with empathy for clients, attorney Darlene Trevino prioritizes achieving positive outcomes for her clients while making sure they are taken care of along the way. Unlike larger firms where you might feel like just another case number, Trevino Law Firm offers personalized attention and a compassionate approach, with services available in both Spanish and English. Contact our dedicated Lancaster truck maintenance safety regulations lawyer today.
Truck Safety Regulations: A Dual-Layer Approach
Truck maintenance in the United States is governed by two tiers of regulations: federal and state. On the federal level, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the baseline requirements for truck maintenance. Additionally, individual states often have specific guidelines, and California is no exception.
Federal Oversight by FMCSA
The FMCSA has established an exhaustive list of requirements for trucking companies to maintain the mechanical fitness of commercial trucks. These regulations cover crucial systems of a tractor-trailer, including:
- Emergency gear
- Steering capabilities
- Brake systems
- Reflectors and lighting
- Windshield condition
- Wheels and tires
The FMCSA also demands rigorous record-keeping of these inspections, including details like:
- Vehicle identification
- Scheduled inspection dates
- Nature of repairs or replacements
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in hefty penalties for the trucking companies. In addition, evidence of noncompliance with federal regulations can be evidence of negligence. When tied to the cause of the crash, this evidence can be used to hold the trucking company liable for the accident and accountable to accident victims for the damage done to them, including compensation for their medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
California’s Additional Measures
State regulations in California, managed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), place further constraints on emissions from commercial trucks. These regulations often go above and beyond federal standards.
Regulations require truck drivers to conduct pre-trip inspections of various critical aspects of the truck, and trucking companies are additionally required to conduct periodic inspections and perform regular maintenance. Both the trucker and trucking company must keep records and logs of inspections and maintenance. However, these parties have been known to make false entries into log books to hide their failure to perform required inspections and maintenance. These facts may only come to light when the semi-truck is pulled over for an inspection or after a crash when preventable damage has already been done.
The Role of Truck Maintenance in Your Personal Injury Claim
The conditions of the truck involved in an accident can significantly influence your personal injury case in several ways:
- Proof of Negligence: If a truck failed to meet maintenance standards, this information could be vital in establishing negligence.
- Defining Liability: Maintenance records can help pinpoint liability, thereby strengthening your claim.
- Informed Negotiations: Having a firm grasp on these regulations and how they apply to your case aids in negotiating with insurance adjusters and opposing attorneys from a position of strength to secure a full and fair settlement.
Contact Trevino Law Firm Today
For help navigating the complexities of a truck accident claim, including those involving negligent truck maintenance or other factors, let Trevino Law Firm guide you to a successful resolution with compassionate advice and passionate advocacy. Call 661-526-5012 for a free consultation to find out how our Lancaster truck accident lawyer can help.