Types of Trucking Company Negligence

Driving a commercial truck is a big responsibility. These vehicles are large, heavy, obstructive to other drivers, and they can cause significant damage in an accident. This is why states like Kentucky have specific legislation regarding commercial trucking regulations. Below are several types of trucking company negligence, which may be punishable by law.

Schedules That Exceed Federal Regulations

Trucking companies are prohibited from scheduling deliveries that

• Require a driver to travel above the speed limit
• Require a driver to exceed their maximum driving time

In order to monitor a truck company's scheduling, drivers are required to keep log books with their distance traveled and the time that they spend driving.

Failing To Properly Maintain a Vehicle

Prior to a delivery, both the driver and trucking company must ensure that the vehicle is well maintained and in proper working order. This includes the brakes, tires, windshield wipers, and any other parts that may cause a Kentucky trucking accident.

Failing To Properly Secure the Cargo

Before each delivery, both the truck driver and the trucking company must ensure that a truck is properly loaded, balanced, and secured. Any unsecured cargo might fall off a truck and be a hazard to other vehicles. The driver should also make sure that the cargo does not obstruct any part of their view.

Hiring Unqualified Drivers

Commercial truckers are required to complete a course in specialized training. They may also be subjected to random drug and alcohol screenings. It the responsibility of the trucking company, however, to ensure that each driver's license has not been suspended, revoked, or canceled because of traffic violations, criminal offenses, or any other type of negligence.

A trucking company should always discipline their drivers for safety violations.

Neglecting To Provide the Proper Safety Devices

A trucking company must provide the necessary safety devices on their vehicles, such as a proper braking system, a sufficient horn, and rear underride protection.

If You Have Been Involved in a Kentucky Trucking Accident

The first thing you should do is call a Kentucky truck accident attorney. An attorney will hear your case, and help you determine if you should file a Kentucky personal injury claim to recover your accident expenses. If your injuries were caused by a failure to abide by any of the regulations listed above, then you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you've incurred from the trucking company in addition to (or instead of) the truck driver involved in your crash.

A Louisville truck accident lawyer at Gray and White Law can help you handle every aspect of your truck injury claim from determining liability to negotiating with insurance companies. If you've been injured in a Kentucky truck accident contact us today for a free evaluation of your case (800) 634-8767 or (502) 210- 8942.