The Role Of Trucking Companies In Preventing Accidents
Trucking is a key industry in Louisiana’s economy, with thousands of trucks navigating the state’s roadways every day. The presence of these massive vehicles, however, brings a heightened risk of accidents. When these accidents occur, it can be difficult to identify who is at fault.
While the truck driver may be the obvious party to hold responsible, trucking companies may also be to blame. At LA Law Lady, Lauren takes on large trucking companies and their insurers to help obtain the compensation you deserve. To learn more, consider booking your free case review at (504) 470-3511 today.
Staying Up-to-Date With Regulation Changes
There are a range of complex regulations that govern the commercial trucking industry. Such laws have been put in place to help protect both truck drivers and others on the road. If a trucking company is not aware of these regulations or fails to comply with the relevant laws, the safety of everyone on the road is put at risk.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly implements new rules to improve road safety, enhance operational efficiency, and adapt to evolving technology. Fleet managers, independent owner-operators, and trucking companies must stay up-to-date on these regulatory changes to ensure compliance.
For instance, if new rules surrounding substance use have recently been proposed, trucking companies must take extra steps to check drivers’ license status. In other cases, the FMCSA may mandate the installation of new equipment, such as automatic emergency braking systems. If trucking companies fail to retrofit its fleet with such equipment, it risks noncompliance (and jeopardizes the safety of others).
Performing Proper Inspections
Before operating a truck, the driver must inspect the vehicle to ensure that it is in safe operating condition (49 CFR 396.11). If there are any defects or deficiencies, the trucking company must repair the issue before the truck is dispatched again. Additionally, trucking companies are required to conduct periodic inspections at least once every 12 months. Louisiana has adopted periodic inspection requirements that companies operating in the state must abide by to meet this requirement.
These inspections involve a comprehensive examination of the truck’s mechanical components, like brakes, steering, tires, lights, engine, and cargo. A review of the driver’s documentation may also occur to ensure compliance with safety and licensing regulations. If a trucking company does not properly inspect their fleet, it risks steep fines, potential loss of operating license, and legal liability for any accidents caused by their faulty vehicles.
Implementing Necessary Training Protocols
In the trucking industry, driver safety is a top priority. The implications of neglecting driver safety can be devastating, which means that trucking companies have an incentive to establish clear safety goals and ongoing training protocols for the drivers who operate their vehicles. By providing truck drivers with the knowledge and skills required to operate safely, trucking companies can do their part in reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Ongoing safety and refresher courses are key to maintaining a driver’s skills and knowledge over time. Such training should be offered at regular intervals and cover a broad range of topics, including regulatory changes, amendments to company policy, and industry standards and best practices. Defensive training strategies and hazard recognition are also important skills for truck drivers, and by implementing the necessary training protocols to solidify these skills, companies can help drivers develop the instincts needed to prevent accidents and respond effectively in emergency situations.
Ensuring Proper Trip Preparation
Freight transportation is complex, and proper planning is key to ensuring that cargo gets to its destination safely and securely. By establishing trip preparation protocols, trucking companies can help ensure that issues like weather, driver distraction, and fatigue do not threaten the safety of others on the road. Trucking companies can plan trips to avoid hazardous weather that may cause accidents, and offer a back-up plan to drivers who find themselves on rough, difficult-to-navigate roads.
Proper planning can also help ensure that drivers are prepared to comply with hours of service regulations. Per these regulations, drivers are not permitted to drive more than 11 consecutive hours after 10 hours off-duty and must take 30-minute driving breaks at certain points during their shifts. Scheduling breaks and planning multiple stopping points along the route can help provide drivers with a sense of direction and organization as they transport cargo long distances.
Contact LA Law Lady Today
If you or a loved one was involved in a trucking accident, consulting an experienced attorney can ensure that you have the guidance you need to reclaim your life and pursue justice. At Louisiana Law Lady, our attorney Lauren Pilie will work alongside you to create a strategic winning plan for your case. Consider scheduling your free consultation at (504) 470-3511 to learn how Lauren can help you obtain the compensation you deserve today.