Colburn Law

Hours of Service Violations with Truck Drivers

Trucking accidents can lead to devastating consequences, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In the aftermath, it is essential to investigate all potential contributing factors, including the truck driver’s adherence to federal hours of service regulations.

These rules are designed to ensure that drivers are well-rested and alert behind the wheel and play a crucial role in maintaining road safety. When truck drivers or their employers violate these regulations, they put themselves and everyone else on the road at risk of serious accidents.

What Are the FMCSA Hours of Service Rules?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established strict guidelines to regulate the amount of time truck drivers can spend on the road. These rules are designed to combat driver fatigue, a leading cause of trucking accidents.

Under the current regulations:

• Truck drivers may operate their vehicles for a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• Truck drivers are prohibited from driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• Truck drivers must take a mandatory 30-minute break after eight cumulative hours of driving.
• Truck drivers may not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days, depending on their company’s operating schedule.

What Happens If a Driver or Company Violates Hours of Service Laws?

Violating hours of service regulations can lead to severe consequences for both truck drivers and their employers. If a driver is caught exceeding the allowable hours, they may be placed out of service until they have taken the required off-duty time. This can result in delays in deliveries and financial losses for the trucking company.

However, the most significant consequence is the increased risk of accidents. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make errors in judgment, have slower reaction times, and even fall asleep at the wheel. When these violations contribute to an accident, the results can be catastrophic, causing serious injuries or even fatalities.

What If You Are Involved in an Accident Caused by Hours of Service Violations?

If you have been involved in a trucking accident and suspect that hours of service violations played a role, you deserve justice. In Washington, you are entitled to file a lawsuit or insurance claim against the negligent driver and their employer to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. This process can be complex, which is why you need an attorney on your side.

A Seattle truck accident lawyer can help investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence such as log books and black box data to determine whether an hours of service violation occurred. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and represent your interests in court, fighting for full compensation on your behalf.

Seek Justice Against a Negligent Truck Driver Today

Hours of service violations by truck drivers can lead to devastating accidents and life-altering consequences. If you suspect that this type of violation contributed to your accident, Colburn Law can help. Our truck accident lawyer can conduct an in-depth investigation into your accident and help you achieve the justice that you deserve. Contact us today at (206) 880-7628 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and discuss your next steps.