Texas has a large and active trucking industry responsible for transporting goods throughout the state and across the country. Because commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, Texas and federal laws impose strict safety requirements on trucking companies and drivers. According to Shev Law Firm’s Truck Accident Lawyers in Dallas, understanding these regulations can be important when investigating a truck accident and determining whether negligence played a role.
Hours of Service (HOS) rules are designed to prevent truck driver fatigue. According to federal rules, commercial drivers may drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They may drive a CMV for 14-hour on-duty limit and must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
According to the Truck Accident Lawyers in Dallas, Texas intrastate drivers have different limit that allow them 12 hours of driving after 8 hours off duty. Neither interstate nor intrastate drivers are may exceed 70 hours or duty in any 7-day period. Violations of these requirements can increase the risk of fatigue-related crashes.
Commercial drivers generally use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to record driving time and monitor compliance with HOS requirements as explained by Houston Truck Accident Lawyers. These electronic records can be important evidence when determining whether a driver exceeded legally permitted driving hours before a collision.
Texas regulates commercial vehicle size and weight to protect roads, bridges, and other motorists. Certain commercial vehicles are generally subject to an 80,000-pound gross weight limit, along with restrictions involving axle weight, vehicle width, height, and length. Oversized or overweight vehicles may create additional safety risks when improperly operated.
Commercial truck drivers may need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) depending on the vehicle and cargo involved. Trucking companies and drivers must also conduct required inspections, repairs, and maintenance to keep vehicles in safe operating condition. Brake problems, worn tires, defective equipment, and other maintenance failures can contribute to serious crashes.
Trucking companies and drivers must also follow regulations concerning drug and alcohol use, recordkeeping, cargo safety, and financial responsibility, including required commercial liability insurance.
The earlier we assess your case, the more options you may have.
Shev Law Group — Dependable, Experienced, and Prepared to Advocate for Your Future.
Dallas Office: (214) 915-8835
Houston Office: (281) 429-8083
Website: www.shevlawgroup.com
Address: 2990 Richmond Ave., Suite 205, Houston, TX 77098, USA
Our clients’ trust means the world to us. Here’s what they have to say about working with our team.
SHEV Law Group provides expert legal services with offices in Houston and Dallas. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering personalized legal solutions to meet your unique needs.
