What Is 18 Wheeler Law?

18 wheeler accident attorneys wheeler law deals with accidents that involve commercial truck drivers and their rigs. These huge vehicles must adhere to strict federal guidelines for maintenance as well as safety and training.

Unfortunately, trucking companies frequently force their drivers to work longer hours and alter log books. This can cause accidents that happen in trucks to be catastrophic.

Weight Regulations

Understanding the weight limits for semi-trucks is crucial. Many states have single axle and group axle weight limits that must be observed. Weigh stations are prevalent along interstates where truckers are weighed to ensure they do not over the weight limit for their vehicle or load. If a trucker is found violating these limits, they could be fined and even sentenced to jail subject to their criminal history and the state.

Axle groups are able to have an upper limit due to the fact that distributing the weight across more axles increases the safety of the vehicle and allows for more cargo to be carried. A single tire on a wheel is only weighed up to 665 pounds per inch however, if two tires are mounted on the same axle, it could be weighed up to 1300 pounds.

There are also limitations on the types of trailers that can be used with a tractor. Some states will only allow one trailer, while other states only permit triple or twin trailers. Some states also require a fifth wheel on the trailer, which is a plate that is placed over the drive wheels and couples (hooks up) the trailer to the tractor unit. There are day cab tractor and sleeper cabs that incorporate a sleeping area into the tractor unit and are specifically designed for over-the-road hauling.

Lane Restrictions

In addition to restrictions on lane usage Truck drivers must also be aware of speed limits as well as traffic lights. Trucks can't drive at the same speed as cars, and when they do, they might cause accidents. In most cases, it is the driver of the truck who is responsible. Truck drivers could be driving for longer than they are permitted to, or breaking the hours-of service regulations or be asleep or distracted behind the wheel.

Truck drivers are also barred from driving in the left right lane. This is because it takes a lot longer for trucks to brake than passenger vehicles. This could result in a dangerous situation, particularly for smaller cars that may get stuck behind trucks when they suddenly slow down or stop.

Some states limit the use of lanes in certain circumstances, while others restrict it to large trucks. These laws can be based on axel or weight limits. In other situations they could be based solely on vehicle description.

Although there's no statewide law regarding lane restrictions you should still be aware of local rules and abide by them. Also, you should move to the right when you notice a truck blocking the passing lane.

Ownership

The trucking and 18-wheeler companies have an abundance of resources to employ to pressure victims of accidents to accept less than they are entitled to. They have teams of lawyers, insurance adjusters, engineers, and experts who work on their behalf, even before they know whether the victim of the accident will pursue legal recourse.

Due to their massive load and are much bigger than passenger vehicles, 18 wheelers can cause massive injuries and property damage when they are involved in accidents. This is particularly so when they collide with motor vehicles. It is vital to hire a lawyer who has experience fighting for your rights against these powerful, large corporations.

Accidents involving large vehicles require an understanding of the most complex concepts in the fields of physics and chemistry, biology, federal regulations for trucking and medical practices, driving regulations, and other related fields. Our lawyers are able to find any violations of these laws and show the jury what caused your accident.

There are many parties that can be responsible for truck accidents involving 18 wheeler accident-wheelers. Our NY 18 wheeler accident lawyer will investigate all accountable parties and ensure they pay their fair part of your current and expected costs. This includes trucking companies owners, maintenance contractors, owners and even the drivers themselves. Our team will also examine weather conditions that might have played a role in your accident.

Insurance

Trucking companies have a wealth of resources available and can quickly send teams of insurance adjusters, lawyers engineers, experts, and even engineers to build a defense against the victims of accidents. They start this process even before they know whether you'll seek legal recourse. It is essential to find an attorney who is capable of matching their resources and helping them decrease in size.

An experienced 18 wheeler crash lawyer can help you deal with these big corporations off your shoulders and focus on getting you the compensation you are entitled to. This can be used to cover expenses like steep medical bills or vehicle damage, 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer loss of wages due to absence from work, as well as non-economic damages like suffering and pain.

18 wheelers are a complex vehicle and require a high-level, systematic maintenance to ensure their safety on the road. Failure to do this maintenance and maintain accurate logs can lead to disastrous accidents.

Tractor-trailers frequently carry hazardous materials that requires specialized training and specialized certification to transport. These materials may be explosive or flammable or radiological, as well as poisonous. They all pose a major risk to other motorists on American highways. A fatal accident could occur if the load is not properly labelled and secured.

A reputable 18 wheeler crash lawyer will determine the exact cause of your crash and liable for any party who may be responsible. These may include the driver of the truck as well as the trucking company, the owner of the trailer and the company that manufactures the truck or its components. This is called vicarious responsibility.