Denver residents share the road with lots of trucks each day. Trucks are necessary in bringing goods to and from Colorado but they can be considered an obstacle. If a driver is involved in a truck accident that involves a large truck, it can cause serious injuries or even death. With this in mind, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has set regulations for drivers of these big rigs.
There are various federal qualifications for an interstate truck driver. First, the driver must be 21 years or older. They have to be physically capable of driving the truck based on the FMCSA requirements. They have to have a valid commercial driver’s license and have provided their employer with a list of their driving violations. They must also pass a road test.
When an unqualified truck driver gets behind the wheel of a big rig, a serious accident may occur. The FMCSA sets these regulations in order to help keep everyone safe. Thousands of people are killed each year by being involved in a big rig accident. If a person finds themselves in this situation they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can visit the accident scene and help investigate what happened to cause the accident. They can interview witnesses, review police reports and determine who is at fault. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, funeral expenses, pain and suffering and other damages.
If a person is involved in an accident involving a semi-truck, the trucking company may do anything they can to limit the payout the victim receives. Having an attorney on the victim’s side can make sure their rights are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve.
Source: fmcsa.dot.gov, “Part 391“, accessed on May 21, 2017
