Commercial semi-trucks account for over 100 fatal crashes and 2,000 crashes causing injury in Illinois each year, and the majority of the victims are the occupants of other vehicles. Many of these accidents are caused by an error on the part of the driver, perhaps related to driver fatigue, speeding, or drunk driving. However, a substantial number are also caused by improper loading or maintenance before the truck even takes to the road. If you are injured in one of these accidents, it is important that you understand all possible options for compensation.

Trucking Industry Regulations for Maintenance and Loading

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues regulations for interstate truck drivers and trucking companies throughout the United States to ensure safe vehicle operation. Regarding maintenance, the FMCSA requires regular inspections of trucks and trucking equipment to identify any necessary repairs, as well as detailed record-keeping of repairs and maintenance. Any truck determined to be unsafe for the road must not be driven until it has been adequately repaired.

Regarding cargo loading, trucking companies must ensure a safe weight distribution throughout the truck, as well as the proper securement of any cargo that may shift in transit. The securement devices used must be sufficient to withstand the regular forces of acceleration and deceleration, and specific devices must be used for certain types of cargo that can roll.