Big trucks can be dangerous when the necessary precautions are not taken to ensure that these massive vehicles are loaded and performing as they should. When inspection requirements are not met, deadly truck accidents can occur. This is one of the main reasons why 18-wheelers and other big rigs must meet special inspection requirements.
Regular Inspections
Truck Maintenance
Before beginning a trip and after ending each trip, every motor carrier employing truck drivers must inspect all vehicles and make any necessary repairs. Truck drivers are also required to inspect the entirety of their vehicle before and after a trip to ensure that the vehicle complies with company policy and applicable laws. Drivers are required to document if they observe any unsafe conditions.
Weight Requirements
Weight stations are typically located off of highways as a means for the Department of Transportation to ensure that trailers are not overloaded. At these stops, drivers must enter the scales and verify that their vehicle is under 80,000 pounds.
Yearly Inspections
In addition to regular inspections, the Department of Transportation requires vehicles over 10,001 pounds to undergo and pass a yearly inspection to ensure all parts are working as they should. A representative from the department will review:
The vehicle operator’s CDL and other necessary driver requirements
Hours-of-service logs
The entire vehicle
Specific items on the vehicle
Truck drivers can find pre-built checklists online to ensure they are prepared for their yearly DOT inspection.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, it’s imperative you seek legal representation. The attorneys at Briggle & Polan have extensive experience handling the most complex truck accident cases. We will review the details of your accident to determine whether the truck driver, loading company or trucking company acted negligently and fight hard for your financial recovery.
Contact Briggle & Polan at (512) 400-3278 to schedule your free case review.
