Large commercial trucks are the lifeblood of America’s supply chain, moving essential goods across thousands of miles every day so store shelves can be stocked. However, their enormous size and weight make them incredibly dangerous when drivers and trucking companies ignore safety regulations. Neglecting proper maintenance and disregarding safety laws can lead to catastrophic truck accidents, serious injuries, and even deaths.
In 2024, state law enforcement agencies in California and Iowa uncovered alarming safety violations in the trucking industry. These inspection failures are examples of the dangers of cutting corners and ignoring safety protocols. Here are some of the most shocking trucking violations of the year and the safety responsibilities that drivers and trucking companies must uphold.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) Discoveries
In December, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) stopped a semi-truck that was dangerously rolling without a tire, which left the metal rim grinding against the pavement. The driver remained unaware of this severe issue until officers flagged them down at a CHP facility. This oversight could have caused catastrophic mechanical failure or a devastating loss of control.
CHP officers also cited a truck driver for speeding far above California’s 55 mph speed limit for large trucks. Speeding drastically reduces a truck’s ability to stop quickly and increases the severity of crashes. High-speed collisions involving semi-trucks often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the sheer force of impact.
Iowa State Patrol (ISP) Findings
The Iowa State Patrol (ISP) stopped a truck with dangerously misaligned and flat tires that pointed in opposite directions. Additionally, the trailer’s lights didn’t function, which left the vehicle nearly invisible to other drivers at night. Shockingly, the driver claimed to have no idea about these safety hazards.
In another alarming case, ISP officers noticed a truck leaning awkwardly on the road. Upon inspection, they discovered a snapped trailer frame. Despite the obvious structural damage, the driver continued operating the vehicle. A broken trailer frame can easily cause the trailer to collapse or detach.
One truck driver struck a low bridge, severely damaging the trailer. Instead of stopping, the driver continued driving, risking debris falling onto the road. This reckless decision could have endangered other motorists, leading to avoidable accidents.
In a particularly egregious case, ISP officers pulled over a commercial driver who was drinking hard liquor while driving. The driver’s blood alcohol concentration was nearly five times the legal limit for commercial drivers. Operating an 80,000-pound vehicle while impaired endangers everyone on the road and demonstrates a disregard for public safety.
ISP officers also stopped a truck carrying oversized freight without proper permits, registration, or insurance. The truck hadn’t been registered in 16 years and showed clear signs of neglect. Operating an unregistered vehicle with heavy, unsecured cargo poses a serious threat to road safety and violates multiple safety regulations.
What Responsibilities Do Truckers and Trucking Companies Have?
To prevent disasters such as the ones identified in California and Iowa, truck drivers and trucking companies must strictly follow state and federal safety regulations. These rules exist to protect drivers, passengers, and everyone sharing the road. They include:
1. Adhere to federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations
Fatigue remains one of the most significant causes of truck accidents. When companies pressure drivers with unrealistic delivery deadlines, drivers may push beyond these limits, which increases the risk of fatigue-related crashes. Federal HOS regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest. Drivers must take at least 10 consecutive off-duty hours before starting a shift. They can drive no more than 11 hours during a 14-hour workday and must take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving.
2. Conducting pre-trip and post-trip inspections
Pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections help catch mechanical issues before they cause truck accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires drivers to inspect key components like brakes, tires, lights, and trailer connections. Daily inspections must include:
- Checking tire pressure and tread wear
- Testing brake functionality
- Confirming working headlights, turn signals, and reflectors
- Ensuring secure trailer connections
3. Performing regular maintenance and accurate record-keeping
Trucking companies must prioritize regular maintenance to prevent mechanical breakdowns. Skipping repairs or ignoring maintenance logs to save time or money leads to dangerous situations, such as brake failures or tire blowouts. FMCSA guidelines require companies to:
- Schedule and complete regular maintenance
- Keep accurate logs of repairs and inspections
- Address flagged issues immediately
4. Securing cargo correctly
Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, which can cause trucks to roll over, jackknife, or spill debris onto the road. Federal regulations require that freight be evenly distributed and properly secured with appropriate straps or chains. Overloaded trucks or improperly secured cargo compromise vehicle stability, especially during sudden turns or abrupt stops.
5. Hiring and training qualified drivers
Operating a semi-truck requires specialized training and certification. Trucking companies must hire drivers with valid Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) and provide continuous training on safety protocols. Companies must also ensure drivers pass physical fitness exams to confirm they can handle the demands of long-haul trips.
6. Monitoring and correcting unsafe driving behaviors
Trucking companies must actively monitor driver behavior to identify and correct risky practices such as speeding, hard braking, or distracted driving. Telematics systems can provide real-time data on driving habits, which allows for company intervention.
Injured in a Truck Accident in South Carolina? We’re Here to Help.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an accident with a semi-truck, tractor-trailer, or some other type of large commercial vehicle, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. The South Carolina attorneys at Johnson + Johnson understand how devastating truck accidents can be. We're ready to investigate your crash, build a strong case, and hold negligent trucking companies/truckers accountable.
You shouldn’t have to carry the burden of medical bills, lost income, and pain on your own. We can handle every aspect of your case, from negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to trial if necessary. We also work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Additionally, we offer free consultations, where you'll get the chance to ask questions and learn more about our approach. Plus, we'll explain your legal options and map out the next steps in your case. You can expect honest guidance and dedicated support every step of the way.
To get started, contact us online or call us today to schedule your free consultation with Johnson + Johnson Attorneys at Law.
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