Weight, width, length violations can provide basis for liability in truck accident cases

In our last post, we mentioned several measures Governor Matt Bevin recently signed into law several measures that will ease trucking weight requirements in an effort to increase business in the state of Kentucky. Truck and other commercial vehicle drivers, of course, are bound by a variety of regulations, and size regulations are among them.

Federal law does not establish any height requirements for commercial motor vehicles, but states are allowed to set their own limits. Federal law does regulate width and length requirements for commercial motor vehicles, though. Length requirements vary depend on the specific features of the truck.

States are required to allow commercial motor vehicles that meet federal width and length limits to have reasonable access between interstates and terminals and facilities providing fuel, repair, rest areas and points of loading and unloading.

The rules for length, width and weight requirements are all very specific, and even though the federal standards are uniform, rules can vary from state to state. Trucking companies and truck drivers, as well as other motor vehicle operators, need to implement effective compliance programs and self-monitor so that they remain in compliance with the rules. As we noted last time, easing these regulations does come with risks, since increases in weight, length, height and width can make vehicles less manageable and more prone to becoming involved in accidents. The same is true for federal and state rules governing the securement of goods.

Whenever a truck accident occurs, it is important for accident victims to work with an experienced attorney to thoroughly investigate the case to determine the cause of liability. This is especially important in cases where the truck driver was in violation of federal and state safety regulations, as these violations can be a solid basis on which to establish liability when they are determined to have contributed to the accident.