Truck crashes are among the most hazardous on Michigan roads, and hours of service violations are a common contributing factor. These rules are meant to keep drowsy drivers off the road, but when they’re ignored, serious or even fatal accidents can follow. If you were hurt in a collision with a large truck in Troy, Hours of Service violations may have played a role.
Learning about your rights and how these violations can impact a legal case may be in your best interest following a Troy truck accident. If you’ve been injured by a truck driver who has violated their HOS, contact an experienced Troy truck accident attorney to schedule a complimentary consultation today.
What Are Hours of Service Rules?
Hours of service (HOS) rules are federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). They limit how long a commercial truck driver can be on the road before they must take a break. The goal is to reduce fatigue and prevent accidents caused by tired driving.
Some of the key HOS rules include:
- Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty
- Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
- There’s a 60/70-hour limit over 7/8 days, depending on the schedule
These rules apply to most commercial drivers who operate large trucks across state lines. Violating these rules can increase the risk of poor judgment, slower reaction times, or even falling asleep behind the wheel.
How HOS Violations Can Cause Troy Truck Accidents
When drivers ignore hours of service rules, the chance of a crash goes up. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of commercial trucking accidents. A tired driver might drift between lanes or overlook hazards, just to name a few examples of risky behaviors.
Some companies even pressure their drivers to break the rules to meet deadlines. In those cases, both the driver and the trucking company may be held liable. Violations are often uncovered through logbooks, electronic logging devices, GPS data, or even fuel receipts.
What To Do After a Truck Accident in Troy, Michigan
Truck accidents can be overwhelming, but the truth is that what you do afterward matters a lot. If you were involved in a crash, try to take the following steps if you’re able:
- Call 911 and report the crash to police
- Get medical care right away
- Take photos or videos of the scene, vehicles, and your injuries
- Get contact information from any witnesses
- Avoid discussing fault or making any statements about blame
Once you’ve taken care of your immediate health and safety, contact a Troy truck accident lawyer. These cases are complex and often involve large trucking companies and insurance carriers, so having a skilled personal injury attorney can help level the playing field.
Contact Our Truck Accident Attorneys in Troy for Help if You Suspect an HOS Violation
If you were injured in a Troy truck accident and suspect the driver may have been overworked or fatigued, it’s important to speak with a lawyer right away. Hours of service violations are serious and can make the trucking company legally responsible for your injuries. An experienced Troy accident attorney can gather the right records and pursue an insurance claim and/or lawsuit on your behalf.
Contact Khamo Law today at (248) 466-0606 to schedule a free consultation if you’d like to learn more. We’re ready to get to work on your case as soon as you are!