If you ever wonder how much more responsibility comes with a truck over a car or smaller vehicle, think of the size and the weight difference. A trucker has to control tons of metal and cargo, so the driver’s abilities and equipment have to meet certain standards for the safety of everyone on the road.
- What sort of problems can cause commercial vehicle accidents?
Trucks, tankers and trailers often contain specialized cargo that can be dangerous in the wrong circumstances. Even less hazardous cargo can shift easily if it is not properly secured. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) estimates that improperly stored cargo and other trucking violations often contribute to deadly truck crashes.
- Who regulates trucks and trucking?
The Motor Carrier Enforcement Division of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s (NCDPS) State Highway Patrol is responsible for spotting trucking violations and correcting them. They also can audit and inspect trucks for preventative reasons.
- Do they run the weigh stations I see on the highways?
Yes. Those stations often exist to ensure proper taxation and accounting for goods, but they can also be the platform for enforcement officers to notice problems with trucks before they result in accidents.
- What can drivers or passengers do after a truck accident?
Medical attention is always the first priority, and documentation is usually next. An attorney can always help work out options for victims of truck crashes, which can include a civil lawsuit for financial damages and other sorts of claims. No one should have to try and deal with the consequences of an unexpected accident alone.