The Federal Fair Labor Standards Act does not apply to interstate trucking, and companies often require drivers to work 60 hours or more per week without guaranteed overtime pay. Most drivers are paid by the mile or load, meaning that they must work long hours at a fast pace to be successful. Despite the best efforts of most truckers and drivers, accidents occur frequently.
Problems Involving Interstate Truckers
Because of the long hours, tiredness and stress are common – leading to trucking accidents in Upper Marlboro. These collisions are typically severe, more so for the other motorists involved. A passenger car almost always sustains heavy damage in a trucking accident, and personal injury suits are quite common.
The Federal government implemented the FMCSR (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations) to protect passenger car and truck drivers, and the regulations are the standard by which truck drivers and carriers are judged.
How the FMCSR Works
The FMCSR is intended to prevent and reduce Trucking Accidents, injuries and fatalities by requiring drivers to be commercially licensed, and by excluding drivers who have a record of unsafe operation. Some of the most important regulations are:
* Minimum CDL (commercial driver’s license) requirements: basic skills and knowledge, random drug testing, Federal background check
* Minimum insurance coverage level: Each interstate carrier is required to have at least $500,000 in coverage, with the amount rising to $1,000,000 per carrier if engaging in interstate transport of hazardous materials
* Operation hours: including on- and off-duty hours, and time in the truck’s sleeper birth
* Driver’s physical qualifications
If I’m in an Accident, do I need a Trucking or Interstate Commerce Lawyer?
Most cases brought against interstate carriers involve wrongful death or personal injury. In the event of a trucking accident, it is best to call an attorney that handles trucking cases; they can offer legal advice based on experience, and they can protect your interests.
Those employed as truck drivers or working for motor carriers have certain legal rights in the event of Trucking Accidents in Upper Marlboro. If you’re a truck driver who has been involved in an accident, call a trucking accident lawyer in your area. For more information, visit the website Jaklitschlawgroup.com.
