Accidents involving an unsafe semi driver who violated a federal regulation should be reported to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), an arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that regulates interstate commercial vehicle transportation. If you or a loved one has been in an accident with a semi truck, I can do an independent investigation and help you file a report.
You should contact me about doing an independent accident investigation and filing report HERE.
The most common complaints to FMCSA involve:
- Hours of Service: A truck driver drives more hours than permitted by regulation. Some drivers have admitted to FMCSA that they record false entries in their logbooks to hide excessive driving. There are a number of possible reasons for this, one of which is that the trucking company has asked them or forced them to do it. The hours of service regulations are in place to prevent truck drivers from falling asleep at the wheel or getting too tired to use good judgment.
- Unqualified Driver/Drugs and Alcohol: Some motor carriers (trucking companies and others) use drivers who are not physically qualified, medically examined and certified, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. FMCSA regulations are very specific regarding these issues. In fact, FMCSA recently finalized a rule that modified the existing regulations to clarify the prescription exception to drug use by commercial truck drivers.
- Unsafe Equipment: Truck drivers, trucking companies and other motor carriers are supposed to make sure all parts of the semi tractor and trailer are in good working order. Truck drivers are supposed to check the rig before they get on the road. Unsafe equipment, particularly brakes and hitches, are the cause of many accidents. In addition, every 18-wheeler vs. car accident should be investigated to determine if a manufacturer of a part can be pursued for victim compensation. This is not a FMCSA issue, but a product liability issue.
After I file a report on your behalf with FMCSA, it will be forwarded to DOT for handling. If the complaint meets certain standards, DOT will investigate. As your attorney, I would follow this investigation closely and conduct my own independent investigation.
Eric Hageman represents semi truck accident victims and their families nationwide. His knowledge of the FMCSA regulations has resulted in him winning cases initially thought unwinnable. He is available for a free consultation at 1-888-377-8900 (toll free) or by submitting our free consultation form.
