Many of our readers in Louisiana are used to seeing large trucks on the roads with them when they are on their daily commute. For the most part, the drivers of these large trucks are paying attention to their jobs and are operating the trucks safely. However, there are always those who are not obeying the rules and regulations for truck drivers, which are intended to prevent truck accidents and keep everyone on the roads safe. Hours-of-service rules, for example, may be violated by truck drivers and, as a result, other drivers and their passengers in Louisiana may be put in danger.
The majority of the larger trucks we see on the road are transporting goods throughout the state and the country. The drivers of these types of trucks are allowed to drive for no more than 11 hours per day, as long as they have had 10 consecutive hours of off-duty time preceding that drive time. There is also the “60/70” hour rule, under which truck drivers are not allowed to drive if they have been on duty for more than 60 hours in a seven-day period, or 70 hours in an eight-day period.
Although it is common these days to see media reports about distracted and drunk drivers who cause accidents on the roads in Louisiana, “drowsy driving” is also a major concern. A person who is behind the wheel of a vehicle and who is not properly rested can be just as dangerous as a drunk or distracted driver. That is especially true if such a driver is behind the wheel of a large vehicle, like a semi-truck.
Truck accidents can cause a massive amount of damage and leave accident victims with significant injuries. Many of those in Louisiana who has been injured in such an accident may have legal options to attempt to pursue financial compensation.
