Mount Ayr Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Trucking accidents on the extensive highway networks frequently cause significant disruptions, often leading to serious injuries. In such difficult circumstances, trucking injury attorneys serve as reliable supporters, offering survivors guidance and aid. These attorneys are experts in the intricate landscape of trucking laws and regulations.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations for Commercial Truck Maintenance

The trucking industry operates under the strict regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), with one critical area being the maintenance of commercial trucks. Ensuring that big rigs are well-maintained is not just a matter of compliance but also a vital aspect of road safety. Here, we outline the FMCSA's key maintenance regulations, the responsibilities of inspectors, and the importance of keeping essential truck equipment in top condition.

Examples of FMCSA Truck Maintenance Regulations

Several federal regulations govern the maintenance of large trucks. Some of these regulations include:

- Recordkeeping of inspections, repairs, and maintenance performed.
- Correcting any violations or defects noted on roadside inspection reports.
- Completing post-trip inspection reports at the end of each driving period.
- Conducting periodic inspections at least once every 12 months.

FMCSA Regulations for Inspectors

Certain inspections, particularly those involving critical components like brakes, require inspectors with specialized qualifications. Brake inspectors must possess adequate training and experience, and truck companies must keep evidence of these qualifications on file throughout the inspector’s employment and for one year thereafter.

While inspectors can be held liable for injuries resulting from poor maintenance, the ultimate responsibility lies with the truck company. Thus, if an accident is suspected to have been caused by inadequate truck maintenance, the motor carrier company will likely be named in any resulting claims.

Important Equipment for Truck Safety

Proper maintenance extends beyond brakes to include other essential truck components such as:

- Lights
- Reflectors
- Windshield wipers
- Steering mechanisms
- Emergency equipment
- Tires
- Wheels/rims
- Horn
- Rearview mirrors
- Coupling devices

All inspection, repair, and maintenance records must be kept at the vehicle’s garage location and retained for six months after the vehicle is sold, scrapped, or otherwise disposed of. If poor maintenance is determined to have caused a crash, the truck company can be deemed negligent and liable for any resulting injuries.

Truck Accident Insurance and Why to Conduct an Accident Investigation

Truck accidents differ significantly from those involving only passenger cars, not just in the severity of injuries but also in the claims process. Proving negligence on the part of the trucking company is often necessary, requiring a thorough accident investigation.

Reasons to Conduct a Truck Accident Investigation

Insurance companies representing truck companies are known to aggressively defend their clients. They may use investigators to gather evidence, sometimes employing tactics to diminish or deny claims. Therefore, preserving and collecting evidence is crucial.

Much of the evidence needed—such as employee records, maintenance records, and hours of service records—must be obtained from the truck company. Unfortunately, there can be efforts to alter or destroy this evidence. Trucking companies are required to retain hours of service records for six months.

Securing an attorney can be vital. An Iowa personal injury attorney can issue a spoliation letter to ensure the preservation of necessary documentation, devices, and records, facilitating a more thorough investigation.

Other Reasons to Hire an Iowa Personal Injury Attorney

Insurance companies may request actions or paperwork that could damage a victim’s claim. Without legal guidance, a victim might unknowingly sign documents that hurt their case. Moreover, insurance companies often push for quick settlements, which might not cover future medical expenses and other costs adequately. An attorney can help prove the trucking company’s negligence and negotiate a fair settlement.

How Does a City Truck Accident Claim Differ from a Regular Truck Accident?

City truck accident claims differ from regular truck accident claims primarily because they involve government entities. These claims must be filed through City Hall rather than with an insurance company.

Filing a City Truck Accident Claim

City trucks include fire engines, buses, utility vehicles, and garbage trucks. Victims can fill out an Automobile Claim Form and submit it to the Legal Department at City Hall. This form requires information about the vehicle, injuries, witnesses, and a description of the accident, along with relevant documents and evidence such as photos of injuries and damage, and two damage estimates.

If the city denies the claim, victims may pursue a lawsuit to recover damages, with the assistance of a personal injury attorney to ensure the claim is comprehensive and accurate.

Contacting Walker, Billingsley & Bair

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis and manage all necessary documentation and communications.

Walker, Billingsley & Bair is prepared to act fast to defend your rights after a truck accident in Iowa. Contact our office at 641-792-3595 to speak with an attorney.