Common Trucking Violations That Cause Catastrophic Accidents

Truck accidents are some of the most devastating incidents on the road, largely due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. Unlike standard car crashes, trucking accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, making them a pressing public safety concern. To mitigate these risks, federal and state regulations are in place to ensure that trucking companies and drivers adhere to safety standards. These laws are designed not only to protect truck drivers but also to safeguard passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.

Despite these regulations, violations are rampant in the trucking industry. These infractions significantly increase the likelihood of serious collisions, whether due to negligence, pressure to meet delivery deadlines, or cost-cutting measures. If you’ve been involved in a crash caused by a trucking violation, a truck accident attorney in Baton Rouge can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Hours of Service (HOS) Violations & Driver Fatigue

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces Hours of Service (HOS) regulations to prevent fatigue-related accidents. However, many drivers and companies disregard these rules, often prioritizing speed over safety. Exceeding the legally permitted driving hours, falsifying logbooks, and tampering with electronic logging devices (ELDs) are common ways HOS violations occur. 

Long hours behind the wheel take a toll on a driver’s physical and mental state. Fatigue dulls reflexes, reduces situational awareness, and increases the chances of making mistakes. While rest breaks are mandated, some drivers feel pressured to push through exhaustion to meet unrealistic deadlines set by their employers. The consequences are dire—fatigued drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of severe collisions. Studies indicate that fatigue-related truck crashes account for 13% of all trucking accidents, highlighting the critical need for enforcement.

Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo

Federal laws specify maximum weight limits for trucks and outline proper cargo-securing methods. Ignoring these regulations creates hazardous driving conditions. Overloaded trucks place excessive stress on brakes and tires, making it harder to stop in emergencies. Unsecured cargo, on the other hand, can shift suddenly or spill onto the road, causing multi-vehicle collisions. 

Improper loading techniques also contribute to stability issues. When cargo is unevenly distributed, it alters the truck’s center of gravity, increasing the risk of rollovers. Inadequate securing of freight can lead to shifting loads inside the trailer, making the truck harder to handle. The lack of proper training on cargo handling can exacerbate these risks, as drivers may not always be aware of the safest way to load and secure different types of freight.

These violations, while avoidable, remain prevalent due to cost-cutting measures and inadequate oversight.

Brake & Mechanical Failures Due to Poor Maintenance

Routine truck maintenance is essential to keeping these massive vehicles safe on the road. Unfortunately, some companies neglect inspections to save time and money, leaving drivers operating trucks with worn-out brakes, bald tires, or malfunctioning systems. 

Neglecting mechanical upkeep puts the driver, their cargo, and everyone else on the road at risk. Brake failures, in particular, are among the most dangerous mechanical issues and contribute to nearly 30% of truck-related accidents. Worn-out brake pads, low hydraulic fluid, or failing air brake systems can render a truck uncontrollable in an emergency. Likewise, steering system issues, transmission failures, and tire blowouts can have devastating consequences when they occur at highway speeds. 

Preventative maintenance and stricter penalties for non-compliance are necessary to reduce these risks.

Distracted & Impaired Driving

Truck drivers must remain highly focused while operating such large vehicles, yet distracted and impaired driving remain persistent issues. Some drivers illegally use mobile phones while driving, while others rely on stimulants to combat fatigue—both of which impair judgment and coordination. 

Distractions extend beyond cellphone use. Eating, adjusting the GPS, reaching for items in the cabin, or even daydreaming can divert attention from the road. When drivers lose focus, reaction times slow down, and the ability to anticipate road conditions diminishes. Given the long hours truck drivers spend on the road, even a brief lapse in concentration can have catastrophic results.

Enforcing existing bans on cellphone use and routine drug testing for drivers are crucial steps in addressing this ongoing safety concern.

Reckless Driving & Speeding

Speeding and aggressive driving drastically increase the risks associated with operating large commercial trucks. Many drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight delivery schedules, disregarding the fact that a semi-truck requires significantly more distance to stop than a passenger car.

Beyond speeding, aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and failing to yield contribute to dangerous road conditions. When truck drivers engage in these high-risk behaviors, they not only endanger themselves but also put other motorists at serious risk. The heavy weight and size of a truck amplify the impact of any collision, making it imperative that drivers maintain safe speeds and follow traffic laws

Speed-related crashes often result in more severe injuries and fatalities, underscoring the need for better speed regulation enforcement.

Legal Options for Victims of Truck Accidents

When truck accidents occur due to regulatory violations, multiple parties may be held liable, including:

• The trucking company – for pressuring drivers to violate safety laws or failing to maintain their fleet.
• The truck driver – for reckless or impaired driving.
• Maintenance providers – for failing to inspect or repair faulty equipment.

Victims of truck accidents may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Given the complexities of trucking laws and liability issues, consulting an experienced truck accident attorney is critical to holding negligent parties accountable and securing fair compensation.

Take Action After a Truck Accident

Many truck accidents are preventable, yet they continue to occur due to violations of federal safety laws. From fatigued driving to overloaded cargo and mechanical failures, these infractions place countless lives at risk. Awareness of these dangers, coupled with stricter enforcement of trucking regulations, is essential to making our roads safer.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, legal representation can help navigate the complexities of trucking liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.