Has the Coronavirus Impacted South Carolina Truck Safety?
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has introduced unprecedented circumstances for everyone, including residents of South Carolina. In response to this deadly virus, federal and state governments have issued historic declarations that restrict the actions of residents, including closing some businesses and prohibiting large gatherings.
Coronavirus Actions that Affect Safety
Some of the actions taken may, however, have the opposite effect. As part of the federal response, nationwide commercial trucking regulations that strictly control how much time a driver can spend behind the wheel have been relaxed. This is included in a declaration by the US Department of Transportation that you can read here.
In similar actions, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has now issued four executive orders declaring unique states of emergency based on the changing threats and challenges presented by the virus. Those executive orders, and all others issued by the governor, can be found here. Included in them are provisions that allow commercial trucks to procure a free overweight permit that allows them to carry incredibly heavy loads to ensure that essential goods are provided when and where needed.
South Carolina Motorists Should Exercise Caution
Although traffic patterns have been reduced by stay-at-home orders statewide, essential workers and others needing basic supplies still must travel the roadways. South Carolina motorists should be aware that they are sharing these roadways with overworked commercial truck drivers who have had insufficient amounts of rest.
Moreover, these exhausted drivers are pulling extremely heavy loads, far over the normal weight limits that were established for safety purposes. An overloaded truck can require almost three miles to come to a complete stop from normal highway speeds. Plus, tired drivers will have slower response times, increasing the risks of a serious accident.
CFJ Injury Lawyers, with office in North Charleston, SC, want you to know that you could be eligible to recover compensation if you are in a motor vehicle accident with an overloaded commercial truck being driven by a tired professional driver. Due to the coronavirus contingency orders, the case may have added complexities, which is why you need the experienced help of CFJ Injury Lawyers.
We possess the needed knowledge and skills to successfully pursue your claim. Call us at (843) 553-0007 if you or a loved one are involved in a trucking accident.
Posted on behalf of CFJ Injury Lawyers