How Federal Trucking Regulations Impact Your Accident Claim in South Carolina

Truck accidents in South Carolina can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries and significant financial losses. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, understanding federal trucking regulations and how violations can impact your claim is crucial. At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we leverage our over 40 years of combined experience to help victims secure the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys, Catherine F. Juhas and Eric Saleme, have successfully represented numerous clients in truck accident cases, ensuring that their rights are protected and that negligent trucking companies and drivers are held accountable.

Key Federal Trucking Regulations That Affect Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes trucking regulations to promote safety and reduce accidents on U.S. roads. When trucking companies or drivers violate these rules, they can be held accountable for negligence. Below are some key federal regulations that may impact your claim:

1. Hours of Service (HOS) Limits

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. To combat this, the FMCSA enforces Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, which limit the number of hours a driver can be on the road. The rules include:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Truck drivers cannot drive for more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 14-Hour Workday Limit: A trucker cannot be on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours before taking a mandatory break.
• 30-Minute Break Requirement: After driving for 8 consecutive hours, drivers must take a 30-minute break.
• 60/70-Hour Rule: Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days.

If a truck driver involved in your accident violated HOS regulations, CFJ Injury Lawyers can investigate logbooks, GPS data, and electronic logging devices (ELDs) to establish liability. With Attorney Catherine Juhas’ experience in complex legal analysis and litigation and Attorney Eric Saleme’s hands-on approach in personal injury law, our firm is equipped to handle the intricacies of your case.

2. Truck Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

Poorly maintained trucks pose serious risks to all drivers on the road. FMCSA regulations require trucking companies to:

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure brakes, tires, lights, and other components are in safe working condition.
• Maintain detailed records of truck maintenance and repairs.
• Remove trucks with critical safety violations from service immediately.

If mechanical failures contributed to your accident, our attorneys will scrutinize maintenance logs and service records to determine whether a failure to comply with federal regulations played a role in your injuries. With Attorney Juhas’ experience in federal litigation, we can ensure that all legal avenues are explored in holding the trucking company responsible.

3. Drug and Alcohol Testing Requirements

Truck drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing rules, including:

• Pre-employment drug testing
• Random testing throughout employment
• Post-accident testing
• Reasonable suspicion testing

If a truck driver was under the influence at the time of your accident, CFJ Injury Lawyers will obtain test results, police reports, and other evidence to strengthen your case. Our firm has successfully handled cases involving impaired drivers and knows how to uncover the evidence needed to build a strong claim.

4. Weight and Cargo Securement Regulations

Overloaded or improperly secured cargo increases the risk of rollovers and spills. Federal regulations set weight limits and require:

• Proper use of tie-downs, tarps, and bracing
• Compliance with maximum weight restrictions (e.g., 80,000 lbs. for commercial trucks)
• Regular cargo inspections

Our legal team will assess whether cargo violations contributed to your accident and hold the responsible parties accountable.

How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help You Navigate the Truck Accident Process in South Carolina

The legal process after a truck accident can be overwhelming, but CFJ Injury Lawyers is here to guide you every step of the way. Our firm understands the complexities of truck accident cases, from dealing with insurance companies and trucking corporations to gathering crucial evidence that proves negligence.

What sets CFJ Injury Lawyers apart?

• Decades of experience in personal injury and federal litigation
• Comprehensive investigations to uncover violations of federal regulations
• Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies to maximize compensation
• Fluent Spanish-speaking legal services provided by Attorney Eric Saleme
• Dedicated client service with a compassionate approach

We know that truck accident victims face medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. That’s why our firm works tirelessly to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

South Carolina Truck Accident Statistics

Understanding local statistics highlights the seriousness of truck accidents in South Carolina:

• In 2022, 3,200 crashes involving large trucks occurred in South Carolina.
• Tractor-trailers were involved in 22% of all fatal crashes in the state.
• Charleston County has one of the highest rates of truck-related accidents in South Carolina.

(Source: South Carolina Department of Public Safety)

Client Success Stories

Our satisfied clients speak to our commitment:

• “Experience with this law firm was very easy, every step of the way with communication, nothing hidden, no guessing—always knew what was going on.” – Cordell P.
• “CFJ Injury Lawyers was excellent in their representation of my case… patient, polite, and understanding of my circumstances.” – Kebra M.

FAQs About Truck Accident Claims in South Carolina

Q: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in South Carolina?

A: In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time can result in losing your right to compensation.

Q: Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?

A: Liability can extend to multiple parties, including:

• The truck driver (for negligence or rule violations)
• The trucking company (for improper hiring, training, or maintenance)
• The cargo loading company (if improperly secured cargo contributed to the crash)
• Truck manufacturers (if mechanical defects were a factor)

Q: What compensation can I recover in a truck accident case?

A: Victims may be eligible for:

• Medical expenses (current and future treatment)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Punitive damages (in cases of egregious negligence)

Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Let CFJ Injury Lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. Hablamos Español!