Is Your Mississippi Truck Safe Enough for This Year’s Roadcheck?
Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) conducts an extensive nationwide inspection known as the International Roadcheck. This event is critical for commercial truck and bus drivers in Mississippi, as it aims to ensure compliance with safety regulations, both for drivers and their vehicles. The 72-hour inspection blitz is designed to remove unsafe drivers and vehicles from the roads, protecting everyone who shares them.
Focus on Hours-of-Service Compliance
The 2024 International Roadcheck is scheduled for June 5-7, and this year’s focus will be on hours-of-service regulations. These rules are crucial because they prevent driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck accidents. The introduction of the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate by the U.S. Department of Transportation in December 2017 has made it easier for inspectors to enforce these regulations. ELDs automatically record driving hours, reducing the likelihood of falsified logs, which was a common issue with paper logs.
During the Roadcheck, inspectors will perform Level I inspections on most vehicles, thoroughly examining both driver and vehicle compliance. Any violations, particularly those related to hours-of-service, could result in out-of-service orders, which means the driver or vehicle will be sidelined until the issue is resolved.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
In 2017, over 63,000 drivers were inspected during the International Roadcheck, with more than 15,000 receiving out-of-service orders. Hours-of-service violations, along with brake violations, were the most common reasons for these orders. For drivers, this not only disrupts their schedules but can also have long-term impacts on their careers.
Non-compliance can lead to serious legal consequences, especially if an accident occurs as a result of violations. Victims of such accidents may seek compensation through legal channels, which is where car accident attorneys can play a vital role. They help injured parties navigate the complexities of truck accident claims, ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable.
Why Trucking Companies Should Care
Trucking companies also face significant risks if their vehicles or drivers are found to be non-compliant. An out-of-service order can lead to delays, financial losses, and damage to the company’s reputation. Furthermore, if a truck involved in an accident is found to have violated safety regulations, the company could be held liable for damages.
For companies, it’s essential to ensure that all trucks and drivers meet the required safety standards before the Roadcheck begins. Regular maintenance checks, proper documentation, and adherence to hours-of-service rules are critical steps in avoiding costly penalties. Personal injury attorneys can provide guidance on minimizing legal risks and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
The Role of Attorneys in Truck Accident Cases
When accidents occur involving commercial trucks, the consequences can be devastating. Victims may face severe injuries, lost wages, and mounting medical bills. In such cases, attorneys experienced in handling truck accident claims can be invaluable. They assist victims in gathering evidence, such as hours-of-service records and vehicle inspection reports, to build a strong case against negligent parties.
These attorneys work to secure compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related costs. By holding trucking companies and drivers accountable for their actions, they help improve safety standards across the industry.
Preparing for the Roadcheck
As the International Roadcheck approaches, Mississippi truck drivers and companies must take proactive steps to ensure compliance. Regularly reviewing hours-of-service logs, conducting thorough vehicle inspections, and ensuring that all drivers are well-rested and prepared for the road are essential measures. Failure to comply not only risks out-of-service orders but also increases the likelihood of accidents and legal repercussions.
