Will Mississippi’s Roadcheck Reduce Truck Accidents?
Early June in Mississippi will see a familiar sight on the highways—tractor-trailers pulled over for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) annual 72-hour International Roadcheck. This year, the focus is on cargo safety and securement, a critical aspect considering the potential dangers of improperly secured cargo on public roads.
Understanding the International Roadcheck
The CVSA’s International Roadcheck is a proactive measure to enhance the safety of commercial vehicles on the road. Scheduled to begin on June 6, this enforcement initiative will see a substantial number of commercial vehicles undergoing the North American Standard Level I Inspection, which is the most thorough inspection available. The 2016 Roadcheck saw over 62,000 inspections, and a similar number is expected this year. Historically, these inspections have led to significant findings; in 2016, for instance, more than 21 percent of the vehicles inspected were removed from service due to critical violations, most commonly related to braking issues and hours of service breaches.
The Role of Attorneys in Ensuring Road Safety
When truck accidents occur due to safety violations like those targeted by the Roadcheck, the consequences can be severe. Truck accident attorneys play a crucial role in such scenarios, advocating for the rights of those injured by negligent commercial vehicle operations. These legal professionals examine the finer details of each case, from the truck’s maintenance and cargo securement records to the specific violations noted during inspections like the Roadcheck.
Litigating Truck Accident Claims
Attorneys specializing in truck accidents are adept at navigating the complex regulations governing commercial vehicles. In the event of an accident, they meticulously review all relevant evidence, including police reports, accident investigation findings, and the vehicle’s compliance with federal and state safety standards. This comprehensive approach is crucial for establishing liability and helping victims secure rightful compensation.
Personal injury attorneys often face the challenge of proving that negligence, such as failing to secure cargo properly, directly led to an accident. By leveraging data from initiatives like the CVSA’s Roadcheck, attorneys can more effectively demonstrate how non-compliance with safety regulations increases risk and leads to accidents.
Preventative Measures and Legal Implications
The Roadcheck also serves a preventive function by encouraging truck operators to adhere to safety norms to avoid penalties and potential downtime. The CVSA offers educational resources, such as flyers on cargo safety, reminding drivers of the importance of securing loads and regularly checking tie-downs for damage or wear.
In cases where accidents occur, proving negligence involves demonstrating that the truck driver or company failed to follow these well-publicized safety protocols. Attorneys are crucial in this process, helping to translate complex accident reports and safety violations into strong legal arguments for compensation.
Conclusion
As Mississippi gears up for the CVSA’s International Roadcheck, both commercial drivers and the general public can expect heightened safety measures on the roads. For those affected by truck accidents, particularly those involving safety violations uncovered during such checks, legal recourse remains a vital avenue. Skilled attorneys ensure that the enforcement of safety standards is not just about compliance but about compensating and supporting those impacted by negligence on the roads.
