Proposed Changes
For years, the big trucking companies have been lobbying for changes in the “Hours of service” (HOS) laws. HOS is the number of hours a trucker can drive in a day. These are put in place to stop trucking companies from overworking their employees. This is important to anyone who drives because these laws allow truckers to get the proper rest they need in order to stay safe on the road. However, trucking companies don’t look at it as a way to keep innocent drivers safe. They look at it as a cut into their profits. So what’s the issue?
The Transportation Department is looking to move forward with new rules that will deregulate the driving companies. They are framing it in a way to make it seem as if this is beneficial to the drivers, and gives them more flexibility. Whether this is the case or not, the important matter is that it potentially is putting millions of drivers at risk.
The Risks.
If someone is driving while fatigued, it can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. The Center for Disease Control estimates that 72,000 crashes are caused by drowsy driving annually. That’s a lot of accidents. Imagine how much those numbers could rise when these new deregulations are put into place? Let’s get one thing straight. collisions with trucks hauling loads across the highway is a lot more serious and dangerous than your normal crash. This change in policy is more than just a way for truckers to get more money. This can put the lives of other drivers at risk. But, how many risks are these companies willing to take?
What can you do?
If you ever have the misfortune of being involved in an accident with a trucker, call an attorney right away. The big trucking company will come at you with everything they got. You need an attorney who has significant experience in dealing with these companies. Remember, a personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation that you deserve. You can read more about big trucking accidents and how a lawyer can help here. Have you or someone you know ever been involved in a big trucking accident? What happened? Let us know on our Facebook page. If you need some legal advice on your situation, give us a call! The consultation is always free.
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The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS dedicates their time and effort towards helping people in Texas find justice for personal negligence encountered while living their normal, everyday lives.