Arkansas tractor-trailer accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes on the road, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of large commercial trucks.
While drivers are often held accountable for accidents, the trucking companies behind them can also be responsible for the dangerous practices that lead to these tragedies. A recent truck crash involving falsified driver logs is a tragic example of how trucking companies' negligence can put countless lives at risk.
Negligence and liability of trucking companies in fatal accidents
Trucking companies are required by federal law to ensure their drivers comply with various safety regulations. These include maintaining accurate records of driving hours and ensuring drivers get adequate rest.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict limits on how many hours a driver can be on the road before taking a mandatory break. These laws exist for a good reason: fatigued drivers are a danger to everyone on the road, as they have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and an increased likelihood of causing an accident.
In a recent example that captured national attention, a trucking company pressured the 18-wheeler driver to falsify hours-of-service logs, leading them to drive beyond legal limits without rest. Fatigued, the driver lost focus and caused a fatal crash, highlighting the shared responsibility between the driver and the company for violating safety regulations.
Whether it's for falsifying logs, another type of safety violation, or negligent behavior, trucking companies can and should be held legally liable for the accidents they cause. It's the law.
Examples of trucking company negligence
In addition to falsifying driver logs, trucking companies can engage in numerous negligent practices that increase the likelihood of accidents. These practices not only endanger their drivers but also everyone else on the road. Some common types of trucking company negligence include:
- Failure to Properly Train Drivers. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that all drivers are adequately trained and qualified to operate large commercial vehicles safely.
- Ignoring Maintenance Requirements. Trucks need regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Failing to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical components can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
- Overloading or Improper Loading of Cargo. Exceeding weight limits or improperly securing cargo can make a truck harder to control, especially in emergency situations.
- Pushing Drivers to Meet Unrealistic Schedules. When companies impose tight deadlines, drivers may feel pressured to drive longer than is legally allowed or skip necessary breaks to meet delivery targets.
- Negligent Hiring Practices. Companies must thoroughly vet their drivers before hiring, ensuring they have a clean driving record and no history of substance abuse or unsafe driving.
- Failure to Monitor Driver Behavior. Companies should have systems in place to review driver logs, behavior, and safety compliance regularly. Failing to monitor drivers closely can result in risky behavior going unchecked.
- Not Enforcing Federal Regulations. Simply put, companies must comply with all FMCSA regulations. Failing to enforce these rules increases the risk of accidents.
When a trucking company's negligence leads to a serious or fatal crash, the victims or their families have the right to seek compensation. Truck accident cases are complex, often involving multiple parties — from the driver to the trucking company to third-party maintenance providers. An experienced truck accident lawyer can thoroughly investigate the incident, uncovering any violations of federal regulations or signs of negligence.
Compensation for Arkansas truck accident victims
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers comply with federal safety regulations, including maintaining accurate logs of driving hours. When these companies allow or even encourage drivers to falsify logs, they put lives at risk. Victims of such crashes may be entitled to significant compensation due to the company's gross negligence.
At McDaniel Law Firm, PLC, our Arkansas truck accident lawyers have years of experience fighting for injured victims. We know that holding trucking companies accountable not only provides justice for victims but also forces these companies to prioritize safety over profits, helping prevent future accidents. If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a truck accident, contact us for a free case evaluation. A member of our team is available to hear from you, answer questions, and explain your legal options.
"If you have a case and are unsure how to proceed, these are the guys to call. After my free consultation, they looked at my facts and we decided the evidence was favorable. Can't say enough about the firm listening and helping me through a grievous time." - Kenny W.
