Understanding Trucking Laws and Regulations

Seeking compensation after a big rig crash in Nevada may be challenging. However, having a solid understanding of state and federal laws regulating the trucking industry can help you identify potential violations that may have caused or contributed to the 18-wheeler collision. This may assist in establishing liability and strengthening your bodily injury claim. Working with an experienced Las Vegas trucking accident attorney can provide you with a better understanding of your rights and available options for financial recovery under Nevada law.

Overview of Trucking Regulations in Nevada

Nevada’s trucking laws are a combination of state-specific rules and federal guidelines. These are designed to ensure road safety for everyone. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides federal regulations, while Nevada’s rules are implemented in the state vehicle code. Federal regulations and state-specific rules cover a wide array of aspects, from securing cargo and rules for commercial vehicle inspection to training requirements and driver licensing. Below are a few key regulations to be aware of:

• Truck maintenance and inspection rules ensure vehicles are in safe working condition. Regular inspections may help prevent mechanical issues that may cause or contribute to big rig crashes. Commercial vehicles must undergo annual safety inspections. Drivers are also required to perform pre-trip, on-the-road, and post-trip inspections.
• Size and weight restrictions are in place to protect bridges and roads from damage. Trucking companies must comply with size and weight restrictions or risk facing fines and penalties. Given Nevada’s high-traffic urban areas and terrain, following these rules is crucial for maintaining roadway safety.
• Hours of Service (HOS) regulations restrict the amount of time truck drivers can work without taking breaks. HOS is designed to reduce driver fatigue, a major factor in 18-wheeler collisions. Nevada strictly enforces these regulations, requiring drivers to accurately log their hours.

Common Reasons for Big Rig Crashes

Semi-truck crashes often occur due to a mix of contributing factors, including:

• Fatigued drivers
• Excessive speed
• Aggressive driving behaviors
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
• Cargo that is not properly balanced or is overloaded
• Not adapting to changing traffic or weather conditions
• Distracted driving, such as texting or calling on a cell phone
• Mechanical issues stemming from poor vehicle maintenance

Liability in Semi-Truck Collisions

Establishing liability after a big rig crash in Nevada is important for seeking reimbursement of economic and non-economic damages. However, handling personal injury and wrongful death claims arising from commercial truck accidents are far more complex than typical car accident cases. In a standard passenger vehicle collision, fault is usually assigned to one or more drivers involved. Conversely, liability in a big rig crash may involve several parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, third-party cargo handlers, vehicle manufacturers, and more.

An experienced truck accident attorney in Las Vegas can investigate your case, identify all responsible parties, and ensure they are held financially accountable for your losses. This often requires negotiating with insurance companies, a challenging task that you should not have to manage while recovering from serious injuries or grieving the loss of a loved one. Insurers have trained claims adjusters, vast resources, and defense attorneys to minimize payouts, making it challenging for claimants to seek compensation without legal representation.

Your right to compensation is also influenced by Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, a plaintiff may seek compensation only if their percentage of fault for the incident does not exceed that of the defendants. If you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault for a crash, you may not be entitled to recovery of damages incurred. Retaining legal counsel can help you navigate the process by building a strong case that properly establishes liability and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

If you were injured in a big rig crash in Nevada, our legal team from Southwest Injury Law is here to help you explore your options. Reach out to us today for a free consultation with a skilled and knowledgeable Las Vegas truck accident lawyer. Call our law office at (702) 600-3200 or fill out an online contact form today.