If you witness any large truck or trucking company driving negligently or dangerously, you have the option to report the behavior to law enforcement and also to government agencies. If you suffered injuries as a result of a trucking accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries.

Call 911

The safest course of action if you see negligent or reckless behavior by a large truck or trucking company that could cause a dangerous accident or emergency is to call 911 immediately. Never hesitate to contact law enforcement as this will ensure your safety as well as the safety of all other drivers and passengers on the roadways. Make sure to give the operator all the information regarding the truck driver, along with a description of the vehicle and a license plate if possible.

FMCSA Complaints

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is a division of the Department of Transportation (DOT) issues federal trucking regulations and laws. If you are not in immediate danger, but witness that a large truck is driving recklessly or negligently, you may contact the FMCSA at a later time regarding your report. You may file a complaint against a truck driver or a trucking company.

Complaints filed regarding reckless or unsafe driving of a truck can include:

  • Recklessly driving or speeding
  • Distracted driving or texting while driving
  • Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Truck drivers are allowed to also file complaints against their employers. If your employer is violating any of the FMCSA laws, you have the right under the law to file a complaint. Some of the types of complaints you may file may include violations of the following: you may be able to do so for the following reasons:

  • Hours of Service. Failure to require truck drivers to take breaks or rests stops, or requiring truck drivers to drive more than the legally allowable amount of time.
  • Failure to inspect and maintain trucking vehicles according to established regulations.
  • Failure to maintain appropriate and accurate logbooks that are required to identify the hours on the road and maintenance done on trucks.

A National Consumer Complaint Database at the DOT records all complaints against trucking companies. If any company appears to be a repeat offender or violator of trucking regulations or laws, they may be fined or even more aggressive actions may be taken.

Contact an Experienced Accident Lawyer 

If you suffered injuries as a victim of a trucking accident due to an unsafe truck driver, or unsafe practices from trucking companies, you may have the right to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages or even pain and suffering. Schedule a free initial consultation with the experienced personal injury attorneys at the O’Donnell Law Offices serving clients in Kingston, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton and Pittston. There is no fee or costs until we win your case.

https://www.odonnell-law.com/2020/02/07/what-to-do-if-youve-been-hit-by-a-car-while-walking/

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