The Federal Government’s Recent Attempts to Repeal Safety Measures Applying to the Trucking Industry

In July of this year, Congressman Brian Babin of Texas introduced H.R. 3282 onto the congressional floor. This initiative hopes to delay the expected compliance date for the trucking industry to implement electronic logging device rules. Congressman Babin’s bill was seen as a step in the right direction by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association who hopes to completely repeal the electronic logging device mandate, but advocates for trucker safety regulations feel that such a delay is unnecessary and dangerous.

The electronic logging device rules were mandated by Congress in 2012 with a compliance date set for December of this year. The rules would require commercial interstate trucks to install electronic devices that track and verify the number of hours that truckers spend behind the wheel. These measures will, in theory, force truckers to comply with safety rules, reduce trucker fatigue and lower the overall amount of large truck accidents. Steve Williams, the president of the Alliance for Driver Safety and Security, explains that such measures “must be adopted to reduce large truck accidents, injuries, and fatalities.”

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a large truck accident, then you personally understand how damaging trucking accidents can be. Due to its potential to reduce the amount of destructive large truck accidents, trucker safety regulations should be a high priority for Congress.

When a truck accident occurs, insurance agencies and truckers often work together to gather information that shields them from being required to pay for your personal injury claim. Don’t become a victim of blame-shifting tactics from an insurance agency or trucking company, and never agree to settle your claim for less than you deserve. Attorney Mark A. Smith is trained and experienced in personal injuries resulting from accidents. To gain a trusted advocate and advisor in your fight for compensation, contact the law office of Mark A. Smith at 412-567-9598.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.