Hours of Service Requirements: An Overview

Ensuring Safety in the Trucking Industry: A Guide for Oregon Drivers

Long-haul truckers have strict regulations regarding the amount of time they can spend behind the wheel. These regulations are crucial because big rigs are significantly larger and more dangerous than passenger vehicles, and they can cause severe injuries to innocent drivers in the event of an accident. However, the trucking industry's time-is-money mentality sometimes leads truckers or trucking companies to push the limits of safety.

If you've been struck by a tractor-trailer in Portland or anywhere in Oregon, it’s essential to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer who can review the trucker’s hours of service log to ensure compliance with safety rules. If any violations are found, your lawyer will aggressively fight to hold the responsible parties accountable.

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Understanding Hours of Service Regulations

Every truck driver must accurately record their driving time, resting periods, and sleeping hours to ensure safety on the road. Here are the key regulations:

1. Driving Time Limits:
   • A truck driver cannot drive for more than 11 hours after taking a 10-hour break.
   • These 11 hours of driving must be completed within a 14-hour window, after which the driver must take another 10-hour break.
   • Within the 11 hours of driving, the driver is required to take a 30-minute break after 8 consecutive hours of driving.
2. Weekly Driving Limits:
   • Truckers are not allowed to drive more than 70 hours in any 8-day period.
   • This 8-day period floats, meaning it doesn't reset automatically after hitting the 70-hour mark. For example, if a driver starts a work period on a Saturday and the period ends on a Sunday, the hours reset day-by-day; thus, on Monday, the hours from the previous Saturday drop off, and the 8-day period begins with the previous Sunday. This floating period ensures truckers take days off between hauls to rest adequately.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to driver fatigue, which significantly increases the risk of accidents. At Johnson Law, we have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact truck accidents can have on passenger vehicle occupants. The size disparity between a tractor-trailer and a car means the smaller vehicle usually takes the brunt of the impact, often resulting in catastrophic injuries for its occupants.

Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is critical to have a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer on your side. At Johnson Law, our experienced attorneys can:

• Review Hours of Service Logs: Ensure that the truck driver was compliant with federal and state regulations at the time of the accident.
• Investigate the Accident: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.
• Hold Responsible Parties Accountable: Whether it's the truck driver, the trucking company, or both, we will fight to ensure they are held accountable for their negligence.
• Secure Fair Compensation: We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact Us

At Johnson Law, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases and the severe impact they can have on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been struck by a tractor-trailer, contact a Portland truck accident lawyer at Johnson Law today for a free consultation. We are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the justice you deserve.

How Truck Accident Claims Differ from Car Accident Claims

Truck accident claims can be more complex than car accident claims due to:

• Federal and State Regulations: Truck drivers and companies must comply with specific regulations.
• Multiple Parties Involved: Liability may extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, maintenance providers, and manufacturers.
• Severe Injuries: The size and weight of trucks often result in more severe injuries and higher medical costs.

The Importance of Prompt Legal Action

Taking prompt legal action is crucial for several reasons:

• Preservation of Evidence: Critical evidence can be lost or destroyed if not promptly secured.
• Statute of Limitations: Oregon law imposes time limits on filing personal injury claims.
• Strengthening Your Case: Early legal intervention can help build a stronger case with fresh evidence and witness testimony.

At Johnson Law, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you have any questions or need assistance with your truck accident claim, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Your well-being and recovery are our top priorities.

The Role of Technology in Truck Accident Investigations

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

• What Are ELDs?: Devices that automatically record driving time to ensure compliance with Hours of Service regulations.
• How They Help: ELDs provide accurate data on driving hours, rest breaks, and vehicle movements, which can be critical in an accident investigation.

Dashboard Cameras

• Video Evidence: Dashboard cameras can capture footage of the road and driver behavior, providing crucial evidence in the event of a collision.

Telematics

• Data Collection: Telematics systems track vehicle speed, location, braking patterns, and more. This data can help reconstruct accidents and determine fault.

Emotional and Psychological Impact of Truck Accidents

Coping with Trauma

• Seek Professional Help: Consider counseling or therapy to deal with the emotional aftermath of an accident.
• Support Groups: Joining support groups can provide a sense of community and shared experience.

Compensation for Emotional Distress

• Documenting Emotional Impact: Keep a journal of your emotional state and seek evaluations from mental health professionals to support your claim for emotional distress damages.

Safety Tips for Sharing the Road with Trucks

Maintain a Safe Distance

• Stay Out of Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. Ensure you are visible to the truck driver.
• Allow for Extra Space: Give trucks plenty of room to maneuver, especially when they are turning or changing lanes.

Be Cautious When Passing

• Pass Quickly and Safely: Don’t linger beside a truck. Pass on the left side and ensure you can see the truck in your rearview mirror before merging back in front.
• Signal Early: Use your signals well in advance to indicate your intentions.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Physical Injuries

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Caused by head impact or violent shaking.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Can result in partial or total paralysis.
• Broken Bones: Common due to the force of the impact.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs which may not be immediately apparent.

Long-term Health Implications

• Chronic Pain: Injuries may lead to ongoing pain and require long-term treatment.
• Disability: Severe injuries might result in permanent disability, affecting quality of life and earning capacity.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and the information provided here may not apply to your specific situation. If you have been involved in a truck accident or any other legal matter, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified attorney who can provide personalized guidance based on the facts of your case. Contacting Johnson Law does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your legal needs.