Understanding and obeying safety standards and rules while driving are very important in avoiding New Mexico truck accidents. This is especially true when drivers are operating a large commercial vehicle. The importance is highlighted by the implementation of certain federal regulatory agencies that guide the specific standards that commercial truck drivers must follow.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is one such agency that guides these drivers. Although states may have some additional rules and regulations, the drivers must still follow the rules set forth by the FMCSA.
In order to receive a license, the individual must test for and receive a commercial learner’s permit, they must have this permit for 14 days, and then they must take a road skills test. The skills test is extremely important because this determines whether the driver is proficient enough in both the knowledge and practical skills of driving a large vehicle. However, each state’s test may vary slightly, and this variation can lead to drivers with varying skill levels traveling on shared roads. Furthermore, the passing score is only 80%. Fortunately, certain vehicle licenses require additional endorsements that indicate a higher level of skill. These include school buses and vehicles carrying hazardous products.
In addition to the federal standards, trucking companies often have their own additional standards. Issues arise when trucking companies fail to monitor their drivers and ensure that their skills are up-to-date and relevant to the exact truck they are driving. A failure to do this can have disastrous consequences, including accidents and fatalities.
Father and Young Daughter Killed in Accident with Tractor-Trailer
Earlier this month, news reports indicated that a 27-year-old man and his three-year-old daughter were killed when the car in which they were passengers was rear-ended by a semi-tractor-trailer. According to the police officials, the accident happened in the late morning and involved four vehicles. The chain-reaction accident began when a tractor-trailer rear-ended a sedan. The tractor-trailer and sedan ended up in a roadside ditch, and the other two cars remained on the highway. The tractor-trailer driver and his passenger were the only ones who were not injured in the accident. The crash is under investigation, and police have indicated that alcohol does not seem to be a factor. However, the case is being investigated by the local prosecutor’s office.
Have You Been Injured in a Trucking Accident in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Mexico truck accident, you should contact the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm. New Mexico truck accident lawsuits will often involve multiple parties because of the disastrous impact of an accident with such a large vehicle. An attorney at the Fine Law Firm can assist you in determining where liability lies and how to recoup damages for your injuries. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you sustained. Contact the Fine Law Firm today at 800-640-6590 to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
How Witness Credibility Comes into Play in New Mexico Personal Injury Cases, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, February 20, 2018.
Court Affirms Judgment in Favor of Plaintiff in Recent Truck Accident Case, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, March 20, 2018.