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18 Wheeler Legal Requirements Every year trucks, 18-wheelers and tractor trailers are involved in numerous accidents. They carry dangerous loads and have higher insurance requirements than private cars. Driver fatigue is a common reason for truck accidents. The law limits how long truck drivers can drive and also requires them to keep accurate records of their work hours. Weight limit As Americans continue to move away from traditional retail in-person to online commerce the road is becoming increasingly filled with trucks from Amazon, FedEx and other shipping companies. This means that many drivers struggle to keep pace with the speed and maneuverability of these big vehicles. It's a problem for all drivers, however smaller cars and passenger vehicles are having a tough time maneuvering around these massive vehicles. There are laws that govern the legal limit of 18-wheelers. This applies to both the truck itself and the cargo it carries. You must be aware of the legal limitations to avoid driving over and put your life in danger. The maximum gross vehicle weight for trucks is 80,000 pounds. There are different weight limits for axle groups and single axles. Federal Bridge Formula, for instance, limits the weight of an individual axle to 20,000 pounds. Tandem axles, however, are limited to 34,000 lbs. In addition to these regulations states also have their own weight limits for single-axle and axle groups. State-by state, the penalties for exceeding the weight limit vary from fines up to $16,000. In some instances, fines may also be issued by the driver's company. Repeat offenders could also face greater fines. Lane restrictions In addition to weight restrictions, the laws of most states regulate how trucks can travel on highways. Some states, for example prohibit large trucks from operating in the left lane of the multilane highways. This law is intended to prevent cars from following trucks too closely, and potentially causing an accident. In these circumstances, the truck driver would be forced to change lanes, and risk collision with cars who are driving behind them. To be able to pass slower vehicles quickly, they must be in the right-hand lane. Truck drivers should also be able to observe other motor vehicles on the left lane and look for any traffic devices or hazards which require them to make an turn. If they do not adhere to these laws, they put themselves and other drivers at risk of serious accidents. If a motorist is injured due to a truck that has violated the lane restriction laws, they could be entitled to compensation. Trucks require a lot space to move. They have the biggest blind spots on the road. In certain instances, drivers in smaller vehicles cut trucks off when changing lanes, and this can cause them to be jackknifed. Sometimes drivers slow down that trucks are unable to pass them. This puts both parties in danger of a crash. Bumper guards Bumper guards can be a great way to protect your vehicle from damage but you should check with the laws of your state prior to installing them. Some states ban them, while some allow them on vehicles that are parked. These devices are also worthwhile to invest in when parking your vehicle in crowded areas or in cities that have many parallel parking. These devices prevent scratches and dents caused by taller drivers backing up into your truck or SUV. They also help prevent collisions with tree branches. They look like cowcatchers on freight trains, and they're a common feature of off-road vehicles. They push aside brush and other debris and they can even help with headlight protection. There are many ways to install a rubber bumper. These include mat-style protectors and stick-on rubber strips. The most simple to use is the stick-on design, which can be removed in a matter of minutes without leaving any sticky residue. However, it does not provide much protection and does not cover all the corners of your truck. Certain companies offer mat-style protective covers that can be folded up or folded for easy transport and storage. The Luv-Tap is a popular model made from soft cotton that can be adjusted to different sizes of vehicles and is a sought-after product. It also has bright silver reflectors that increase visibility under poor lighting conditions. It comes with two included straps that attach it to the trunk of your car and can be flipped out when needed. Insurance Truck accidents can cause grave injuries and even death. This is the reason state and federal regulations oblige trucking companies to carry more insurance policies than normal passenger cars. 18 wheeler accident lawyer dothan could be worth up to 40 times more than a standard policy. However, trucking insurance companies will do everything they can to avoid paying the victims of accidents. They usually trick injured victims into signing a written statement, or use other tactics to limit their liability. It is crucial to consult with an experienced Denver truck crash attorney in the event of filing an 18 wheeler claim. The requirements for insurance for trucks are complex and differ by jurisdiction. The most popular type of coverage is primary liability, which covers damages to property that the truck causes in an accident. It is an excellent idea to have cargo insurance as well as non-trucking liability. The first protects the truck while it is hauling an item and is often included in the contract between drivers and their carriers. The latter, also referred to “bobtail” coverage, safeguards both the truck and its driver during the time between loads. If you are injured in a tractor trailer accident the insurance limits required for trailers and tractors is much lower than those for passenger automobiles. You will have to fight the insurance firm of the trucking firm for an equitable settlement. A Memphis truck accident attorney will identify all parties that are liable, including the trucking company, the trucker and any dram shops that provided the driver with excessive alcohol.