Tractor Trailer Accident Questions
What Type of Insurance Is Required for Tractor Trailers?
Federal law requires a tractor trailer or a vehicle with a weight rating for 10,001 or more pounds to have at least $750,000.00 in coverage. If they carry hazardous materials, the limits can be upwards of $5,000,000.00. (49 Code of Federal Regulations § 387.9)
Are There Different Insurance Coverages in a Tractor Trailer Accident?
Yes, there can be coverage on the tractor cab, the driver, the company, and also coverage on the trailer. There can be multiple layers of coverage. This also means that the more coverage that exists, the bigger the fight with their insurance companies.
How Many Hours Can a Truck Driver Drive?
Truck drivers have a “daily” driving limit of 11 hours of driving time that must be followed by a 10-hour “off-duty” period before they can drive again. There are some exceptions to this rule that can be found on the DOT website.
What Is a Truck Driver’s Log?
Federal law requires that drivers maintain a written or electronic log of their drive times and the rest times. This log must cover 24 hours of every day. View Here.
What Happens if a Truck Driver Falsifies a Driver’s Log?
Authorized government inspectors can check the logs at any time. If they contain any false information or do not otherwise conform to the regulations, a driver can be fined and/or placed out of service.
How Do I View a Trucking Company’s Driving Record?
You can go to https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx and enter the name of the company to find information about their crash reports, classification, cargo loads, and safety rating.
What Type of License Is Needed to Drive a Truck in Maryland?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration requires a truck driver to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
What Type of Training Is Needed to Get a CDL License in Maryland?
A CDL has certain physical qualifications and various tests that must be passed, including a skills test. (https://mva.maryland.gov/Documents/DL-151.pdf)
What Type of License Is Needed to Drive a Truck in Washington, D.C.?
DC requires a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). (https://dmv.dc.gov/service/obtain-commercial-driver-license)
Do Trucks Have to Have More Insurance Than Cars?
It depends on the size, weight, and commercial use of the truck.
I Saw Damage to the Truck in My Accident. What Should I Do?
Your lawyer should take all steps to inspect that truck and trailer, prior to any repairs.
What Can I Get Compensated for in a Truck Crash Case?
You can make a claim for your property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and any other out of pockets expenses you have incurred because of the crash. You may also make a claim for future medical expenses, future lost income, and any pain and suffering that resulted from the crash.
** FAQs are not a substitute for legal advice and should not be relied upon. **