In New Mexico, trucking companies must ensure that their drivers abide by all safety rules and regulations. A variance from the rules and regulations not only can result in truckers and their employers incurring hefty fees, but also it can cause serious or deadly injuries to other drivers.
All truck drivers in New Mexico need to possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). In order to initially receive a CDL, the driver must take and pass a written test, then receive a CDL learner’s permit, and finally take a skills driving test. Additionally, drivers must participate in a commercial driver medical exam and receive a medical certificate. Moreover, truckers are required to abide by load limits, obtain trucking permits, and obey travel time restrictions.
If a truck driver is involved in an accident, either the driver or his employer may be liable for the damages he caused. A truck driver may be held responsible for causing the actual injury. In addition, the employer may be held liable under certain circumstances, such as if the employer did not ensure that their driver followed the rules and regulations of the trucking industry. Sometimes trucking companies may try to evade liability by claiming that their driver was actually an independent contractor. An attorney can help potential plaintiffs understand all of the parties that can and should be held responsible and the proper compensation to demand from each.
Trucking Company Ordered Off the Road after Violating Several Safety Rules
A prominent insurance journal recently reported on a trucking company that has been ordered to discontinue driving on the road after it was discovered that they engaged in a number of safety violations. Apparently, one of the vehicles under the control of the trucking company was involved in an accident while the driver was transporting air bag inflators. When the truck crashed, it exploded, engulfing a nearby house and killing a woman inside. Additionally, several others were seriously injured.
A subsequent investigation revealed that the trucking company was allowing drivers without commercial driver’s licenses to drive their trucks. It was also discovered that the company did not require drug and alcohol tests for drivers. Additionally, the company failed to follow the rules regarding transporting hazardous material.
The report also indicated that nine out of the last 10 times the company’s drivers were pulled over for an inspection, the truck was ordered to halt operations and stay off the road. Most startling was the fact that the trucks lacked proper steering components and inadequate brakes.
Have You Been Injured in a Trucking Accident in New Mexico?
New Mexico has stringent rules when it comes to receiving and maintaining a commercial driver’s license, and these rules were developed for good cause. Trucks have the capacity to cause serious and often fatal truck accidents, and it is the responsibility of the truck driver and their employer to ensure that these accidents do not occur. If you have been injured because of the negligence of a truck driver or trucking company, you should contact one of the dedicated personal injury attorneys at the Fine Law Firm to schedule a free initial consultation. With their decades of experience behind you, you can rest assured your case is in good hands. Call 800-640-6590 to set up your free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Semi-Trucks Present an Increased Danger to Bicyclists and Motorcycle Riders, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 18, 2016.
State Appellate Court Reverses Jury Verdict for Plaintiff in Accident Lawsuit, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 12, 2016.