With a growing number of commercial trucks on the roads, the likelihood of accidents involving these large vehicles is increasing. In Oklahoma, where highways are a vital part of the state’s economy, trucking accidents can cause serious injuries and fatalities. In these situations, it’s important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding truck accidents, in order to protect your legal rights and ensure proper compensation for damages.
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Oklahoma Trucking Laws
Oklahoma has a variety of laws and regulations governing the operation of commercial trucks. These laws cover everything from driver qualifications to vehicle specifications and driver behavior. Some of the most important trucking laws in Oklahoma include:
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements
In Oklahoma, commercial drivers must have a valid CDL to operate any vehicle weighing over 26,001 pounds, or a combination of vehicles weighing over 26,001 pounds. A CDL requires testing and certification, including both written and driving exams.
Hours of Service Regulations
To prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue, Oklahoma has strict regulations governing how long a commercial driver can operate their vehicle without taking a break. These restrictions vary based on the type of cargo being transported and how far the driver is traveling.
Vehicle Safety Standards
Commercial trucks in Oklahoma must adhere to specific safety standards, including regular inspections, brake and tire maintenance, and proper cargo loading and securing protocols.
Liability in Trucking Accidents
In a trucking accident, determining liability is key to securing compensation for damages and injuries. Liability in these cases can be complex, and may involve multiple parties, such as the driver, the trucking company, and any maintenance or repair contractors. Some common causes of trucking accidents in Oklahoma include:
Driver Error
Driver error is one of the most common causes of trucking accidents. This can include speeding, distracted driving, and driving while fatigued.
Equipment Malfunction
Equipment such as brakes, tires, and steering systems are vital to the safe operation of a commercial truck. Malfunctions in these systems can cause crashes, and liability may fall on the manufacturer, maintenance contractor, or trucking company.
Improper Loading or Securement
Improper loading or securement of cargo can cause a truck to tip over or lose control on the road. Liability in these cases may fall on the trucking company responsible for the loading and securing of the cargo.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Oklahoma, you may be eligible to seek compensation for damages and injuries. This compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To pursue compensation, you’ll need to take the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention
The first step after a trucking accident should always be to seek medical attention for yourself and any passengers. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to undergo a full medical evaluation in case any injuries are not immediately apparent.
Contact an Attorney
Trucking accident cases can be complex, and it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side to help navigate the legal process. An attorney can help investigate the cause of the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure proper compensation.
File a Claim
Your attorney will help you file a claim against the liable parties, which may include the driver, the trucking company, or any maintenance contractors. This claim will outline the damages and injuries sustained in the accident and seek compensation for those damages.
Litigation
If negotiations with insurance companies are unsuccessful, your attorney may file a lawsuit to pursue compensation through the court system. This may involve a trial to determine liability and proper compensation amounts.
Conclusion
Trucking accidents can cause serious injuries and fatalities, leaving victims and their families with overwhelming medical bills and lost wages. Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding trucking accidents in Oklahoma is key to protecting your legal rights and securing proper compensation for damages. By seeking medical attention, contacting an attorney, and pursuing compensation through the legal process if necessary, victims can work towards rebuilding their lives after a traumatic trucking accident.