Commercial Trucks in Need of Improved Safety
September 25, 2017
Commercial truck accidents are some of the most serious wrecks that occur on roads and highways across the country, often resulting in massive property damage and severe, even fatal injuries. When a large truck is not properly maintained or does not meet the basic safety standards, it can seriously jeopardize the safety of other motorists on the road. Unfortunately, too many trucks on the road today do not meet these safety standards, yet they continue to operate.
Earlier this year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), a group of certified commercial motor vehicle inspectors from the United States and Canada, joined together for the 30th Annual International Roadcheck. Over the course of the three-day event, enforcement personnel conducted more than 62,000 safety inspections of large trucks at a number of inspection sites across North America. Safety personnel checked the vehicles, as well as the drivers, to make sure that they passed the Level 1 inspection standards set forth by the CVSA. Unfortunately, close to 25 percent of the vehicles did not pass these basic inspections.
Level 1 Safety Parameters
The following are examples of some of the parameters that the motor vehicle inspectors check:
- Vehicle’s brake system
- How securely the cargo was loaded
- Operation of the vehicle’s headlights and taillights
- Steering mechanism
- Structural integrity of the vehicle’s frame
- Condition of the tires and tread
Inspectors found that only 23 percent of all large trucks passed these basic inspection standards. In fact, many of the vehicles had such major infractions that they had to be immediately removed from service for violating the legal requirements for operating a large commercial vehicle. Considering the fact that the event was promoted by the CVSA, including the specific dates that the inspections would be taking place, the truck drivers, or those responsible for maintaining the truck, had plenty of opportunities to take the necessary steps to ensure that their trucks were compliant. However, many failed to do so.
This is just one of the issues facing the trucking industry today. Carriers, drivers, and regulators all have different priorities and agendas, and technology continues to have an increasing impact on the future of the industry. In the meantime, it is crucial that large commercial trucks meet the inspection standards and that members of the trucking industry work hard to improve the safety of our roads. The CVSA road checks are effective at taking potentially unsafe vehicles off the road.
Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a truck accident, do not hesitate to contact the experienced Baltimore truck accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Accidents involving large trucks can be particularly devastating due to the immense size and weight of the vehicle. We will help you navigate the claims process and address any questions or concerns you might have. We are on your side to protect your rights and see to it that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent truck accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
