Truck drivers are an important part of our economy, both importing and exporting the goods that drive commerce. Manhattan's grocery stores are stocked with fresh produce because of truckers, and the thousands of products manufactured around New York are distributed by truck to the rest of the country.

However, like members of any profession, truckers also operate under a set of regulations. New York trucking regulations ensure the safety and health of truckers, as well as the other drivers who share the road with them. This is especially important because tractor trailer accidents account for over 10 percent of all fatal accidents, even though trucks are far outnumbered by other vehicles.

The primary regulations for truckers concern the times they can and cannot drive. Trucking regulations say that drivers cannot drive:

  • more than fourteen hours consecutively, without a ten-hour off-duty period
  • more than sixty hours in a seven-day period (which can be reset by taking thirty-four hours off duty)

Truck drivers are exempt from the foregoing restrictions if they spend an eight-hour period in their sleeper berth every twenty-four hours, if their truck is equipped with one. They are also forbidden from driving while under the influence of alcohol, and required by law to not have a drink within four hours of going on duty. If a driver is overly fatigued, ill, or under the influence of any substance, they are required to pull over immediately.

While trucking regulations are in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road, many truck drivers disregard them. Motivated by financial incentives or pushed by overly demanding schedules, many truck drivers get behind the wheel even when it is illegal or dangerous for them to do so.

This negligence on the part of the drivers or the trucking companies that employ them results in hundreds of serious New York truck accidents each year. If you or a loved one have been the victim of an accident, then you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries or loss.

The first thing you should do if you or a loved one have been the victim of a New York truck accident is call a trusted lawyer. An experienced Long Island truck accident attorney can help you prove the trucking company's negligence in court, recovering the damages you and your family need to get your life back.

Call the Long Island truck accident attorneys at Rappaport, Glass, Greene, and Levine today for a free consultation on your case. You can reach us in Long Island or Manhattan toll free at (800) 734-9445.