The Most Common Trucking Violations that Cause Accidents

While most drivers operate their rigs responsibly, it only takes one violation for a catastrophic accident to occur, leading to massive medical bills and long-term physical and emotional trauma. When the cause of the crash traces back to a trucking violation—especially a violation of federal safety rules—the injured party has every right to seek justice. 

If you or someone you love has been catastrophically injured in a collision with a commercial truck, our experienced New York truck accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. 

How Trucking Violations Can Cause Catastrophic Crashes

Truck drivers and the companies that employ them must follow strict safety rules, especially those outlined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). When a truck driver or trucking company ignores these rules, they put lives at risk. 

The most common trucking violations that contribute to devastating crashes include: 

 1. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Violations

Fatigued driving is one of the leading causes of serious truck accidents. The FMCSRs set strict Hours-of-Service limits, which dictate how long a truck driver can be behind the wheel without taking a break. As a part of the regulations: 

• Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty.   
• They may not drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty. 
• They must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving. 
• Weekly limits also apply (60/70-hour rules). 

Unfortunately, trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. This leads to logbook falsification, skipped rest breaks, and drivers nodding off behind the wheel.

When a driver causes a crash after exceeding HOS limits, both they and their employer can be held liable for violating federal law.

2. Improper Truck Maintenance

Trucks are complex machines that require routine maintenance to function safely. Brakes, tires, lights, and steering systems must be regularly inspected and serviced. Despite the need for consistent upkeep, maintenance violations are shockingly common. Some of the most dangerous examples include: 

• Worn-out brake systems 
• Bald or underinflated tires 
• Broken or non-functional lighting systems 
• Leaking fluid lines or steering issues 

When a commercial truck isn’t road ready, it becomes a massive hazard. A brake failure on a downhill or a tire blowout on the road can result in catastrophic pileups. FMCSRs require detailed maintenance records. If a trucking company failed to maintain the truck properly, or ignored obvious safety issues, they can be held accountable in a lawsuit.

3. Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo

The FMCSRs also regulate how cargo should be loaded and secured. Violations in this area can affect a truck’s handling, braking, and rollover risk. Examples of cargo-related violations include: 

• Exceeding weight limits (especially on state and interstate roads) 
• Unbalanced loads that affect center of gravity 
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit 
• Hazardous materials violations involving flammable or toxic goods 

In New York, overloaded trucks are more dangerous on tight curves, bridges, and narrow urban roads. A shifting or falling load can cause a truck to jackknife, tip over, or crush nearby vehicles.

4. Unqualified or Inadequately Trained Drivers

Drivers of large commercial trucks must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and complete mandatory training. However, not every trucking company thoroughly vets their drivers—or ensures they’re properly trained for the vehicle or cargo they’re handling. Common violations include: 

• Allowing drivers with suspended or revoked licenses to operate 
• Failing to conduct background checks or drug screenings 
• Assigning inexperienced drivers to operate tractor-trailers 
• Ignoring prior accident or safety violations 

If a trucking company hired a driver with a history of reckless behavior, or failed to provide the training needed to operate a vehicle safely, they may be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.

5. Distracted or Impaired Driving

Truck drivers are subject to strict rules regarding drug and alcohol use, as well as distracted driving. Federal rules prohibit: 

• Using handheld cell phones while driving 
• Texting or using social media 
• Operating under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or even prescription meds that impair driving 

Despite these rules, impaired and distracted driving remains a leading factor in fatal truck crashes. Crashes resulting from a violation like texting while driving or DUI may entitle victims to punitive damages on top of their other compensation.

6. Failure to Follow State and Local Safety Regulations

In addition to federal FMCSRs, truck drivers must also follow New York-specific trucking laws, which cover: 

• Bridge and tunnel clearance 
• Restricted routes and times (especially in Manhattan) 
• Permit requirements for oversized loads 

Violating local rules like driving on a prohibited road or failing to get a special permit can directly lead to liability for any crash. 

Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are complex. They often involve multiple liable parties (the driver, the trucking company, a maintenance contractor, warehouses, etc.), federal and state safety regulations, black box data, and trucking logs, all of which must all be analyzed carefully. 

At Morelli Law Firm, we have a proven track record of helping victims of catastrophic truck accidents recover the maximum compensation they’re entitled to. We’ll launch a full investigation, identify all regulatory violations, and hold the responsible parties accountable. 

Don’t wait. Let Morelli Law Firm stand in your corner and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.