#United States #Minneapolis #Pritzker Hageman #Truck Safety #FMCSA data

Investigating America's Trucking Safety: A Critical Analysis

In a recent report, the Truck Accident Legal Team at Pritzker Hageman delves into alarming safety data provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This analysis underscores the continuing danger that commercial trucks present to families traveling on America's highways, a serious concern that often goes unnoticed.

The Ongoing Risks of Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents are a grave threat, with numerous incidents occurring regularly due to safety violations among the trucking industry. Eric Hageman, managing partner at Pritzker Hageman, emphasizes the lack of enforcement, stating, "Anyone who uses our public roadways is at risk. There's so much havoc out there, and enforcement is lax."

The report thoroughly examines how prevalent violations of safety protocols signify a pattern of negligence among various trucking carriers, contractors, and delivery services. With large companies such as FedEx, UPS, and Amazon frequently involved, the risks increase proportional to their expansive delivery networks.

Analysis of Safety Violations

Utilizing the federal data as a foundation, the study highlights critical safety breakdowns that occur across the trucking industry:

• - Brake deficiencies leading to potential failures during operation.
• - Tire and wheel problems, which can result in catastrophic accidents.
• - Lighting failures, including issues with signals and lights that impair visibility.
• - Cargo securement failures, where improperly tied-down loads create hazards.
• - Fifth wheel coupling issues, critical for the connection between tractor and trailer.
• - Fuel and exhaust leaks, leading to both environmental risks and safety concerns.
• - Suspension and steering defects, impacting the overall control of the vehicle.
• - Missing required safety equipment, which can endanger all on the road.
• - Hours of Service violations, showcasing drivers exceeding legal limits on driving time.
• - Incomplete maintenance records, which can obscure the true condition of the vehicle.

The findings reveal that 59.6% of violations stem from equipment and maintenance issues, with 19.98% of inspections resulting in a truck being ordered out of service. This compendium of statistics paints a concerning portrait of the current state of truck safety compliance, indicating that accidents often arise well before the moment of impact due to underlying vehicle faults.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

For families affected by a serious truck crash, the aftermath is often devastating, leaving them grappling with injuries, lost wages, and many uncertainties. Pritzker Hageman advocates for swift legal action following an accident. Engaging a seasoned truck accident attorney can ensure that vital evidence is gathered. This includes analyzing truck maintenance records, reviewing driver logs for possible Hours of Service breaches, examining crash reports, and collecting relevant safety documentation.

The legal firm has dedicated itself to representing families affected by significant injuries and wrongful death arising from truck accidents, offering expert legal counsel across all 50 states. With compassion and expertise, Pritzker Hageman continues to fight for accountability in the trucking industry to enhance roadway safety for everyone.

Conclusion

This investigation is a wake-up call. With a substantial number of violations occurring within the commercial trucking sector, the public must stay aware of the risks associated with these vehicles on the road. The data underlines the necessity for more stringent oversight and improved safety practices to protect those who share the highways with commercial trucks. Safety should always be the priority, and rigorous enforcement of truck regulations is critical.