Large commercial trucks travel across Florida every day. These vehicles can cause severe injuries when mechanical problems occur due to their substantial size and weight. To reduce these risks, both federal and state laws require regular inspections and proper maintenance of 18-wheelers.
If a trucking company or driver ignores these inspection rules, dangerous conditions can develop on the road. Learning about how Florida’s truck inspection laws work can help you understand when a violation may have contributed to a crash.
Truck Inspection Requirements in Florida
Most commercial trucks in Florida must follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, which set national standards for inspections and maintenance. These rules apply to trucks involved in interstate commerce and are often applied to in-state carriers as well.
In general, trucking companies and drivers must make sure their vehicles are safe before every trip. This includes checking major systems such as brakes, tires, lights, and steering. If a problem is found, it must be repaired before the truck can legally operate.
Florida law supports these federal rules by allowing state agencies to inspect commercial vehicles. If a truck is unsafe, it can be taken out of service until repairs are made. These laws are meant to catch mechanical issues before they cause serious accidents.
Driver Inspection Duties Before and After Trips
Truck drivers have an important role in the inspection process in that they are required to perform both pre-trip and post-trip inspections of their vehicles. These checks help identify problems that could make the truck unsafe.
During these inspections, drivers must look for visible signs of damage or mechanical failure. If they find anything that could affect safety, they must report it and make sure the issue is fixed.
Common items drivers must check include:
- Brake systems
- Tires and wheels
- Headlights and turn signal lights
- Mirrors and windshield wipers
- Coupling devices and cargo securement
Carefully reviewing these components can help prevent equipment failures that might otherwise lead to a crash.
Annual Inspection and Maintenance Requirements
Commercial trucks must also undergo a detailed annual inspection by a qualified inspector. This inspection reviews major systems to ensure the truck meets safety standards. After the inspection, the carrier must keep records showing that the truck passed and is safe to operate.
Trucking companies also have a duty to maintain their vehicles throughout the year. This means performing routine service, replacing worn parts, and more. Failing to keep up with maintenance can be persuasive evidence of negligence after an accident.
Common Violations of Truck Inspection Laws
Not all trucking companies follow inspection rules as they should. For instance, some may carelessly skip inspections and delay repairs to keep their vehicles on the road.
Common inspection-related violations include:
- Driving with worn brakes
- Failing to replace damaged tires
- Ignoring suspension issues
- Skipping required annual inspections
- Not keeping accurate inspection and maintenance records
These violations increase the chance of mechanical failure and, in turn, serious truck accidents.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Inspection Violation?
When poor inspections or maintenance lead to an 18-wheeler accident, more than one party may be responsible. Liability could include the truck driver, the trucking company, and possibly a maintenance contractor in some cases.
To establish liability in a case like this, it is usually necessary to show with evidence that:
- The truck was not properly inspected/maintained
- A mechanical defect existed at the time of the crash
- The defect contributed to causing the accident in question
- The victim suffered injuries and losses as a result
The standard of proof in most truck accident claims is “by a preponderance of the evidence,” which is roughly a 51% or higher likelihood.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Florida Truck Accident Claim?
Victims of truck accidents caused by improper vehicle maintenance may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These are meant to make you whole again, as best as the law can.
Examples of the damages you can receive include:
- Medical bills
- Future medical care
- Pain and suffering
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish and trauma
- Loss of quality of life
If your case goes to trial and if the defendant acted egregiously, punitive damages may be available as well. However, these damages are reserved for rare cases.
Contact the Florida Truck Accident Lawyers at Shaked Law Firm, P.A. for Help Today
Florida truck inspection laws are meant to keep unsafe commercial vehicles off the road. When these rules are not followed, the results can be devastating for other drivers and passengers.
If you were injured in a crash involving a commercial truck, it may be important to determine whether inspection failures played a role. A detailed investigation can uncover any safety violations that might have occurred and help identify who is legally responsible.
That’s where Shaked Law Firm, P.A. can step in. Contact us today at (305) 937-0191 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Florida truck accident attorney to learn more. You may be entitled to substantial compensation from the at-fault parties.
Visit our Truck Accident Law Firm in Aventura, Florida
Shaked Law Firm, P.A.
20900 NE 30th Ave STE 705, Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191
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