When you’re driving on Montana highways, you’re bound to be sharing the road with big semi-trucks. Truck drivers usually follow the rules, but when they don’t, things can go wrong. That’s where federal trucking regulations come in—they lay out safety standards for commercial trucks across the country and often play a significant role in accident cases. If you’ve been in a crash with a big rig, knowing how these rules work can help your case. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they are and why they matter in Montana.
Montana’s Laws and How They Apply
Montana follows federal trucking laws but also has its own laws that can affect accident claims. Trucks have to stick to certain weight limits and follow special road restrictions in some areas. The state has comparative negligence laws so the amount of compensation you could obtain after being injured in a crash with a commercial truck could be reduced if you’re partly at fault for the crash. One thing that sets Montana apart is the longer deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit—you’ve got three years from the accident date.
What Are Federal Trucking Regulations?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry to help prevent accidents and keep roads safe. Federal laws cover everything from the length of time drivers can be on the road to how often trucks need maintenance.
Hours of Service (HOS) Rules
Fatigued truck drivers are a major road hazard, so the FMCSA limits the hours they can drive in one session to reduce drowsy driving. Truckers can drive up to 11 hours in a 14-hour shift after 10 hours off and can’t exceed 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days without a break. They must also take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving. Violating these rules can be considered negligence if an accident occurs.
Driver Qualification Standards
Not just anyone can get behind the wheel of a commercial truck. Federal regulations require drivers to be at least 21 for interstate travel, hold a valid CDL, and pass a medical exam to ensure they’re physically fit to drive safely.
Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
Trucking companies must keep their vehicles safe by conducting routine inspections, making timely repairs, and maintaining proper records. Drivers are also required to perform daily checks and report safety issues. If a company neglects inspections or repairs, it can be liable for accidents.
When trucking companies or drivers ignore these federal rules, it puts everyone at risk—and if you’ve been hurt in a crash, those violations could be key to your personal injury claim.
How Federal Regulations Affect Personal Injury Claims
If you’re in an accident with a semi-truck, proving fault isn’t always the same as in a regular car crash. Because of federal regulations, there are more ways to hold the truck driver, the trucking company, or others accountable.
Proving Negligence
Breaking FMCSA rules can be solid proof of negligence. Driving too many hours, failing a drug or alcohol test, or skipping required inspections can all be used against the driver or trucking company in court.
Trucking companies can also be liable if they pressure drivers to exceed legal hours, skip safety checks or maintenance, or hire unqualified drivers without proper training.
Evidence in Truck Accident Cases
Federal rules require trucking companies to keep detailed records, which can be crucial in your case. Driver logs track hours on the road, the truck’s black box records speed and braking, maintenance records reveal ignored issues, and dashcam or traffic footage helps reconstruct the crash.
What to Do If You’re in a Trucking Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 – Even if injuries seem minor, always report the accident.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos, get witness contact information, and note any details about the truck and driver.
- Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries don’t show up right away, so get checked out as soon as possible.
- Consult a Lawyer – Trucking accident cases are complicated, and insurance companies will try to pay you less than you deserve. Our lawyers can help you understand your rights and fight for fair compensation.
These steps can protect your health, strengthen your case, and improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Talk to a Montana Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents aren’t like regular car crashes. Things can get complicated quickly with trucking companies, insurers, and other parties involved. You need a lawyer who knows federal trucking regulations and how to build a strong case. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, Travis & Brann, PLLP is here to help. Contact us online or call (406) 752-7550 for a free consultation with a Kalispell truck accident lawyer to go over your options.
