Commercial trucking is vital in transporting goods around the state and country. The size, including the length, width, and weight of commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, make safe operation and compliance with the regulations essential.
When collisions occur because of non-compliance, those who sustain harm have the right to initiate legal action to obtain a payout from the negligent party. To learn more, schedule a consultation with a skilled lawyer who is knowledgeable about commercial truck compliance in New York and the relevant truck maintenance issues that may be present.
Examples of State Trucking Industry Regulations
Drivers, commercial trucking companies, and other related agencies in New York must ensure compliance with several regulations, including:
Size and Weight Limits
State laws limit commercial vehicles’ maximum allowable size and weight, such as length restrictions, maximum gross vehicle weight, and axle weight. Single units like box trucks can be up to 35 feet long, while tractor-trailer combination vehicles may be up to 55 feet long, 13 feet and six inches tall, and eight feet wide.
Commercial Driver’s License
Truckers operating heavy commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, need a commercial driver’s license, or CDL, to drive vehicles above a specific weight or transport hazardous materials. Obtaining a CDL requires passing knowledge tests, skill tests, driving tests, and passing alcohol and drug screening. Depending on the type of vehicles or material they transport, they may also need special endorsements.
Hours-of-Service
The Hours-of-Service rules, also called HOS, regulate the maximum hours a trucker can remain behind the wheel per shift and per week. In most cases, the laws limit the maximum allowable time of consecutive driving to 11 hours and are subject to 60/70-hour duty cycle rules. The guidelines also provide the minimum time drivers must be on the brake and the number of hours off-duty to reset the week. Falling to adhere could result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties.
Motor Carrier Compliance Bureau
The New York Motor Carrier Compliance Bureau, or MCCB, is a division of the Department of Transportation and enforces federal and state regulations to ensure New York commercial truck compliance. The agency’s primary objective is ensuring compliance with the traffic rules and regulations to promote highway safety. Per the website for the New York State Department of Transportation, the primary responsibilities of MCCB include the following:
Following and Enforcing Regulations
Enforcement of regulations pertinent to the safety of heavy commercial vehicles, including monitoring driver service, vehicle maintenance standards, and training and licensing.
Inspections
Conducts roadside inspections and enforcement to ensure compliance with driver qualification guidelines and inspection records and issue tickets and other penalties for violators.
Licensing and Registration
MCCB must ensure that drivers have a proper license, registration, and the necessary permits and certifications.
Safety Compliance
Completes safety audits and compliance reviews to assess compliance with safety rules and regulations and identify areas that require improvement.
Educational Training
The MCCB must provide training and education, including guidelines, resources, and educational programs for the trucking industry.
The MCCB works closely with law enforcement agencies, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and organizations related to the industry to prevent avoidable accidents and enhance highway safety.
Speak to a Knowledgeable Attorney About New York Commercial Truck Compliance Today
Crashes involving 18-wheelers and other large trucks are often severe, leaving those involved with life-altering or fatal injuries. Therefore, compliance with federal and state laws is crucial.
When non-compliance leads to accidents, people who have been severely injured can file a claim in civil court to collect monetary damages from the liable party. Schedule an appointment with a hard-working lawyer knowledgeable about commercial truck compliance in New York if you have questions or need help with a case.