Expanded Truck Driver Hours Can Lead to Serious Accidents in New Mexico
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has expanded their hours of service guidelines to allow truck drivers carrying response resources for the COVID-19 pandemic — including fuel, healthcare supplies, food, cleaning, and safety resources — to operate beyond the standard hours of service to ensure the increased demands for delivery of these goods are met without delay.
At the Law Office of Samuel I. Kane P.A., our Las Cruces truck accident attorneys understand the increased response to our country’s health crisis and appreciate everyone who plays a role in providing the resources our communities need to get through this difficult time.
We also know that we each have a responsibility to protect our fellow residents from harm, and that includes avoiding negligent behavior that can lead to serious injuries — especially where semi-truck drivers are concerned.
These 80,000-pound vehicles can cause severe harm when colliding with a much smaller passenger vehicle, including spine and brain injuries that leave our clients fighting for their physical and emotional recovery going forward.
Our truck accident lawyers in Dona Ana County are here to fight for injury victims and their right to pursue the financial recovery they deserve, so they can focus on fully healing.
Can a Truck Driver or Trucking Company Be Held Liable for an Accident During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
The short answer is, yes. Truck drivers or trucking companies cannot surpass the hours of service regulations if they are not carrying resources to aid in the response of the health emergency.
Even if the driver is carrying approved COVID-19 response goods, he or she is still required to operate their truck responsibly.
Negligence is never permitted on our roadways, even during a health crisis.
New Mexico truck drivers who can be held accountable for their negligence include those who were:
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs
- Speeding
- Failing to obey traffic signs and signals
- Recklessly operating their semi-trucks by failing to yield, unsafely switching lanes, or tailgating
- Carrying oversized loads
- Not maintaining their trucks to ensure safe passage
If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact our Las Cruces attorneys today to learn how we can help you build your case while you get the medical care you need to get well.
Insurance Companies Are Still Operating & So Are Our Las Cruces Truck Accident Attorneys
Like our law firm, insurance companies are still fully operational during the COVID-19 pandemic, with most of their staff working remotely.
This will allow our truck injury attorneys to pursue your claim without delay, as we use our experience and legal strategy to outline your case to pursue the best outcome available for your unique needs.
Contact us today at 575-222-0472 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Las Cruces truck accident lawyers to learn more about your legal options and who can be held accountable for your financial recovery.
