Commercial drivers operating semi-trucks and other large vehicles have to follow local traffic statutes. They also need to follow federal rules that impose special restrictions or requirements on commercial vehicles and their operators.
Professionals operating semi-trucks generally need to secure a commercial driver’s license (CDL). They also need to adhere to the three federal traffic laws below to protect their driving privileges.
1. The Hours of Service regulations
People operating their personal vehicles can drive for as long as they can remain awake. People can pull all-nighters at the wheel if they must cross multiple states for a family member’s medical emergency. Truck drivers do not have the same flexibility. They are subject to strict rules limiting how long they drive and how frequently they rest.
2. The federal no-text rule
Texting while driving statutes are technically different in every jurisdiction. Most states have implemented some rules regulating mobile device use in a vehicle. Semi-truck operators and other commercial drivers must adhere to the federal no-text rule. This law prohibits the manual use of any device while operating a commercial vehicle.
3. Lower alcohol limits
In most states other than Utah, drivers are subject to a 0.08 blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit. However, those operating semi-trucks must follow a much stricter federal standard. Those in control of a commercial vehicle are at risk of a drunk driving charge when their BAC reaches 0.04%.
Unfortunately, despite strict rules, semi-truck crashes remain a major issue. Thousands of people get hurt or die in commercial vehicle crashes each year. Negotiating a trucking collision insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit can help people recover their losses when commercial drivers and their employers don’t properly adhere to traffic statutes.
