Big rig accidents often result in severe injuries and substantial property damage due to the size and weight of these vehicles. In Minnesota, specific laws and regulations govern big rig operations, impacting how accident cases are handled. If you live in Roseville and have been involved in a big rig accident, understanding these rules is essential for pursuing compensation.
Federal And State Trucking Regulations
Big rigs are regulated at both the federal and state levels. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes rules to promote safety, including limits on how long truck drivers can be on the road and requirements for vehicle maintenance. Minnesota also enforces additional trucking laws, such as specific weight limits for state highways and additional restrictions during winter months when road conditions are hazardous.
One critical rule is the hours-of-service regulation, which limits how long a truck driver can operate without taking mandatory breaks. In Minnesota, these regulations apply to intrastate trucking and are designed to reduce accidents caused by fatigue. If a driver violates these rules and causes an accident, they and their employer may be held accountable.
Liability In Big Rig Accidents
Determining liability in a big rig accident is often more complicated than in standard car accidents. Multiple parties may be responsible, including the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even the manufacturer of a defective part. Minnesota law allows victims to pursue compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to the accident.
Trucking companies, for example, are required to follow strict hiring and training practices to ensure their drivers are qualified. If a company hires an unqualified driver or fails to provide adequate training, they can be held liable for accidents caused by that driver. Similarly, if maintenance records show that the truck was not properly serviced, the maintenance provider or trucking company may share responsibility.
Comparative Fault In Minnesota
Minnesota follows a comparative fault system, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found 20% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%. This rule makes it especially important to gather evidence that accurately reflects the circumstances of the accident.
The Importance Of Evidence
In any big rig accident case, evidence is crucial. This includes police reports, photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and testimony from witnesses. Additionally, trucking companies are required to maintain certain records, such as driver logs and maintenance reports, which can be used to build a strong case. These records often provide critical insights into whether federal or state regulations were violated.
How Johnston | Martineau PLLP Can Help
At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we’ve worked with many clients affected by big rig accidents. If you need a Roseville, MN big rig accident lawyer, we can help you understand how Minnesota’s trucking laws apply to your case and identify the parties responsible for your injuries and losses.
Big rig accident cases require careful attention to detail and thorough preparation. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the right steps toward securing fair compensation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
