Avoiding Truck Accidents in Missouri
The Missouri truck accident attorneys at The Hershewe Law Firm, P.C. offer these suggestions for reducing Missouri truck accidents.
Trucker’s guide to avoiding Missouri trucking accidents
Tip one: Abide by Missouri commercial driver safety laws
One of the most important things a trucker can do to avoid causing a trucking accident in Missouri is to follow Chapter 307 of the Missouri statutes regarding vehicle equipment regulations, which state that—
- Every commercial motor vehicle, its trailer, and all its parts must be maintained in a safe condition at all times.
- Accidents arising from the operation of your rig must be reported to the Department of Public Safety in detail.
- A driver must be at least 18 and licensed to operate a commercial motor vehicle within Missouri, or at least 21 to transport hazardous material.
Maintaining your 18-wheeler by better than minimum standards reduces the likelihood of mechanical failure-related trucking accidents in Missouri. Furthermore, you and your commercial vehicle may be forced out of service under Missouri law if your vehicle is not equipped and operated according to the state’s safety requirements.
For more information on these requirements and other truck driver laws for Missouri, download and read the Missouri Commercial Driver License Manual.
Tip two: Stay within the FMCA hours-of-service rules
Follow the federal hours-of-service regulations (Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) Part 395) to ensure that you are driving refreshed. The rules limit the number of consecutive hours you can drive your truck without first taking a break.
Tip three: Avoid trucker fatigue
To stay alert on long hauls—
- Avoid heavy meals—A big meal that loads up the stomach changes the way your body operates, causing blood to rush to your abdomen for digestion aid, depriving the brain. By eating more frequently but in smaller amounts, oxygen-rich blood circulates to your brain, aiding in alertness.
- Drink healthy fluids—Caffeine-free beverages aid the brain’s operation through hydration. The brain is mostly water. Inadequate fluid intake hinders brain operation and alertness.
- Take stretch breaks—The mental monotony of a lengthy drive induces driver fatigue and the likelihood of driving errors that may result in a truck accident in Missouri. Use those rest areas and truck stops to rest, to stretch, to increase blood flow by walking a bit, and to change your focus. Just a ten-minute break is enough to refresh your mind and break the hypnotic stare of the incessant drive.
A lawyer for truck accidents in Missouri
When you are injured in a Missouri trucking accident, let The Hershewe Law Firm’s exceptional truck accident team fight for you and your family. There is no charge for an initial consultation to discuss your case.
For more Missouri truck accident law information
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