The truck driver involved in my recent Annapolis auto accident fell asleep at the wheel. Don't federal laws limit the amount of time a truck driver can log in one day?

A: Federal laws put restrictions on the number of hours a truck driver can operate a commercial truck. The rules differ between property-carrying commercial vehicles and those that transport passengers. However, they are not always followed to the letter, which can result in accident, injury and even death. If you've been hurt in a truck accident and you are filing a Maryland personal injury claim, contact an Annapolis auto accident lawyer.

For commercial vehicles transporting property only, a driver may drive a maximum of 11 hours only after 10 consecutive hours off duty and may not drive beyond 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty, following 10 hours off.

Also, a property-only commercial truck driver may not drive after 60 hours in 7 consecutive days or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days and may only restart a 7 or 8 consecutive-day period after taking 34 hours off duty.

For commercial vehicles that are licensed to carry passengers, the rules are slightly stricter. The 11-hour driving limit is reduced to 10 hours after 8 hours off, and a driver may not drive after being on duty for 15 hours, following 8 consecutive hours off duty.

If a truck driver who is involved in an accident is found to have violated the minimum off-duty requirements, then it is likely that he or she will be held liable for the accident. However, it can be difficult to prove truck driver liability because the trucking companies have become incredibly adept and aggressive at defending negligence claims.

If you have been injured in a truck accident that you believe was not your fault, and you are considering filing a Maryland personal injury claim, contact an Annapolis auto accident lawyer who can begin fortifying your case.

Contacting an Annapolis Auto Accident Lawyer

Maryland's contributory negligence statute makes it more difficult for Maryland accident victims to recover sufficient compensation when someone else is at fault for your accident. This doesn't have to spell the end of your case! Protect your rights and give your Maryland personal injury case the advantage of experienced legal counsel by teaming with a lawyer from Jimeno & Gray. Contact us today for a no-cost consultation - 1-888-689-8769.