South Carolina’s major interstates – I-26 and I-95 – are critical corridors for commercial trucking. These highways support the movement of goods between Charleston, Columbia, and the Southeast. But with such heavy truck traffic, collisions are far too common – and the results are often devastating for those in passenger vehicles.
When a crash involves an 18-wheeler, the damage is usually severe. Victims may suffer catastrophic injuries, permanent disability, or the loss of a loved one. In these cases, one of the most important – but often overlooked – factors is whether the trucking company or driver violated federal regulations that govern the industry.
Understanding how these regulations work can significantly strengthen a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit after a trucking accident in South Carolina. Our David W. Martin Accident & Injury Lawyers can help. Here is how.
What Federal Regulations Apply to Trucking Companies?
All commercial trucking operations that cross state lines are subject to rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations are designed to promote safety and reduce the risk of fatal crashes.
Some of the most critical rules include:
- Hours-of-Service (HOS) Limits: Truck drivers are limited in how many hours they can drive in a day and per week. They must take mandatory rest breaks to prevent fatigue, a leading cause of serious truck accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance Requirements: Commercial trucks must be inspected regularly and maintained according to federal safety standards. Failing brakes, worn tires, or broken lights can all contribute to crashes.
- Driver Qualification Standards: Truck drivers must pass background checks, medical exams, and drug tests. Companies must verify drivers’ qualifications before putting them on the road.
- Cargo Securement Rules: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing rollovers, jackknifes, or spilled loads on the highway.
How Federal Violations Impact South Carolina Injury Claims
When a trucking company or driver violates federal safety regulations, it can be powerful evidence of negligence in a South Carolina personal injury or wrongful death case.
These violations may show:
- The driver was overworked or fatigued in violation of HOS rules.
- The truck had mechanical issues due to skipped inspections.
- The company hired an unqualified or improperly trained driver.
- Dangerous cargo was not properly secured.
Proving a federal violation does not just show fault – it can also expose the trucking company to punitive damages in some cases, especially if the conduct was reckless or repeated.
Why Legal Experience Matters After a South Carolina Truck Crash
Truck accident claims are different from regular car accidents. They involve not only local and state laws but also complex federal regulations. Trucking companies often have legal teams and insurers that respond immediately to minimize liability – and they are not on your side.
At David W. Martin Injury Lawyers, we know how to investigate truck accidents thoroughly. We secure driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and FMCSA compliance reports to build the strongest case possible. Our team works with experts in trucking safety and crash reconstruction to prove what went wrong – and who is responsible.
Call Us After a Truck Accident on I-26 or I-95
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident on I-26, I-95, or anywhere in South Carolina, do not wait. The sooner we investigate, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
Contact David W. Martin Injury Lawyers today at (803) 302-3989 for a free consultation. We are here to fight for the compensation you need to recover and rebuild. We provide free consultations for all South Carolina personal injury cases. We only collect fees when we secure compensation for you – your success is our success.
