Because of the size and weight of commercial vehicles, the potential damage they can cause in an accident is much greater than with a personal vehicle. Understanding Michigan’s commercial trucking laws, especially regarding accidents, is key for drivers, companies, and victims seeking justice and compensation. If you’ve been involved in a collision involving a commercial vehicle, then we at Holmes & Wiseley P.C. in Grand Rapids, MI, can provide you with an experienced semi truck accident lawyer.
What To Know About Commercial Trucking Laws in Michigan?
Commercial trucking in Michigan is governed by both federal and state regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets nationwide standards, while Michigan’s Department of Transportation (MDOT) enforces state-specific rules. Key regulations include:
Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations
FMCSA mandates limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue. Truck drivers must have been off-duty for at least 10 hours before they can drive, and are allowed to drive for 11 hours maximum after coming on duty. They must also stop driving no later than 14 hours after coming on duty even if they have spent fewer than 11 hours driving in total.
Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection
Trucks must be regularly inspected and maintained. Michigan law requires that commercial vehicles undergo annual inspections to ensure they are safe to operate. Drivers must also go through a pre-trip checklist every time they make a trip.
Driver Qualifications
Drivers must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). They must also pass annual medical examinations to ensure they are fit to drive.
Weight Limits and Load Securement
Michigan has specific weight and size limits for commercial trucks. Overloading is prohibited, and loads must be properly secured to prevent shifting during transit. Michigan law considers the driver of a truck to be responsible for their load, so they must inspect it before beginning a trip to ensure that it is secured and not overweight.
Reporting and Investigation
Any accident involving a commercial truck must be reported promptly, and in Michigan, accidents causing injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to the police regardless of what vehicles are involved. An investigation will be conducted to determine the cause and liability.
No-Fault Insurance
Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that after an accident, each party’s insurance covers their own medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, in severe cases, victims can step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit for additional compensation. This is most common when there’s been death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement. Unfortunately, due to the size of commercial trucks, these sorts of serious injuries are much more common in commerical truck accidents.
Why You Should Hire a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI
If you drive a commercial vehicle, then you know the difference between that and driving a regular car; it’s more complicated, there are more regulations and laws, and there is much more at stake. Not just anyone can drive a semi truck, and not just any lawyer can handle a semi truck accident case.
Our specialist lawyers are dedicated to defending our clients and getting them the most favorable outcome. If you’ve been involved in a semi crash, then get in touch with us at Holmes & Wiseley P.C. in Grand Rapids, MI
