On Nov. 5, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a six-year, multi-billion dollar transportation policy bill that allows for sweeping reforms to our nation’s truck driving rules and regulations. While many of the changes help to protect motorists on the road, others could significantly increase trucking accidents and injuries. Lawmakers did not approve provisions to allow heavier trucks on U.S. interstates and highways and did call for equipment to be installed along traffic corridors to provide drivers and vehicles equipped with advanced technology with real-time information regarding hazards in the road. However, these measures could possibly be undermined by other provisions that were approved. The New York Times explains the bill will force the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to take down the safety ratings of bus and trucking companies from their website. Furthermore, new provisions will allow certain states to bypass certain aspects of hours-of-operation rules and permit drivers under age 21 to haul loads across state lines. The bill will now be examined by a Senate committee along side their version of the bill. A finalized version will then be drafted before a voted takes place. Protecting motorists is a mission that the staff at William Mattar Law Offices takes seriously. At William Mattar, we offer a free case evaluation if you or someone you know was injured in a car accident. For your free case evaluation, contact one of our Rochester car accident lawyers.
Transportation Bill Reforms Truck Driving Rules and Regulations