Commercial trucks play a vital role in Tampa’s economy, transporting goods across major highways such as I-275, I-4, Dale Mabry Highway, and the Selmon Expressway. While most trucking companies follow safety regulations, some cut corners—leading to catastrophic accidents that cause devastating injuries or fatalities. When a commercial truck crash occurs, one of the most important factors in determining liability is whether the trucking company or driver violated FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Tampa commercial truck accident, understanding FMCSA rules—and how violations of those rules may strengthen your claim—is essential. At Slater | Grant, we investigate every detail of your crash to uncover evidence of driver or company negligence and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
This article explains what FMCSA violations are, how they contribute to truck accidents, and how our attorneys use these violations to hold negligent companies accountable.
Complete the free case evaluation form or call us now at 813-995-6444 to speak directly with an attorney.
What Is the FMCSA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the federal agency responsible for regulating the commercial trucking industry. Its mission is to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses.
FMCSA rules govern:
- Driver qualifications
- Hours-of-service limits
- Vehicle inspection and maintenance
- Cargo loading and securement
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Company safety management practices
When trucking companies ignore these regulations, the results can be catastrophic.
Common FMCSA Violations in Tampa Truck Accidents
FMCSA regulations exist to keep all road users safe. Unfortunately, some trucking companies and drivers knowingly violate these rules to save time or money.
Here are the most frequently cited FMCSA violations that contribute to Tampa commercial truck accidents:
1. Hours-of-Service (HOS) Violations
Drowsy driving is one of the leading causes of commercial truck crashes. FMCSA rules limit:
- The number of hours drivers can be on duty
- The number of consecutive driving hours
- Required rest breaks
Some companies pressure drivers to exceed these limits to meet delivery deadlines. Others falsify logbooks to hide violations.
Signs of HOS violations include:
- Exhausted or disoriented driver
- Inconsistent log entries
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data that contradicts driver reports
A fatigued truck driver is as dangerous as a drunk driver—and equally liable.
2. Improper Truck Maintenance
Commercial trucks require regular inspection and maintenance. FMCSA rules mandate pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections covering:
- Brakes
- Tires
- Steering
- Lights
- Suspension
- Coupling devices
Failure to maintain trucks can lead to:
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failure
- Steering issues
- Trailer detachments
If a mechanical failure contributed to your accident, the trucking company or maintenance provider may be held responsible.
3. Improper or Unsafe Cargo Loading
Cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting or overturning. FMCSA regulations govern:
- Weight limits
- Load distribution
- Use of securement devices
- Hazardous materials handling
Improper cargo loading can cause:
- Jackknife accidents
- Rollovers
- Loss of control
- Falling debris
Cargo loading companies may also be liable for violations.
4. Drug and Alcohol Violations
FMCSA requires trucking companies to perform:
- Pre-employment drug testing
- Random drug and alcohol tests
- Post-accident testing
Drivers with a history of substance abuse violations should not be on the road. When companies ignore testing requirements or fail to remove unsafe drivers, they may be held liable for resulting accidents.
5. Violations of Hiring and Training Standards
FMCSA requires trucking companies to verify the qualifications and safety records of all drivers. Violations include:
- Hiring drivers without proper commercial licenses
- Failing to conduct background checks
- Ignoring prior safety violations
- Providing inadequate training
When unqualified or inexperienced drivers are put behind the wheel of a massive commercial truck, the risk of accidents rises dramatically.
6. Vehicle Overloading Violations
Exceeding weight limits makes trucks significantly harder to control and stop. Overloaded trucks can cause severe damage in collisions and increase the risk of rollovers.
We investigate weigh station records, cargo documentation, and black box data to identify violations.
How FMCSA Violations Strengthen Your Tampa Truck Accident Claim
Proving FMCSA violations can dramatically improve the outcome of your claim. These violations show that the trucking company or driver acted negligently—or even recklessly—by ignoring federal safety rules.
Evidence of violations can lead to:
1. Establishing Fault More Easily
FMCSA violations can demonstrate negligence per se, meaning the violation itself may prove the company or driver acted unlawfully.
2. Higher Compensation
Victims may recover more compensation because FMCSA violations often indicate severe negligence.
3. Punitive Damages
If the trucking company knowingly violated regulations—such as encouraging drivers to exceed hours-of-service limits—you may be eligible for punitive damages.
4. Greater Leverage in Negotiations
Insurance companies are more likely to settle when faced with clear evidence of wrongdoing.
How Slater | Grant Investigates FMCSA Violations
Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation into every commercial truck accident case. We obtain and review:
Driver Logbooks and Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data
These records reveal hours-of-service violations and other inconsistencies.
Truck Maintenance Records
We examine inspection logs, repair histories, and mechanic reports.
Black Box (Event Data Recorder) Information
This data includes speed, braking, hours driven, and more.
Cargo Loading Records
We check for improper securement, weight violations, and hazardous materials breaches.
Company Safety Policies
Internal documents may reveal systematic FMCSA violations.
Driver Background and Safety History
We investigate prior accidents, drug test results, and license status.
Surveillance Footage and Eyewitness Statements
Additional evidence helps build a clear picture of what happened.
Our goal is simple: uncover every violation and hold every negligent party accountable.
Compensation Available in a Tampa Commercial Truck Accident Case
Depending on the severity of your injuries and damages, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages
- Emergency room treatment
- Hospital bills and surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Ongoing medical care
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
- Scarring or disfigurement
Punitive Damages
May apply in cases involving egregious FMCSA violations or reckless company policies.
Why Choose Slater | Grant?
Truck accident cases require experience, resources, and an understanding of FMCSA regulations. At Slater | Grant, we provide:
- Aggressive investigation
- Industry knowledge
- Access to top accident reconstruction experts
- Strong negotiation skills
- Trial-ready representation
- Personalized client support
We fight to obtain the maximum compensation possible for our clients—and we don’t charge any fees unless we win your case.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident in Tampa, you deserve answers and accountability. The sooner you act, the better protected your rights will be.
Start by completing the free case evaluation form or calling us now at 813-995-6444.
Let Slater | Grant help you pursue justice, accountability, and the full compensation you deserve.
Sources
1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Provides federal regulations governing truck driver hours, maintenance standards, and commercial vehicle safety rules.
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov
2. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Offers research on large truck crashes, driver behavior, and safety data.
https://www.nhtsa.gov
3. Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
Provides statewide crash statistics, commercial vehicle regulations, and driver safety guidelines.
https://www.flhsmv.gov
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Transportation Safety
Includes research on motor vehicle injuries and safety risks.
https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/
