Trucking Accidents Lawyer For Driving Hour Log Violations
When a large truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating. Determining exactly why the crash happened is a complex process. One of the most critical areas we examine is the truck driver’s logbook and their compliance with federal hours-of-service (HOS) regulations.
At Keefe, Keefe & Unsell, P.C., our attorneys have a deep understanding of how driver fatigue and regulatory breaches lead to serious accidents. Based in Bellville, Illinois, we have spent years holding trucking companies accountable for putting fatigued drivers on the road.
What Are The Federal Hours-Of-Service Rules?
Federal hours-of-service regulations strictly limit how long a commercial driver can be on duty and driving.
They mandate specific periods of rest. The primary goal is to make sure drivers are alert, but violations are unfortunately common.
Common Logbook Violations And Their Impact
A logbook is a legal document. When it is inaccurate, it is a form of falsification. Common issues we see include:
- Exceeding the 11-hour driving window within a 14-hour work shift.
- Fudging times for off-duty periods to make it appear the driver was resting.
- Not logging all hours spent behind the wheel.
- Skipping the required 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
These violations directly contribute to driver fatigue, slowing reaction times and impairing judgment.
How We Investigate And Prove Logbook Violations
After an accident, we subpoena the driver’s logbooks, but we also gather electronic evidence from the truck’s:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
- GPS records
- Fuel receipts
- Weigh station documentation
Proving a logbook violation means showing the undisputed truth of the driver’s schedule versus their recorded hours.
Your Right To Fair Compensation
If a crash was caused by a driver who was on the road in violation of HOS rules, that driver and their company are responsible for the harm caused. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident in southern Illinois, call Keefe, Keefe & Unsell, P.C., at 618-403-7152 or fill out the online form to discuss your case. Free case review.