The trucking industry plays a crucial role in the economy of New York State, facilitating the movement of goods and services across the state and beyond. However, the industry is subject to a complex web of federal and state regulations designed to ensure the safety of truck drivers, other road users, and the public.
Experienced truck accident attorneys stay up to date and informed on federal and state rules and regulations. These rules are well known in the trucking industry but are often overlooked or unknown to the general public or even many competent personal injury attorneys. At Feroleto Law, our truck accident attorneys have been handling catastrophic truck and bus accidents for decades.
We know the rules and know how to investigate whether a trucking company has been following the rules. The catastrophic injuries resulting from these accidents can be life-changing, and you may need a skilled catastrophic injury lawyer to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Federal Regulations
Before delving into state-specific laws, it’s essential to understand that New York State trucking companies must comply with federal regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees these regulations, which include:
- Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations: These rules limit the number of hours a driver can operate a truck, to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Property carrying drivers are typically limited to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour workday, only after a 10-consecutive hour off-duty period.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Trucks must be equipped with ELDs to track driving hours and ensure compliance with HOS regulations.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements: Drivers must hold a valid CDL, which requires passing written and road tests and meeting specific medical standards.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing: Drivers are subject to random drug and alcohol testing to ensure they are not impaired while operating a commercial vehicle.
New York State-Specific Regulations
In addition to federal regulations, New York State imposes several state-specific trucking laws and regulations that drivers and trucking companies must follow:
Weight and Size Limits
New York State has specific limits on the weight and size of commercial vehicles. Transportation experts have long warned about the dangers of heavier trucks. A 2016 Department of Transportation study advised against increasing truck size or weight, finding 47-400% higher crash rates for heavier rigs in limited state testing. It also documented more brake violations and out-of-service defects compared to 80,000-pound trucks.
Trucks must not exceed the following dimensions:
- Width: 8.6 feet
- Height: 13.6 feet
- Length: Varies by vehicle type, but generally around 40-53 feet for single vehicles and up to 65 feet for combination vehicles
- Weight: The maximum allowable weight is typically 80,000 pounds, including the vehicle, cargo, and passengers.
Trucks that exceed these limits must obtain special permits from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). These permits specify the routes and times trucks can travel to minimize disruption and damage to infrastructure.
Route Restrictions
Certain roads and bridges in New York State have restrictions on truck traffic. These restrictions are often based on weight, size, and potential damage to infrastructure. Trucking companies must plan routes carefully to avoid restricted areas and ensure compliance with state laws. Trucks with 53-foot trailers may travel only on the portions of I-95, I-695, I-295, and I-495 that cross the city between the Bronx-Westchester County line and Queens-Nassau County line.
Safety Inspections
New York State conducts regular safety inspections on commercial vehicles to ensure they meet safety standards. These inspections include checking brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components. Trucks that fail to meet these standards may be taken out of service until necessary repairs are made.
Insurance Requirements
Trucking companies operating in New York State must carry adequate insurance coverage. The minimum insurance requirements vary based on the type of cargo being transported and the vehicle’s weight. Generally, liability coverage must be sufficient to cover potential damages in case of an accident.
Emissions Standards
New York State has strict emissions standards to reduce air pollution from diesel trucks. The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) mandates that older diesel engines must be retrofitted or replaced to meet current emissions standards. Additionally, the state encourages the use of alternative fuel vehicles and offers incentives for adopting cleaner technologies. Trucks operating in the state must pass periodic emissions testing to ensure compliance.
Compliance and Penalties
Non-compliance with federal and state trucking regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines, suspension of driving privileges, and even the shutdown of trucking operations. Therefore, it is crucial for trucking companies and drivers to stay informed about the latest regulations and ensure they are in full compliance.
Trucking laws and regulations in New York State are designed to enhance road safety, protect the environment, and ensure the efficient movement of goods. By adhering to these regulations, trucking companies and drivers can contribute to a safer and more sustainable transportation system. Staying updated on regulatory changes and investing in compliance measures are essential steps in maintaining a successful and lawful trucking operation in New York State.
We Can Help
If you or a loved one was injured in a Buffalo truck accident, Batavia truck accident, Thruway truck accident, or bus accident, contact truck accident attorney John Feroleto or Kate Feroleto at 716-427-0242 for a confidential trucking lawyer consultation to discuss what you need to do to protect yourself and your family. John Feroleto served as the chair of the interstate trucking litigation section of the American Association for Justice, which includes top trucking attorneys in the United States. Kate and John are members of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.
Attorney John Feroleto
Attorney John Feroleto understands the value of hard work. He is known in the community and by his peers for his willingness to work and go the extra mile. Other lawyers often ask John to handle their trial matters to maximize clients’ recovery. Trial lawyers know who the best trial lawyers are. He was also named Trial Attorney of the Year in 2012 by the Western New York Affiliate of New York State Trial Lawyers Association. [ Attorney Bio ]
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