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Large Truck Safety Measures Being Considered by U.S. Senate

The U.S. Senate has the power to affect positive change in the trucking industry. Currently, several measures before the Senate have the potential to keep dangerous trucks and truckers off the road. If the measure is passed and put into effect, it could have a real impact on 18 wheeler accident prevention in Grapevine, TX and nationwide.

Proposed 18 Wheeler Safety Measures
The Senate is currently considering the following semi-truck safety measures:

• Requiring on-board recorders on all trucks and buses (to be complied with within one year)

• Stopping trucking companies from "reincarnating" after being shut down for safety violations

• Making new motor carriers prove knowledge of safety regulations by written examination

• Requiring the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin studies that determine factors that may cause commercial vehicle accidents (i.e. lengthy detention times at shipping yards and the impact of oversize loads on accident rates and bridge failure)
• Creating a paperless hazard communication system between truck drivers, emergency responders, and police

Will Safety win Over Budget Concerns?

While everyone can agree that safer highways are important, it is yet to be seen if safety measures can be passed despite national budget concerns. Even if the bills are passed, they must be approved by the Finance committee. The Chairman of Finance, Max Baucus (D-Mont.) has expressed concerns that even maintaining transportation funding will be a challenge. Before they can approve the new, $109 billion safety measures, the committee must find $12 billion to offset current levels of transportation spending.

Our Grapevine large truck accident attorneys will be keeping a close eye on the outcome of the new transportation bills. We hope that a deal can be reached by which the budget is kept on track and the trucking industry is made safer. Have you been hurt in an accident with a semi-truck in Grapevine? You are not alone. Take charge of your future; contact an experienced North Texas 18 wheeler crash lawyer at 817.380.4888 for your free consultation.