It has been four years since Daniel McGuire was killed in a big rig crash. Now, “Daniel’s Law” is going to take effect.
In July of 2014, Daniel was going to work when he slowed down behind a line of traffic on a steep descent. He was fatally struck from behind by a large eighteen-wheeler that slammed into a line of 10 cars. The truck could not stop and it was weighed down by two trailers full of dirt.
The family soon learned that the driver of the truck did not have any behind-the-wheel training, despite having his commercial driver’s license.
“Daniel’s Law,” also known as SB 1236, “will require commercial truck drivers to have behind-the-wheel training, on top of new federal safety standards, before setting out onto California’s roads.” It was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown on September 30.
At the Compass Law Group, we know that large trucks pose many dangers on the roadway. If you need a Los Angeles truck accident attorney, you can count on us to get the compensation you deserve.
Types Of Trucks
When you go out for the day, how many of the following trucks do you see on the roadways during your commute?
- Tractor trailers
- Cement trucks
- Garbage trucks
- Mail delivery trucks
- Construction trucks
There are more than 15.5 million large trucks on the roadways and they all play a vital role in keeping our economy moving. They deliver goods and work to ensure we have a sound infrastructure.
What Can Happen
The story above shows one of the many dangers these trucks, their drivers, and truck companies pose for California drivers. All drivers need to be thoroughly trained in every vehicle they will be using.
Truck drivers should never operate while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Doing so endangers everyone on the roadways around them. Distracted driving is just as dangerous. Any time a driver looks at a cell phone or other device, they are taking their eyes off the roadway.
Drivers should also always adhere to all regulations when it comes to how many hours they are allowed to drive. If they do not and end up falling asleep at the wheel, the results will not be good.
It is vital that truck companies and owners regularly inspect and maintain each vehicle. If they do not, they risk vehicle failure which can cause a driver to lose control of the truck.
When vehicles of this size crash, they have the ability to hurt many people at once. They weigh tens of thousands of pounds and injuries can be severe.
What You Can Do
If you have been injured in a truck accident and you believe someone else’s negligence was to blame for the incident, please seek legal assistance. At the Compass Law Group, our knowledgeable and experienced attorneys are ready to take your case. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling (800) 602-4010. We will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need for all of your accident-related expenses.
