Orange County Trucking Laws

California trucking laws exist to help preserve and protect the safety of truck drivers, other motor vehicle drivers, pedestrians, and even the environment. California trucking laws are a specific set of statutes passed by the state that govern myriad aspects of trucking operation. In addition to these state laws, federal trucking regulations are also enforced for any truck engaged in interstate travel. In some cases-such as for truck emissions rules-California trucking laws are stricter than federal laws. In other cases-such as "hours of operations" statutes-the federal laws are stricter than California law.

Our attorneys have a comprehensive understanding of California Trucking Laws.

California trucking laws are complex and ever changing. If you have been in a trucking accident in California and/or have legal questions, it is important to contact a knowledgeable and experienced California trucking attorney. Our qualified attorneys at Aitken Aitken &Cohn are available to inform you of the California trucking laws pertinent to your case. Furthermore, our intimate understanding of these laws enables us to provide you the most effective representation possible in your case. Please contact us today to learn more about California trucking laws.

Read on to learn about some of the many California trucking laws that relate to truck accident liability.

• Right lane rule. Improper lane use is one of the most common causes of trucking accidents. Under California trucking laws, commercial trucks must ride in the far right lane of traffic. If they are travelling on a divided highway with more than 4 lanes, they may also ride in the lane left of the furthest right lane. Buses (except trailer buses, school buses, and those towing other vehicles) can drive in any lane.
• Speed Limits. Excessive and unsafe speeds are the second most common cause of trucking accidents. According to California trucking laws, the following vehicles are subject to a 55 MPH speed limit:
  • A truck or truck tractor with three or more axles
  • Any vehicle towing another vehicle or transporting explosives
  • School buses
  • A farm labor vehicle with passengers
  • A trailer bus
• Furthermore, truck drivers are prohibited to drive faster than is safe for conditions at any time. Conversely, truckers are prohibited from driving so slow as to interrupt or prevent normal traffic movement unless such slow speeds are necessary for safety.
• Former Offenses. Many truck drivers who have been involved in an accident have had a prior driving offense. A driver can be disqualified from operating a commercial truck for the following offenses: excess speeds, reckless driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following too close, violating a traffic law and causing an accident, driving without proper license.
• Alcohol use. Alcohol use is a major contributing factor to serious trucking accidents. According to California trucking law, it is illegal to operate a truck with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or more.

To learn more about California trucking laws, please contact our experienced attorneys today.