How Michigan’s Trucking Regulations Affect Your Truck Accident Case In Detroit
When you’re involved in a crash with a commercial truck in Detroit, the legal issues can be much more complicated than a standard car accident. As attorneys who handle serious truck accident claims throughout Michigan, we know that state and federal trucking regulations often play a critical role in determining fault, proving negligence, and building a strong case for compensation. These rules aren’t just technical—they exist to protect drivers and ensure that trucking companies operate safely on public roads.
Truck drivers and their employers must follow a wide range of safety requirements under both Michigan law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Violations of these rules can directly impact your case. If a driver failed to rest, drove an overloaded vehicle, or skipped necessary maintenance, those actions could be used to show that the trucker or the company put others at risk.
Key Michigan Trucking Laws That May Affect Your Case
Michigan law applies several key requirements to truck drivers and carriers operating in the state. Under the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.701 et seq.), commercial motor vehicles must meet specific standards for size, weight, equipment, and roadworthiness. If these vehicles violate load limits or safety regulations, they may be considered unlawfully operated. This can be strong evidence of negligence in a crash claim.
In addition, Michigan adopts many FMCSRs, including:
- Hours of Service Limits – Drivers are generally restricted to 11 hours of driving time after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Driving beyond this limit can cause fatigue and increase crash risks.
- Vehicle Maintenance – Trucking companies must perform regular inspections and repairs under 49 CFR § 396. If a brake failure or tire blowout caused the accident, maintenance records become critical.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing – Federal rules require pre-employment, post-accident, and random drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers. Any violation could impact liability in your case.
We review driver logs, black box data, employment records, and inspection reports to uncover violations that might explain how and why the crash happened. When a trucking company or driver cuts corners, we make sure it doesn’t go unnoticed.
How These Rules Help You Prove Negligence
In any Michigan injury case, the injured party must prove negligence. That means showing that the truck driver or carrier failed to act with reasonable care. When we can demonstrate that they violated a law or safety regulation, that often satisfies this requirement.
Under Michigan law (MCL 257.401), vehicle owners are generally responsible for the negligent operation of their vehicles by others with their consent. That means if a trucking company knew its driver had a poor record or failed to ensure their vehicle was safe, it could be held liable.
Additionally, violations of safety laws can be used as evidence of “negligence per se”—a legal concept that may simplify the process of proving fault. Courts may accept that a party who violated a safety law was negligent without further proof of carelessness.
Michigan’s No-Fault Law And Truck Accident Claims
Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, which means your own insurance company typically covers your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. But in serious injury cases, you can go beyond no-fault benefits and sue the at-fault party for pain and suffering and other damages.
Under MCL 500.3135, you must show that you suffered a “serious impairment of body function” or permanent disfigurement to file a third-party claim. Truck accidents often cause life-changing injuries, making most victims eligible to pursue compensation beyond their no-fault policy.
We help you gather the medical evidence, crash reports, and witness statements needed to meet this threshold and seek full damages from the negligent party.
Who Can Be Held Responsible In A Truck Accident Case
Truck accident claims often involve multiple parties, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The owner of the trailer
- The cargo loader
- Maintenance providers
- Insurance carriers
We identify all responsible parties to maximize your claim. Trucking companies and insurers have aggressive legal teams and resources to fight liability. You need a team that knows how to hold them accountable.
Truck Accident Claim Frequently Asked Questions
How Does A Trucking Violation Affect My Injury Claim?
If the truck driver or their company violated a state or federal safety regulation, it can be used to prove negligence in your case. For example, if the driver exceeded the legal hours of service or failed to inspect the vehicle properly, that violation could support your claim for compensation. We investigate these violations thoroughly and present them as evidence.
What Damages Can I Recover After A Truck Accident In Michigan?
If your injuries meet the serious injury threshold under Michigan law, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future care needs. In some cases, punitive damages may also apply if the conduct was reckless or grossly negligent.
Can I Sue The Trucking Company Even If The Driver Was At Fault?
Yes. Under Michigan law, trucking companies can be held liable for the actions of their drivers when those actions occur within the scope of employment. If the company hired an unqualified driver or failed to enforce safety rules, we can pursue a claim against them directly.
What Should I Do If I’m Injured In A Truck Crash?
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel okay initially. Then, document the scene with photos, gather contact information from witnesses, and avoid speaking with the trucking company’s insurer without legal counsel. Contacting an attorney early helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Claim In Michigan?
Under Michigan’s statute of limitations (MCL 600.5805), you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, claims involving government vehicles or wrongful death may have different timelines. The sooner you start, the better we can protect your case.
Does Michigan’s No-Fault Law Limit My Compensation After A Truck Accident?
Not if your injuries qualify under MCL 500.3135. No-fault benefits cover medical expenses and lost wages, but serious injuries allow you to pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault driver or company for full damages, including pain and suffering.
Talk To A Detroit Truck Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Michigan, state and federal trucking regulations may play a major role in your case. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we know what to look for, and we know how to hold trucking companies accountable for unsafe practices and negligence.
Contact our Detroit truck accident lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. We represent truck accident victims across Detroit and the entire state of Michigan from our office in Southfield. Let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
