The Perazzo Law Firm answers the question: What Are the FMCSRs?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) are a set of rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The Truck accident lawyers at the Perazzo Law Firm understand that these regulations govern the operation, maintenance, and safety standards for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) that transport goods or passengers across state lines. The purpose of these laws is to promote road safety, prevent accidents, and ensure that trucking companies, bus operators, and hazardous materials carriers follow consistent national standards.

The FMCSRs apply to all entities engaged in commercial transport, including trucking companies, bus lines, hazmat carriers, and commercial vehicle drivers. Anyone operating a CMV with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more in interstate commerce is subject to these regulations.

Scope and Applicability of FMCSRs

The FMCSRs apply to both interstate and intrastate commerce, meaning they impact companies and drivers transporting cargo or passengers within or between states. These rules cover:

• Freight and passenger transportation
• Hazardous material shipments
• Vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. GVWR

Additionally, the regulations extend to employees “while employed” by a motor carrier, emphasizing accountability not only for drivers but also for employers who manage fleets, safety programs, and operational compliance.

Key Areas of Federal Trucking Regulations

Driver Qualifications (Part 391)
Drivers must meet strict qualification standards, including minimum age requirements and possession of a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Regular medical exams ensure they are physically fit to operate large vehicles safely.

Hours of Service (HOS) (Part 395)
HOS rules limit driving time to 11 hours for property carriers and 10 hours for passenger carriers, within a maximum 14–15 hour on-duty window. Mandatory breaks and rest periods help prevent driver fatigue.

Vehicle Maintenance & Inspections (Parts 393 & 396)
Carriers are required to perform routine safety inspections and maintain detailed maintenance logs to ensure vehicles are roadworthy.

Hazardous Materials Handling (Part 177)
These rules govern the proper labeling, placarding, and emergency response procedures for hazardous materials to minimize risk during transport.

Drug & Alcohol Testing (Part 382)
All CMV operators must undergo pre-employment, random, and post-accident testing. Violations lead to immediate disqualification.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) (Part 395, Subpart B)
Most commercial drivers must use ELDs to digitally track hours of service and ensure compliance with federal rest requirements.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Standards (Part 383)

Drivers must pass written knowledge and skills tests to obtain a CDL. Additional endorsements are required for transporting hazardous materials, passengers, or operating tankers. Certain violations, such as DUI or reckless driving, can result in disqualification or suspension of CDL privileges.

How FMCSR Violations Are Proven in Truck Accident Cases

In the aftermath of a trucking accident, attorneys often use FMCSR evidence to establish negligence or liability. Key evidence includes:

• ELD data and black box records
• Driver qualification files and safety history
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Onboard video or audio recordings
• Police reports and company training policies

This evidence helps determine whether a carrier or driver violated federal safety standards and contributed to the crash.

Legal Help for FMCSR-Related Truck Accidents

At The Perazzo Law Firm, our attorneys have extensive experience handling truck accident cases involving FMCSR violations. We investigate compliance records, identify negligent carriers or drivers, and hold them accountable for unsafe practices. Our legal team fights aggressively against trucking companies and insurers to secure maximum compensation for victims injured in commercial vehicle crashes.

Contact The Perazzo Law Firm Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Florida, Georgia, or Texas, our legal team is ready to help.
Call 888-PERAZZO for a FREE consultation 24/7 or visit www.theperazzolawfirm.com
Your safety is our priority, so let us handle the legal burden while you focus on recovery.