Each year, there are thousands of fatal crashes that occur as a result of speeding. Although speeding is a major concern among all drivers, the United States is focused on placing a nationwide mandate on the maximum speed limit on all vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds. If the legislation passes, the maximum speed limit certain trucks and buses may be able to obtain could be 60, 65, or 68 miles per hour due to an installed mechanism that will not allow those vehicles to surpass the mandated maximum.
Arguments Against the Proposal
The proposed legislation is an attempt to curtail the large number of trucking accidents associated with speeding. However, speeding is not the only cause of fatal accidents in West Virginia and throughout the United States. While many are supporting the proposed law, others criticize the legislation for several reasons:
- Opponents argue that the mandated maximum would create more of a hazard on the highway as other motorists will speed or engage in other dangerous behaviors to pass trucks and buses. Many have argued that it will present more of a safety hazard than currently exists making trucks susceptible to even more accidents than what currently occurs.
- Those who are in support of the proposal argue that the proposal should be applied to all trucks and buses. They oppose the proposal for a more restrictive proposal which requires the safety mechanism on all trucks and buses weighing more than 26,000 pounds not just those which will be newly manufactured.
- Many assert that speeding is not the only cause of fatal accidents in West Virginia and throughout the United States. Distracted driving are another major cause of many accidents, including accidents involving truck drivers. There are concerns that forcing truckers to drive slower may create a false sense of security for truck drivers to feel in more control, leading to an increase in multitasking while driving.
Contact Colombo Law Today
The damages that follow an accident or incident can be drastic, especially when caused by a speeding or distracted driver. When a truck or bus is involved in an accident, the damages are even more substantial, if not fatal. Damages suffered typically include lost wages, out of pocket medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. These expenses can quickly cause financial strife or financial ruin. One of the main goals of the attorneys at Colombo Law is to restore your sense of security by rebuilding your financial wealth.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a West Virginia trucking accident or incident, contact Colombo Law today. Colombo Law is a personal injury firm with experienced lawyers. Our firm handles cases in and around Morgantown, Fairmont, Clarksburg, Bridgeport, Kingwood, Grafton, Weston, Philipi, Buckhannon, Elkins, and Parkersburg, as well as Monongalia, Marion, Harrison, Preston, Taylor, and Lewis counties. For an initial consultation, contact our office today.
