Consequences of FMCSA Rule Violations for Trucking Companies

Texas highways are the arteries of commerce, carrying everything from groceries to construction materials. But sharing these roads with massive 18-wheelers also brings serious risks. When trucking companies and drivers follow the law, the system works. But when greed or negligence causes them to ignore federal safety standards, innocent motorists in Dallas–Fort Worth pay the price.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules to keep truck drivers, trucking companies, and the public safe. These rules cover driver work hours, mandatory drug and alcohol testing, truck inspections, cargo securement, and more. Yet, every year, violations of these rules cause devastating truck accidents on I-35, I-20, I-30, and other DFW highways.

At Francis Injury, we’ve seen firsthand how violations of FMCSA regulations lead to catastrophic injuries. Our Dallas and Fort Worth truck accident lawyers know exactly how to investigate, uncover violations, and hold negligent companies accountable. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck crash, you deserve answers — and justice.

Why FMCSA Rules Matter for Dallas–Fort Worth Drivers

FMCSA regulations exist for one simple reason: safety. Large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making them extremely dangerous if not operated properly. In a region like DFW — with some of the busiest interstates in Texas — a single violation can mean multi-car pileups, life-changing injuries, or even wrongful death. Understanding these rules is key to proving liability in a truck accident case.

Key FMCSA Regulations That Impact Texas Drivers

The FMCSA enforces a wide range of safety regulations. When trucking companies in Dallas or Fort Worth cut corners, they put everyone at risk. Below are some of the most critical rules that, when violated, often lead to serious accidents in Texas.

Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers must follow strict limits on how long they can drive before taking breaks. Violations include falsified logbooks or exceeding daily/weekly limits, often leading to fatigued driving crashes on I-35 or Loop 820.
Drug & Alcohol Testing: Mandatory pre-employment, random, and post-accident testing prevents impaired driving. Companies that skip these safeguards expose Texans to drunk or drugged truck drivers.
Truck Maintenance: Regular inspections and repairs are required. Failing brakes, worn tires, or broken lights often surface in Dallas–Fort Worth accident investigations.
Cargo Securement: Improperly tied or overloaded cargo can spill across highways, causing pileups on busy routes like I-30.
Licensing & Medical Exams: Only drivers with valid CDLs and medical clearance can legally operate. Hiring unqualified drivers is a serious violation.
Hazardous Materials: Trucks hauling hazardous waste or fuel must follow strict handling, labeling, and route restrictions. Shortcuts can have catastrophic results in urban areas like Fort Worth.

These rules aren’t optional. They exist to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. When ignored, the consequences are immediate and often tragic.

Consequences of FMCSA Violations

What Happens When a Trucking Company Violates FMCSA Rules

When trucking companies break FMCSA rules, they face consequences ranging from federal penalties to life-changing lawsuits. Here’s what’s at stake:

Fines and Penalties

The FMCSA can impose fines of thousands of dollars per violation. For example, falsifying driver logs or failing drug tests can result in steep financial penalties. These fines don’t just punish — they also signal unsafe practices to insurers and regulators.

Suspensions and Shutdowns

Repeat offenders may lose their operating authority, meaning they can no longer run trucks legally. In Texas, this can put entire fleets off the road, forcing companies out of business.

Civil Lawsuits

Victims injured in crashes caused by FMCSA violations have the right to pursue personal injury lawsuits. Civil courts allow recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Criminal Liability

When violations involve reckless conduct or result in fatalities, trucking company owners and drivers may face criminal charges. Prosecutors in Dallas County and Tarrant County have pursued charges ranging from reckless driving to manslaughter in such cases.

Reputation Damage

Beyond legal fallout, companies with FMCSA violations often lose contracts, struggle with skyrocketing insurance premiums, and see long-term damage to their reputation in Texas and beyond.

How Attorneys Prove FMCSA Violations in Dallas–Fort Worth Truck Accident Cases

Proving an FMCSA violation requires skill, experience, and the right resources. At Francis Injury, our team uses a multi-step approach to uncover the truth and hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Driver Logbooks & ELD Data: Electronic logging devices reveal whether drivers exceeded legal hours of service limits.
Maintenance & Inspection Records: We examine whether routine checks were performed or if companies ignored defects.
Drug & Alcohol Test Results: Positive tests or skipped screenings are critical evidence.
Black Box Data: Many trucks carry event data recorders showing speed, braking, and more at the time of the crash.
Police Reports & Witness Testimony: Independent accounts often highlight unsafe practices.
Company Policies & Prior Violations: A history of cutting corners can prove negligence at the corporate level.
Expert Witnesses: Accident reconstruction and compliance experts connect the dots between violations and injuries.

This evidence can mean the difference between a denied claim and full compensation. Our Dallas–Fort Worth truck accident lawyers know how to obtain, analyze, and present it effectively in court.

Legal Options for Truck Accident Victims in Dallas–Fort Worth

If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by FMCSA violations, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Texas law gives victims powerful rights to seek compensation.

Personal Injury Claims: Cover medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care.
Wrongful Death Claims: Families of victims can recover damages for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional loss.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish reckless companies.

At Francis Injury, we provide free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless we win. Our team has decades of experience holding trucking companies accountable across North Texas — from downtown Dallas to rural Tarrant County highways.

Truck Accident Risks in Dallas–Fort Worth

The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex is a hub for freight traffic, with major highways like I-35, I-20, and I-30 serving as commercial lifelines. Unfortunately, these same roads see a high volume of truck accidents. According to the NHTSA and TxDOT, Texas consistently leads the nation in large truck fatalities. Many of these crashes stem directly from FMCSA violations such as fatigue, speeding, and improper maintenance.

Local drivers in Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas often share congested highways with long-haul trucks rushing to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. When companies push drivers to break federal rules, it’s the public that suffers.

Visit Our Fort Worth Office

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, our Fort Worth office is here to help. Conveniently located downtown, our team is ready to meet with you and explain your options.

Address:
640 Taylor St Suite 1200B
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Phone: (817) 329-9001

Get a Free Case Review Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by FMCSA violations, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Our Dallas–Fort Worth truck accident attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Estimate My Compensation

Schedule a Free Consultation

Call Us Now: (817) 329-9001

FMCSA Violations in Texas – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FMCSA?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is the federal agency that regulates commercial trucking in the U.S. It sets rules for safety, licensing, maintenance, and driver conduct.

What happens if a trucking company falsifies logbooks?

Falsifying driver logs is a serious FMCSA violation. It can lead to federal fines, higher insurance rates, and civil liability if an accident occurs.

How do I know if FMCSA violations caused my accident?

Experienced truck accident lawyers can investigate logbooks, electronic data, and maintenance records to determine if rule violations contributed to your crash.

Can FMCSA violations lead to criminal charges?

Yes. In extreme cases involving reckless conduct or fatalities, drivers and companies can face criminal charges such as reckless driving or even manslaughter.

Are Texas truck accident victims entitled to punitive damages?

In cases of gross negligence, Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish dangerous trucking practices and deter future misconduct.

Do trucking companies fight these claims?

Yes. Trucking companies and their insurers often fight hard to deny responsibility. That’s why having an attorney experienced with FMCSA rules is critical.

How much time do I have to file a truck accident claim in Texas?

Generally, Texas gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, acting quickly strengthens your case.

Why choose Francis Injury for my truck accident case?

Our Dallas–Fort Worth attorneys have decades of experience proving FMCSA violations and winning major recoveries for truck accident victims.