The commercial trucking industry is essential to our economy. According to the American Trucking Associations, there are an estimated 14 million commercial trucks registered in the United States that move over 72 percent of all freight in the nation.
These trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded and can cause devastating injuries in an accident. Drivers operating these massive vehicles must be adequately screened to ensure the safety of all motorists.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has created a Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) to help trucking companies screen drivers before they are placed behind the wheel of a commercial truck. If drivers are not adequately screened and trained, trucking companies can be held liable for damages incurred in accidents caused by the driver.
If you have been injured in a truck accident in Chicago or the surrounding area, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. However, insurance companies often use unfair tactics to deny or devalue your claim so they can pay you as little as possible. You need the assistance of an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer to help you secure maximum compensation.
How Does the Pre-Employment Screening Program Work?
The United States Department of Transportation authorized the use of the Pre-Employment Screening Program in 2005, under U.S. Code, Title 49 §31150. This statute requires the FMCSA to maintain electronic records about commercial drivers for pre-screening purposes.
The parties who have access to PSP reports include authorized motor carriers, validated commercial drivers, and industry service providers.
The PSP can help trucking companies determine whether to hire a driver by providing information about a driver’s history of accidents and of inspections. Employers can use the PSP report to learn whether a driver has had recent violations or accidents, which can help them choose safer drivers.
What Is Included in a Driver’s PSP Report?
The PSP report provides information that may not be available on motor vehicle records and background checks. The PSP shows a driver’s three year roadside inspection history, as well as a five year crash record. It also gives detailed information on the driver’s employment record and any Department of Transportation violations.
Additionally, it includes information on any hours of service violations, alcohol and drug violations, and other data from the Motor Carrier Management Information System.
How Can PSP Records Be Used in a Truck Accident Injury Case?
PSP records are most likely to be used to prove or defend against a claim of negligence.
The PSP record comes directly from the FMCSA, it is considered a strong piece of evidence in a truck accident injury case. It can be used to show that a driver had a clean record and that a trucking company acted with reasonable care when hiring them.
However, if a trucking company did not access a driver’s PSP report, or the report shows a history of violations or accidents, it can be used to show negligence on behalf of the trucking company.
You need an experienced Chicago injury lawyer who knows how to uncover and use the best evidence to prove your claim and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Meyers & Flowers, our truck accident lawyers know how to investigate your accident to identify all possible causes and liable parties. We know how to locate and gather essential evidence, like PSP records, to build your strongest case.
Our Chicago truck accident lawyers have helped secure over $6 billion in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We have the experience, skills, and resources to help you recover maximum compensation for your damages. Call (630) 824-3963 or visit our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your truck accident claim.