Pennsylvania CMV Regulations

The laws surrounding commercial motor vehicles in Pennsylvania are specific, strict, and were designed to ensure traffic safety for everyone who shares the road with a commercial vehicle. Pennsylvania law recognizes a CMV (commercial motor vehicle) as any motor vehicle used on a highway to transport passengers or property that meets one of the following qualifications:

• Weighs more than 17,000 pounds;
• Is designed to transport more than 8 passengers including the driver for compensation;
• Is designed to transport more than 15 passengers including the driver, but not for compensation;
• Is a school bus;
• Transports hazardous materials.

Anyone operating a CMV must hold a commercial driver’s license, also known as a CDL. In order to qualify for a CDL, drivers must meet very strict requirements including:

• 21 years of age or older;
• Have 20/40 vision (or better) or wear glasses – and cannot be color blind;
• Have hearing of 10/20 (or better) in his or her best ear;
• Must read and speak English sufficiently to read road signs and understand law enforcement;
• Must undergo physical exams at least every two years;
• Must be free of mental impairment that would interfere with safe driving.

Commercial truck drivers must also keep a log book documenting their status for every 24-hour period within a seven-day timeframe. The log book should show whether the driver is on or off duty, and whether sleeping or awake. In addition to the log book, drivers must keep a vehicle inspection report that documents the status of their vehicle and equipment.

Drivers who fail to follow these regulations can be fined, as can the trucking company, or motor carrier. However, many trucking companies prefer to pay a few fines if it enables them to meet delivery deadlines.

Contact Our Truck Accident Lawyers Today

Under Pennsylvania law, if you have been injured in a truck accident that was caused by another person's carelessness or recklessness, you may be entitled to recover damages that include medical costs, property loss, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Munley, Munley & Cartwright, our goal is to provide exceptional legal services to our clients. Our Pennsylvania truck accident lawyers strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence for the protection of individual rights through team work and the use of our considerable resources and experience. For a free consultation regarding your legal concerns, contact our truck accident lawyers online today or call us toll free at (800) 318-LAW1.