Attorneys
Last Updated: 4/20/2023
Yes, there are truck regulations and laws for truck drivers in Iowa. Some of these are in addition to regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Such regulations and laws may be cited by an injury lawyer when bringing a truck accident injury case, especially if the driver was in violation of law.
Iowa Laws for Truck Drivers
One of the laws in Iowa pertains to texting. All drivers, including those who operate semi-trucks, are banned from texting while driving. Talking on a hand-held cell phone is also prohibited.
In terms of accident reporting, an accident report must be filed in Iowa if any of the following is true:
- property damage of all vehicles is $1,500 or greater;
- at least one person is injured; and/or
- at least one person is killed.
Further, and more specific to truckers, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces rules pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials. This falls under the Transportation of Hazardous Materials Driving and Parking Rules. Trucks transporting such material are required to have a placard.
If there is an accident in Iowa involving a truck carrying hazardous materials, local law enforcement or Iowa State Patrol Communications should be notified. Other agencies that will get involved include the Iowa DOT’s Office of Motor Vehicle Enforcement and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Injury Lawyers Can Review Truck Regulation Violations
Laws for truck drivers are numerous and also include maximum weight and length requirements when operating on Iowa’s roads and highways. If there is a concern that a law or regulation was violated and it was the cause of a crash, an injury lawyer may help sort out fault and liability for the accident. Victims can consult an attorney about the truck regulations that may have been violated and discuss how it may affect a claim.
