18-Wheeler Accidents in Rhode Island: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Compensation

The Rhode Island Trucking Crisis: Why These Accidents Are So Dangerous

Every year, Rhode Island’s highways become battlegrounds where passenger vehicles face off against 80,000-pound commercial trucks. The results are often catastrophic. Unlike car accidents, 18-wheeler collisions in Rhode Island frequently result in life-altering injuries or wrongful death due to the sheer physics involved.

Consider this: your average sedan weighs about 3,500 pounds. An 18-wheeler can legally weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. That means the truck is 22 times heavier than your car. When these two collide, the impact forces are devastating. The stopping distance for a loaded truck traveling at 65 mph is approximately 525 feet – nearly two football fields. This is why Rhode Island’s I-95 corridor, with its heavy truck traffic from Providence to Pawtucket, sees so many preventable tragedies.

“The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into a passenger vehicle in Rhode Island, lives change forever. The injuries we see – traumatic brain damage, spinal cord injuries, amputations – are not just medical issues. They’re human tragedies that affect families for generations.” — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Why Rhode Island’s Trucking Corridors Are So Dangerous

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it plays an outsized role in the national freight network. The I-95 corridor that runs through Providence, Warwick, and Pawtucket is one of the busiest trucking routes in New England, connecting major ports and distribution centers.

Rhode Island’s Most Dangerous Trucking Zones:

• I-95 through Providence: The heart of Rhode Island’s trucking traffic, where local commuters mix with long-haul trucks
• I-195 corridor: Connecting Providence to Massachusetts, this route sees heavy truck traffic serving the Port of Providence
• Route 146: A major truck route connecting I-95 to Worcester, Massachusetts
• Port of Providence: Rhode Island’s primary commercial port handling petroleum, vehicles, and bulk cargo
• Industrial zones in Pawtucket and Central Falls: Where local delivery trucks mix with residential traffic

Unique Rhode Island Challenges:

• Congestion: Rhode Island’s highways are among the most congested in New England, increasing accident risks
• Narrow lanes: Many Rhode Island roads weren’t designed for modern truck sizes
• Bridge restrictions: Low clearance bridges and weight-restricted spans create hazards
• Weather conditions: Nor’easters and winter storms create treacherous driving conditions
• Limited truck parking: Drivers often park in unsafe locations due to lack of designated rest areas

The Most Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s unique geography and traffic patterns create specific types of trucking accidents that we see repeatedly:

1. Rear-End Collisions on I-95

Rhode Island’s I-95 is notorious for rear-end collisions involving trucks. These often occur when:

• Trucks follow too closely in stop-and-go traffic
• Drivers are distracted by dispatch communications
• Brake systems fail due to poor maintenance
• Drivers violate hours-of-service regulations and fall asleep

Real Rhode Island Case Example:
A Providence family was traveling on I-95 when a fatigued truck driver rear-ended their vehicle at highway speeds. The impact caused the car to spin out of control and collide with a concrete barrier. The mother suffered a traumatic brain injury, and the father sustained multiple fractures. The trucking company had a history of hours-of-service violations that our investigation uncovered.

2. Underride Accidents at Rhode Island Intersections

Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. Rhode Island’s many intersections with limited visibility create perfect conditions for these deadly crashes.

Rhode Island-Specific Risk Factors:

• Poorly designed intersections with limited sight lines
• Inadequate or missing underride guards on older trailers
• Wide right turns by trucks at urban intersections
• Nighttime driving with insufficient lighting

Federal Requirements vs. Rhode Island Reality:
While federal law requires rear underride guards on trailers manufactured after 1998, there is no federal requirement for side underride guards. This means Rhode Island drivers are particularly vulnerable when trucks make turns at intersections or change lanes.

3. Jackknife Accidents on Rhode Island’s Highways

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Rhode Island’s winter weather and congested highways make these accidents particularly common.

Why Rhode Island Sees So Many Jackknife Accidents:

• Sudden braking on icy roads
• Speeding around curves (especially on I-95 near the Massachusetts border)
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers that are more prone to swinging
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit
• Brake system failures due to poor maintenance

4. Wide Turn Accidents in Rhode Island’s Urban Areas

Rhode Island’s dense urban areas like Providence, Pawtucket, and Central Falls create perfect conditions for wide turn accidents. These occur when:

• Trucks swing wide to the left before making a right turn
• Passenger vehicles enter the gap created by the wide turn
• Trucks cut corners at intersections, striking vehicles in adjacent lanes

Rhode Island-Specific Challenges:

• Narrow streets in historic downtown Providence
• Limited visibility at many urban intersections
• High pedestrian and bicycle traffic in city centers
• Trucks making deliveries in residential neighborhoods

5. Blind Spot Accidents on Rhode Island’s Highways

Trucks have massive blind spots – called “No-Zones” – where the driver cannot see other vehicles. Rhode Island’s congested highways create constant opportunities for blind spot accidents.

The Four No-Zones in Rhode Island Trucking:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward – this is the largest and most dangerous blind spot

Rhode Island Blind Spot Hotspots:

• Lane changes on I-95 through Providence
• Merging areas where I-195 connects to I-95
• Highway on-ramps and off-ramps
• Construction zones where lanes narrow

6. Tire Blowout Accidents on Rhode Island Roads

Rhode Island’s mix of highway and local roads creates perfect conditions for tire blowouts. These often occur when:

• Tires are underinflated, causing excessive heat buildup
• Tires are overloaded beyond their capacity
• Tires are worn beyond legal limits
• Road debris punctures the tire
• Manufacturing defects cause sudden failure

Rhode Island-Specific Tire Risks:

• Potholes and road debris on older Rhode Island roads
• Extreme temperature variations between seasons
• Long stretches of highway driving without inspection opportunities
• High percentage of older trucks in Rhode Island’s fleet

7. Cargo Spill Accidents in Rhode Island

Cargo spills are particularly dangerous in Rhode Island due to our dense population and limited highway space. When cargo isn’t properly secured:

• Debris falls onto roadways, creating hazards for following vehicles
• Cargo shifts during transit, causing rollovers
• Hazardous materials spill, creating environmental and health risks

Rhode Island’s Unique Cargo Spill Risks:

• Port of Providence: Handling petroleum and other hazardous materials
• Local delivery trucks: Often improperly loaded with mixed cargo
• Construction materials: Transported on Rhode Island’s many infrastructure projects
• Food and beverage shipments: Creating slip hazards when spilled

The Catastrophic Injuries Rhode Island Families Face

When an 18-wheeler crashes into a passenger vehicle in Rhode Island, the injuries are often catastrophic. The physics of these collisions – the massive weight and size disparity – mean that Rhode Island families frequently face life-altering consequences.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Rhode Island Trucking Accidents

TBI is one of the most common and devastating injuries we see in Rhode Island trucking cases. The extreme forces involved cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, resulting in various levels of brain damage.

Rhode Island TBI Statistics:

• Approximately 1,000 Rhode Islanders are hospitalized with TBI annually
• Motor vehicle crashes are the second leading cause of TBI in Rhode Island
• Rhode Island has excellent TBI rehabilitation centers, but treatment is extremely expensive

Rhode Island TBI Treatment Centers:

• Rhode Island Hospital: Level 1 Trauma Center with comprehensive TBI services
• Hasbro Children’s Hospital: Pediatric TBI specialty
• New England Rehabilitation Hospital: Long-term TBI rehabilitation
• Butler Hospital: Neuropsychological services for TBI patients

Lifetime Costs of TBI in Rhode Island:

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis in Rhode Island

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating consequences of Rhode Island trucking accidents. The extreme forces involved can sever or damage the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.

Rhode Island Spinal Cord Injury Resources:

• Spinal Cord Injury Network of New England: Support and advocacy
• Rhode Island Department of Health: Disability resources
• VA Providence Healthcare System: For veterans with spinal cord injuries
• Rhode Island Spinal Cord Injury Association: Peer support and education

Rhode Island-Specific Challenges:

• Many older homes in Rhode Island aren’t wheelchair accessible
• Limited accessible public transportation in some areas
• Harsh winters create additional mobility challenges
• High cost of living makes home modifications expensive

Amputations: The Rhode Island Reality

Amputations are tragically common in Rhode Island trucking accidents. These can occur at the scene when limbs are severed by the impact, or later when injuries are so severe that surgical amputation is required.

Rhode Island Amputation Support:

• Amputee Coalition: National organization with Rhode Island resources
• Rhode Island Orthopedic Center: Prosthetic services
• VA Providence: Prosthetic and rehabilitation services for veterans
• Rhode Island Limb Loss Support Group: Peer support network

The Rhode Island Amputation Experience:
Rhode Island’s small size means amputees often face unique challenges:

• Limited number of prosthetic providers in the state
• Travel required for specialized care
• Seasonal challenges with prosthetics (snow, ice, humidity)
• Limited accessible recreational opportunities

Severe Burns in Rhode Island Trucking Accidents

Burn injuries are particularly common in Rhode Island trucking accidents due to:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills from trucks serving the Port of Providence
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Chemical burns from leaking cargo

Rhode Island Burn Treatment Centers:

• Rhode Island Burn Center at Rhode Island Hospital: The only dedicated burn center in Rhode Island
• Shriners Hospitals for Children – Boston: Pediatric burn care
• Massachusetts General Hospital Burn Service: For complex cases

Rhode Island Burn Support:

• Rhode Island Burn Foundation: Support and advocacy
• Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors: National organization with local resources
• Rhode Island Burn Survivors Support Group: Peer support network

Wrongful Death: When Rhode Island Families Lose Loved Ones

When trucking accidents prove fatal, Rhode Island families face not only emotional devastation but also financial uncertainty. Rhode Island’s wrongful death laws allow surviving family members to seek compensation for their losses.

Rhode Island Wrongful Death Resources:

• Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General: Victim services
• Rhode Island Crime Victim Compensation Program: Financial assistance
• The Samaritans of Rhode Island: Grief support
• Hospice Care of Rhode Island: Bereavement services

Rhode Island Wrongful Death Damages:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

The Rhode Island Legal Process: What to Expect After a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Rhode Island, understanding the legal process can help you navigate this difficult time. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Immediate Medical Attention (Critical for Rhode Island Cases)

Rhode Island-Specific Considerations:

• Seek treatment at Rhode Island Hospital (Level 1 Trauma Center) for serious injuries
• For less severe injuries, visit urgent care centers like Care New England or Coastal Medical
• Document all injuries thoroughly – Rhode Island courts require strong medical evidence
• Follow all treatment recommendations from Rhode Island medical providers

Why This Matters in Rhode Island:
Rhode Island follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Proper medical documentation helps establish the extent of your injuries and their connection to the accident.

Step 2: Evidence Preservation (The Rhode Island Advantage)

Rhode Island-Specific Evidence Preservation:

• Black Box Data: Rhode Island trucking companies must preserve ECM/EDR data
• ELD Records: Electronic logging device data shows hours of service compliance
• Surveillance Footage: Rhode Island businesses often have cameras that captured the accident
• Witness Statements: Rhode Island’s dense population means more potential witnesses
• Police Reports: Rhode Island State Police and local departments document accidents thoroughly

Why This Is Critical in Rhode Island:
Rhode Island law imposes strict penalties for evidence spoliation. When we send spoliation letters to Rhode Island trucking companies, they are legally obligated to preserve all evidence. Failure to do so can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions to the jury
• Monetary sanctions
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages

Step 3: Investigation (Rhode Island-Specific Factors)

Our Rhode Island Investigation Process:

1. Accident Reconstruction: We work with Rhode Island-based experts who understand local road conditions
2. FMCSA Compliance Review: We obtain the trucking company’s safety records from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
3. Driver Qualification File: We subpoena the driver’s complete employment and training records
4. Maintenance Records: We obtain all inspection and repair records for the truck and trailer
5. Toxicology Reports: We obtain drug and alcohol test results
6. Cell Phone Records: We subpoena records to prove distracted driving
7. Witness Interviews: We interview Rhode Island witnesses while memories are fresh

Rhode Island-Specific Investigation Challenges:

• Port of Providence: Specialized cargo handling creates unique liability issues
• I-95 Corridor: High traffic volume means more potential witnesses but also more complexity
• Local Delivery Trucks: Rhode Island’s many local carriers may have different safety standards
• Weather Conditions: Nor’easters and winter storms create unique accident factors

Step 4: Demand Letter (Rhode Island Negotiation Strategies)

Rhode Island Demand Letter Components:

1. Liability Analysis: Detailed explanation of why the trucking company is at fault under Rhode Island law
2. Injury Documentation: Medical records from Rhode Island treatment providers
3. Damages Calculation: Breakdown of economic and non-economic damages
4. Insurance Coverage: Analysis of all available insurance policies
5. Settlement Demand: Specific dollar amount we believe is fair

Rhode Island Negotiation Factors:

• Pure Comparative Negligence: Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover
• No Damage Caps: Rhode Island doesn’t cap non-economic damages in personal injury cases
• High Jury Awards: Rhode Island juries have shown willingness to award significant damages in trucking cases
• Insurance Requirements: Rhode Island requires higher insurance limits for commercial trucks

Step 5: Litigation (When Rhode Island Negotiations Fail)

Rhode Island Litigation Process:

1. Complaint Filing: We file a lawsuit in the appropriate Rhode Island court
2. Discovery: Both sides exchange information and take depositions
3. Mediation: Rhode Island courts often require mediation before trial
4. Trial Preparation: We prepare your case for trial in a Rhode Island courtroom
5. Trial: If necessary, we present your case to a Rhode Island jury

Rhode Island Court System:

• District Court: Handles cases up to $10,000
• Superior Court: Handles most personal injury cases (no monetary limit)
• Federal Court: Handles cases involving federal law or parties from different states

Rhode Island Statute of Limitations:
Rhode Island has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. This means you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your case becomes harder to prove.

Step 6: Settlement or Trial (Rhode Island Outcomes)

Rhode Island Settlement Considerations:

• Most Rhode Island trucking cases settle before trial
• Settlement offers often increase as trial approaches
• Rhode Island’s pure comparative negligence system affects settlement values
• Rhode Island’s high cost of living means higher economic damages

Rhode Island Trial Considerations:

• Rhode Island juries can be plaintiff-friendly in trucking cases
• Rhode Island doesn’t cap non-economic damages
• Rhode Island allows punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
• Rhode Island’s small size means jurors often understand local issues

The Rhode Island Trucking Industry: Who’s Really Responsible?

When an 18-wheeler crashes in Rhode Island, multiple parties may share responsibility. Understanding who these parties are and how they contribute to accidents is crucial for building a strong case.

1. The Truck Driver (Rhode Island’s Most Common Culprit)

Rhode Island truck drivers can be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of Rhode Island traffic laws

Rhode Island-Specific Driver Issues:

• Port of Providence drivers: Often under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules
• Local delivery drivers: May be unfamiliar with Rhode Island’s narrow streets
• Long-haul drivers: Often fatigued from driving through multiple states
• Independent owner-operators: May have different safety standards than large carriers

2. The Trucking Company (Rhode Island’s Deepest Pockets)

Rhode Island trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the highest insurance limits and the most responsibility for safety.

Bases for Trucking Company Liability in Rhode Island:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

Rhode Island Trucking Companies We’ve Faced:
While Attorney911 is based in Texas, we handle trucking cases throughout the United States, including Rhode Island. We’ve litigated against major carriers that operate in Rhode Island, including:

• National carriers with Rhode Island terminals
• Regional carriers serving New England
• Local Rhode Island delivery companies
• Port of Providence logistics providers

3. Cargo Owners and Shippers (Rhode Island’s Hidden Liability)

Rhode Island’s Port of Providence and numerous distribution centers mean cargo owners and shippers play a significant role in trucking safety.

Bases for Shipper Liability in Rhode Island:

• Provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured carriers to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics

Rhode Island-Specific Cargo Issues:

• Petroleum products: The Port of Providence handles significant petroleum shipments
• Vehicle imports: Many cars are imported through Rhode Island ports
• Hazardous materials: Rhode Island’s industrial base creates unique hazmat risks
• Food and beverage: Rhode Island’s many restaurants and grocery stores create specialized cargo needs

4. Cargo Loading Companies (Rhode Island’s Third-Party Risk)

Rhode Island’s many warehouses and distribution centers often use third-party loading companies. These companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Rhode Island Loading Company Issues:

• Port of Providence: Specialized cargo handling creates unique risks
• Local warehouses: Often use temporary workers with limited training
• Seasonal variations: Holiday shipping creates peak loading periods
• Specialized cargo: Rhode Island’s diverse industries require specialized loading techniques

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers (Rhode Island’s Product Liability)

Rhode Island’s diverse trucking fleet includes vehicles of all ages and conditions. Manufacturer liability may apply for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Rhode Island-Specific Manufacturer Issues:

• Older trucks: Rhode Island’s fleet includes many older vehicles
• Specialized equipment: Vehicles modified for Rhode Island’s narrow streets
• Winterization: Vehicles not properly equipped for Rhode Island winters
• Port equipment: Specialized vehicles used at the Port of Providence

6. Parts Manufacturers (Rhode Island’s Component Liability)

Rhode Island’s trucking industry relies on parts from numerous manufacturers. These companies may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Rhode Island-Specific Parts Issues:

• Tire failures: Rhode Island’s winter conditions create unique tire risks
• Brake failures: Rhode Island’s hilly terrain creates brake stress
• Lighting failures: Rhode Island’s foggy conditions require proper lighting
• Coupling failures: Rhode Island’s many local delivery trucks create unique risks

7. Maintenance Companies (Rhode Island’s Repair Liability)

Rhode Island’s many truck repair shops and maintenance facilities may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Rhode Island Maintenance Issues:

• Port maintenance: Specialized vehicles require specialized maintenance
• Local repair shops: May lack expertise with newer truck technologies
• Seasonal maintenance: Rhode Island’s winters create unique maintenance needs
• Quick turnaround: Pressure to get trucks back on the road quickly

8. Freight Brokers (Rhode Island’s Logistics Liability)

Rhode Island’s position in the national freight network means many loads are arranged through freight brokers. These companies may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Rhode Island Broker Issues:

• Port logistics: Many loads to/from the Port of Providence are brokered
• Local delivery: Rhode Island’s many small carriers create brokerage opportunities
• Seasonal freight: Holiday shipping creates unique brokerage challenges
• Specialized cargo: Rhode Island’s diverse industries require specialized brokers

9. Truck Owners (Rhode Island’s Owner-Operator Liability)

Rhode Island has many owner-operators who own their own trucks and contract with larger carriers. In these cases, both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable.

Bases for Owner Liability in Rhode Island:

• Negligent entrustment of vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of driver’s unfitness

Rhode Island Owner-Operator Issues:

• Port work: Many owner-operators serve the Port of Providence
• Local delivery: Rhode Island’s many small businesses use owner-operators
• Seasonal work: Owner-operators often handle seasonal freight
• Specialized cargo: Owner-operators often transport specialized cargo

10. Government Entities (Rhode Island’s Infrastructure Liability)

Rhode Island’s state and local governments may be liable in limited circumstances for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Rhode Island Government Liability Considerations:

• Sovereign immunity: Rhode Island law limits government liability
• Notice requirements: Strict deadlines for filing claims against government entities
• Actual notice: Must prove the government knew about the dangerous condition
• Discretionary function: Government decisions about road design may be protected

Rhode Island Government Entities We’ve Faced:

• Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT)
• Rhode Island State Police
• City of Providence
• City of Pawtucket
• City of Warwick
• Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority

Rhode Island’s FMCSA Violations: The Key to Proving Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations apply to virtually all 18-wheelers in Rhode Island. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.

Rhode Island’s Most Common FMCSA Violations

1. Hours of Service Violations (Rhode Island’s #1 Problem)

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue. Rhode Island sees frequent violations of these critical safety rules.

Rhode Island Hours of Service Requirements:

Why Rhode Island Sees So Many HOS Violations:

• Port of Providence: Drivers under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules
• I-95 Corridor: Long-haul drivers passing through Rhode Island often push limits
• Local delivery: Rhode Island’s many small carriers may have lax enforcement
• Seasonal freight: Holiday shipping creates peak demand periods

2. False Log Entries (Rhode Island’s Paper Trail Problem)

Rhode Island trucking companies frequently falsify log books or ELD records to hide hours of service violations.

Rhode Island False Log Examples:

• Drivers logging off-duty time while actually driving
• Multiple drivers using the same log book
• ELD data manipulation
• “Ghost drivers” logged to hide actual driving time
• Pre-filled log books that drivers just sign

Why False Logs Matter in Rhode Island:
Rhode Island’s pure comparative negligence system means that even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages. However, proving the truck driver was fatigued due to HOS violations can significantly increase your recovery by reducing your percentage of fault.

3. Failure to Maintain Brakes (Rhode Island’s Stopping Problem)

Brake failures are a major factor in Rhode Island trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations require regular brake inspections and maintenance.

Rhode Island Brake System Requirements:

• Service brakes on all wheels
• Parking/emergency brake system
• Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
• Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

Why Rhode Island’s Terrain Creates Brake Issues:

• Hilly terrain: Rhode Island’s hills create brake stress
• Stop-and-go traffic: Congested areas like Providence create brake wear
• Winter conditions: Salt and sand create corrosion
• Port operations: Heavy loads create brake strain

4. Cargo Securement Failures (Rhode Island’s Shifting Problem)

Rhode Island’s diverse cargo types create unique cargo securement challenges.

Rhode Island Cargo Securement Requirements:

• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured
• Must withstand 0.8g deceleration (sudden stop)
• Must withstand 0.5g acceleration and lateral forces
• Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight

Rhode Island-Specific Cargo Securement Issues:

• Port cargo: Specialized cargo requires specialized securement
• Construction materials: Often improperly secured on local trucks
• Food and beverage: Creates slip hazards when spilled
• Hazardous materials: Requires specialized securement and placarding

5. Unqualified Drivers (Rhode Island’s Hiring Problem)

Rhode Island trucking companies sometimes hire unqualified drivers to meet demand.

FMCSA Driver Qualification Requirements:

• Must be at least 21 years old (18 for intrastate)
• Must read and speak English sufficiently
• Must be physically qualified under § 391.41
• Must have valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Must complete a road test or equivalent
• Must not be disqualified under § 391.15

Rhode Island Driver Qualification Issues:

• Port drivers: Often hired quickly to meet demand
• Local delivery: May not require CDLs for smaller trucks
• Seasonal drivers: Temporary drivers may lack proper training
• Independent contractors: May not be properly vetted

6. Drug and Alcohol Violations (Rhode Island’s Impairment Problem)

Rhode Island sees its share of impaired truck drivers on the roads.

FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Rules:

• No Schedule I substances
• No amphetamines, narcotics, or impairing substances
• No alcohol within 4 hours of driving
• No alcohol while driving (.04 BAC or higher)
• No alcohol possession while on duty

Rhode Island Drug and Alcohol Testing:

• Pre-employment testing
• Random testing
• Post-accident testing
• Reasonable suspicion testing
• Return-to-duty testing
• Follow-up testing

7. Mobile Phone Use (Rhode Island’s Distraction Problem)

Distracted driving is a growing problem in Rhode Island trucking.

FMCSA Mobile Phone Rules:

• No hand-held mobile telephone use while driving
• No reaching for mobile phone in manner requiring leaving seated position
• No texting while driving

Rhode Island Distracted Driving Penalties:

• Fines up to $2,750 for drivers
• Fines up to $11,000 for employers allowing violations
• Disqualification from operating commercial vehicles

8. Failure to Inspect (Rhode Island’s Maintenance Problem)

Rhode Island truck