O le faʻasalalauga o faʻalavelave a le 18-Wheeler i Amerika Samoa: O lau Taiala Faʻafuaseʻi Faʻatonutonu

Afai o oe po o se uo e uiga i se faʻalavelave a le 18-wheeler i Amerika Samoa, e ono tatau ona e faʻafitauli i faʻafitauli faigata. E mafai ona faigata le faʻaleagaina o le tino, le traumaga faʻaleagaga, ma le faʻalavelave tau tupe. O loʻo mālamalama le Atuati911 i faʻapitoa o faʻalavelave o le faʻatutuina o taavale i le vaega o le Pasefika, ma o loʻo ia matou iinei e fesoasoani ia te oe e sui i lenei taimi faigata.

Malamalama i Faʻalavelave a le 18-Wheeler i Amerika Samoa

O auala i Amerika Samoa e fesootaʻi ma faʻafitauli faapitoa mo faiga faʻatutuina o taavale faʻatau. E leai se faʻavae o auala i le malo autu o Amerika, ae o loʻo i ai i la matou atunuu ni faiga faʻafoega faʻapitoa e tautua ai o matou uafu, malae vaʻalele, ma faiga faʻasoa. O auala autu e aofia ai:

• Pago Pago i Tafuna: O lenei auala autu e fesootaʻi ai le matagaluega o matou i le malae vaʻalele i tuāʻoloa ma vaega faʻapolokiki, e aofia ai le tele o le faʻatutuina o taavale
• Auala faʻatapulaʻa i le Uafu o Pago Pago: E faʻatutuina ai taavale koneteina e faʻasaoina ai mea faʻatau mai o matou faiga uafu
• Auala Malo o Amerika Samoa 001 (AS001): O le auala autu e faʻatasi ai le motu o Tutuila
• Auala lomiga e tautua ai o matou nuʻu: E faʻatutuina ai taavale e tuʻuina atu mea e manaʻomia mo nuʻu

O le maualuga faapitoa o matou motu e faia ai faʻafitauli faapitoa mo faiga faʻatutuina o taavale. O le maualuga, auala laupapa, ma timuga e mafai ona faia ai auala faigata mo taavale faʻatau tele. E faʻaopoopo i lea, o le tau i matou e mafai ona faʻaitiitia le maualuga o vaega o taavale, e faʻaitiitia ai le faʻaitiitia o le le atoatoa.

Aisea e Faʻasolosolo Faʻasolosoloina o Faʻalavelave o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

O faʻalavelave o le faʻatutuina o taavale i Amerika Samoa e faʻaalia ai faʻamatalaga faʻapitoa faʻapitoa ma faʻatonuga:

1. Taliu Faʻamalologa Faigata: O le nofoaga o matou motu e faigata ona oʻo mai le faʻamalologa faʻafuaseʻi, e mafai ona faʻaitiitia le maualuga o le faʻaleagaina.
2. Faʻatutuina o Taavale e uiga i le Uafu: O le tele o le faʻatutuina o taavale faʻatau e faʻatatau i le Uafu o Pago Pago, e faia ai le tele o taavale i vaega faapitoa.
3. Mālōlōga Faʻasāmoa: O le siʻosiʻomaga o matou nuʻu e faʻaalia ai o faʻalavelave e aʻafia ai le tele o aiga ma e iai ni faʻalavelave faʻalapotopotoga.
4. Faʻamalositino Faigata: E leai ni faiga faʻamalositino taavale ma le faʻamalositino i Amerika Samoa, e mafai ona faia ai faʻafitauli faʻamalositino.
5. Mea Faʻatau Faapitoa: O taavale e faʻatutuina ai mea faʻatau faapitoa mo matou motu, e aofia ai iʻa mata, mea faʻapipiʻi tuna, ma mea faʻatau faʻaopoopo.
6. Faʻalavelave Faʻataʻitaʻi: O faʻalavelave e aʻafia ai le faʻatutuina o taavale vaʻaiga poʻo taavale e tautua ai le galuega faʻataʻitaʻi e iai ai ni faʻamatalaga faʻapitoa faʻapitoa.

Faʻafitauli Faʻaalia o Faʻalavelave a le 18-Wheeler i Amerika Samoa

E ui lava o mafuaʻaga autu o faʻalavelave o taavale e tutusa i le lalolagi atoa, o nisi o faʻamatalaga e faʻapena i Amerika Samoa:

Le Faʻamalologa ma le Faʻalavelave o Taimi o Auaunaga

O le tele o tagata faʻatutuina taavale i Amerika Samoa e galulue i taimi umi e tutusa ai ma faʻamaoniga o mea faʻatau, e faʻapena i mea faʻatau faʻaopoopo e pei o iʻa mata. O tulafono o Auaunaga o Auaunaga (HOS) e aʻafia ai faiga faʻatutuina taavale faʻatau i Amerika Samoa:

• Faʻatapulaʻa Faʻatutuina 11-Itula: E mafai ona faʻatutuina e le tagata faʻatutuina le tele o itula e 11 pe a uma le 10 itula o le malolo faʻatapulaʻa
• Faʻatapulaʻa Auaunaga 14-Itula: E le mafai ona faʻatutuina e le tagata faʻatutuina le taimi e 14 itula pe a uma ona alu e galulue
• Faʻamatalaga o le Faʻamalologa 30-Minute: E tatau ona faia e le tagata faʻatutuina se malologa e 30 minute pe a uma le 8 itula o le faʻatutuina
• Faʻatapulaʻa o le 60/70-Itula i le Vaitau: E le mafai ona faʻatutuina e le tagata faʻatutuina pe a uma le 60 itula i le 7 aso poʻo le 70 itula i le 8 aso

O le faʻaleagaina o nei tulafono e masani i Amerika Samoa ona o le puipuia e faia ai faʻamaoniga o faʻamaoniga ma le le atoatoa o tagata faʻatutuina.

Faʻapipiʻiina o Mea Faʻatau Le Faʻapitoa

O mea faʻatau faapitoa o matou motu e manaʻomia ai ni auala faapitoa mo le faʻapipiʻiina:

• Iʻa ma mea talo faʻapipiʻi: E manaʻomia le faʻamalolo ma le faʻapipiʻiina lelei e pei o le le faʻaputuputuina ma le le faʻaleagaina
• Mea faʻapipiʻi tuna: Mea faʻatau mamafa e tatau ona faʻapipiʻiina lelei e le faʻaleagaina
• Mea faʻatau faʻaopoopo: E masani ona faʻatutuina i koneteina e tatau ona faʻapipiʻiina lelei i taavale

O mea faʻatau e le faʻapipiʻiina lelei e mafai ona faʻalavelave i le faʻatutuina, e mafai ona faia ai faʻalavelave faʻalavelave poʻo le tuʻuina atu o mea faʻatau e faʻaleagaina ai isi tagata faʻatutuina.

Le Atoatoa o Mea Faigaluega

O le tau ma le ea masima i Amerika Samoa e faʻaitiitia ai le le atoatoa ma le faʻaleagaina o vaega o taavale:

• Le atoatoa o faʻamalologa: E masani ona tupu ona o le faʻaleagaina ma le le atoatoa o le faʻamalositino
• Le atoatoa o taifi: O le vevela ma auala e faʻaitiitia ai le mafai ona tupu ai le le atoatoa
• Le atoatoa o faiga faʻatutuina: E mafai ona faʻaleagaina ai vaega faʻapitoa e le ea masima
• Le atoatoa o faʻamalama: E mafai ona faʻaleagaina ai faiga uila e le ea masima

Auala Faigata

O auala i Amerika Samoa e faʻaalia ai faʻafitauli faapitoa mo tagata faʻatutuina taavale:

• Maualuga: Faapitoa i auala i luga o maualuga
• Auala laupapa: E tele o auala i matou e le faʻatulagaina mo taavale faʻatau tele
• Vili maumau: Faapitoa i auala maunga
• Timuga masani: E faia ai auala faigofie ma le le malamalama
• Itulau faigata: E faaitiitia le avanoa mo gaioiga faʻafuaseʻi

Le Aʻoaʻoga o le Tagata Faʻatutuina

E tele tagata faʻatutuina taavale i Amerika Samoa e ono leai ni aʻoaʻoga e uiga i:

• Auala faʻatutuina maunga
• Auala faʻapitoa mo le faʻapipiʻiina o mea faʻatau faapitoa
• Faiga faʻafuaseʻi mo auala faigata o matou motu

Ituaiga o Faʻalavelave a le 18-Wheeler e Masani i Amerika Samoa

Faʻalavelave i luga o Auala Maualuga

O le maualuga ma vili maumau i auala maunga e faia ai ni faʻafitauli faigata mo taavale, e faapena i le:

• Faʻatutuina vave i vili
• Mea faʻatau e le faʻapipiʻiina lelei e faʻalavelave
• Le atoatoa o faʻamalologa i luga o faʻalavelave umi
• Le atoatoa o taifi i luga o auala le lelei

O faʻalavelave faʻalavelave i luga o auala maunga laupapa i matou e mafai ona pupuni ai le faʻatutuina mo itula ma e mafai ona faia ai le faʻaleagaina faʻafuaseʻi i isi tagata faʻatutuina.

Faʻalavelave e uiga i le Uafu

O le Uafu o Pago Pago o le ola o matou motu, ae e iai foʻi le tele o le faʻatutuina o taavale i vaega faapitoa:

• Faʻalavelave i faʻamalologa: Taavale e alu mai/i le uafu
• Faʻalavelave faʻaleagaina: A o vaʻa laiti e maua i lalo o taavale
• Tuʻuina atu o mea faʻatau: A o koneteina poʻo mea faʻatau e tuʻuina atu i auala
• Faʻalavelave Tagata oti: I vaega uafu matagofie ma le tele o tagata oti

Faʻalavelave Faʻalavelave

E masani i auala autu e tupu ai le faʻatutuina o taavale i tua o isi vaʻa:

• Faʻatutuina nuʻu
• Tagata oti
• Meaola i auala
• Faia o auala

E manaʻomia e taavale le tele o avanoa e faʻamalolo ai nai lo vaʻa laiti, e faapena i auala timuga.

Faʻalavelave Faʻatutuina Vave

O auala laupapa i matou e faia ai faʻafitauli faigata mo faʻatutuina vave:

• Taavale e faʻatutuina vave e faia faʻatutuina i avanoa laiti
• Isi vaʻa e faʻatali i le taumatau
• Le malamalama ona o le vevela tropika
• Tagata oti ma tagata faʻatutuina uila e maua i vaega le malamalama

Faʻalavelave Tuʻuina Atu o Mea Faʻatau

E faapitoa i Amerika Samoa ona o mea faʻatau faapitoa:

• Iʻa mata e tuʻuina atu i auala
• Mea faʻapipiʻi tuna e faia ai faʻafitauli i auala
• Mea faʻatau faʻaopoopo e paʻu mai taavale
• Tuʻuina atu o mea faigaluega faʻaleagaina

Faʻaleagaina Faʻafuaseʻi mai Faʻalavelave o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

O le le masani o le tele ma le mamafa o taavale 18-eletise ma vaʻa faʻatino e faʻaalia ai o faʻalavelave o le faʻatutuina o taavale i Amerika Samoa e masani ona faia ai le faʻaleagaina faʻafuaseʻi:

Faʻaleagaina o le Ulu Faʻalavelave (TBI)

O TBI e masani i faʻalavelave o taavale ona o le malosi o malosi. E mafai ona aofia ai ni faʻamatalaga:

• Uluulu ma le faʻalavelave
• Faʻalavelave ma le le malamalama
• Suiga o le lototea ma le tagata
• Le malamalama
• Le leiloa o le mafaufau

I Amerika Samoa, e faigata ona maua le togafitiga faʻapitoa mo le ulu, e manaʻomia ai le faʻamamafa i Hawaii poʻo le malo autu o Amerika mo le togafitiga.

Faʻaleagaina o le Tui ma le Faʻamaʻi

O faʻaleagaina o le tui e mafai ona faia ai:

• Faʻamaʻi (le leiloa o le malosi i lalo o le suilapalapa)
• Faʻamaʻi (le leiloa o le malosi i vaega uma)
• Faʻaleagaina e le atoatoa ma le malosi e le atoatoa
• Faʻaleagaina atoatoa ma le leiloa o le malosi atoa

E mafai ona faigata le nofoaga i matou motu mo tagata e maua i faʻaleagaina o le tui.

Faʻaleagaina

O faʻaleagaina faʻapipiʻi mai faʻalavelave o taavale e mafai ona faia ai:

• Faʻaleagaina faʻapipiʻi i le taimi o le faʻalavelave
• Faʻaleagaina faʻapitoa ona o le faʻaleagaina maualuga
• Faʻaleagaina o vaega e tele
• Le maualuga o auaunaga faʻapitoa i Amerika Samoa, e manaʻomia ai le malaga mo togafitiga faʻapitoa

Le Atoatoa o le Faʻafuaseʻiga

O le malosi o malosi i faʻalavelave o taavale e mafai ona faia ai:

• Le atoatoa o le ate ma le faʻafitauli
• Faʻaleagaina o le fatafata
• Faʻaleagaina o le fatu
• Toto i totonu
• Faʻaleagaina o le manava ma le manava

Le Oti Le Faʻamalosia

E masani lava, o le tele o faʻalavelave o taavale i Amerika Samoa e faia ai le oti. E mafai ona faia ni talosaga le oti le faʻamalosia e:

• Toeaʻi ola
• Fanau a le mate
• Matua o fanau e le faʻaipoipo
• Isi tagata e faʻatatau i ai

O ai e Leai i Amerika Samoa 18-Wheeler Faʻalavelave?

E tele tagata e mafai ona faia ai le leai i le faʻaleagaina:

Le Tagata Faʻatutuina Taavale

E mafai ona leai le tagata faʻatutuina mo:

• Faʻatutuina vave poʻo le faʻatutuina le lelei
• Faʻatutuina faʻalavelave (faʻaaogaina o telefoni feaveaʻi, GPS, faʻamatalaga o le faʻamaoniga)
• Faʻatutuina faʻamalologa i tua atu o tulafono faʻatonu
• Faʻatutuina faʻafuaseʻi (vaipoa, faʻaluso)
• Le faʻamaonia o suʻesuʻega faʻapitoa
• Faʻaleagaina o tulafono o le auala

Le Kamupani Faʻatutuina Taavale

E mafai ona tuua le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e ala i:

• Le leai o le leai: Mo gaioiga faʻaleagaina a le tagata faʻatutuina i totonu o le galuega
• Le faʻamaonia o le faʻalagolago: Faʻalagolagoina tagata faʻatutuina le lelei poʻo le leaga
• Le faʻamaonia o le aʻoga: Aʻoga faʻamalieina
• Le faʻamaonia o le pulega: Le le faʻamalosia o le faʻatinoga o le tagata faʻatutuina
• Le faʻamaonia o le faʻamalositino: Faʻamalositino le lelei o taavale
• Le faʻamaonia o le faʻatapulaʻaina: Puipuia le tagata faʻatutuina e faʻaleagaina ai tulafono HOS

Tagata Faʻatau ma Tagata Faʻasoa Mea Faʻatau

O kamupani e aʻoaʻoina ma faʻasoa mea faʻatau e mafai ona leai mo:

• Tuʻuina atu o faʻatonuga faʻapipiʻiina le lelei
• Le faʻaalia atu o mea faʻatau faʻaleagaina
• Faʻamaoniga o mea faʻatau e sili atu i le mamafa
• Puipuia le faʻatau e faʻaitiitia ai le taimi
• Le faʻaalia atu o mea faʻatau faapitoa

Kamupani Faʻapipiʻi

O kamupani lomiga e faʻapipiʻiina faʻapitoa mea faʻatau e mafai ona leai mo:

• Le faʻapipiʻiina lelei o mea faʻatau
• Faʻasologa o mea faʻatau e le lelei
• Faʻaitiitia le mamafa o le mamafa
• Le faʻaaogaina o le faʻapipiʻiina ma le faʻapipiʻiina lelei
• Le aʻoaʻoina o tagata faʻapipiʻi i tulafono faʻapipiʻiina

Tagata Faia ma Tagata Faʻamalosi

E mafai ona leai tagata faia mo:

• Faʻaleagaina o mea faigaluega i faiga o taavale
• Faʻaleagaina o vaega i vaega
• Le faʻaalia atu o mataupu faigata e iloa
• Faiga faʻamalieina e le lelei

Tagata Faʻatau a le Malo

I ni tulaga faapitoa, e mafai ona faia e tagata faʻatau a le malo le leai mo:

• Fuafuaga o le auala le lelei
• Le faʻamalositino lelei o auala
• Le lelei o faʻamatalaga
• Le faʻapipiʻiina o faʻamau faʻamalieina
• Fuafuaga le lelei o le vaega o galuega

Faʻamatalaga Faʻapitoa i Tulaga o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

O le puipuia o faʻamatalaga e faʻapena i Amerika Samoa ona o le nofoaga o matou motu ma le le atoatoa o faʻamatalaga:

Faʻamatalaga Uila

• Faʻamatalaga ECM/Black Box: E faʻamaonia ai le faʻatutuina, faʻamalologa, tulaga o le faʻatutuina, ma koodi o le le atoatoa
• Faʻamaumauga ELD: Faʻamaonia ai le faʻamaonia poʻo le faʻaleagaina o itula o auaunaga
• Faʻamatalaga GPS: Faʻaalia ai le ala, le faʻatutuina, ma le faʻamaumauga o le nofoaga
• Faʻamaumauga o le Telefoni Feaveaʻi: Faʻamaonia ai le faʻatutuina faʻalavelave
• Faʻamatalaga o le Dashcam: E mafai ona faʻaalia ai le faʻalavelave

FAʻAPITOA: E mafai ona tapeina poʻo tapeina lenei faʻamatalaga. Matou tuʻuina atu fesili e puipuia lenei faʻamatalaga.

Faʻamaumauga o le Tagata Faʻatutuina

• Faila o le Aʻoaʻoga o le Tagata Faʻatutuina: Talosaga o le galuega, suʻesuʻega latalata, faʻamaoniga faʻapitoa
• Faʻamaumauga o le Faʻatutuina: Talaaga o le faʻaleagaina ma faʻalavelave
• Tusitusiga o Vaipoa ma Alakoholu: Suʻesuʻega muamua ma le suʻesuʻega faʻatapulaʻa
• Faʻamaumauga o le Aʻoga: Aʻoga faʻamalieina ma faʻatinoga
• Faatonuuga o le Pulega: Faatonuuga a le pule

Faʻamaumauga o le Taavale

• Faʻamaumauga o le Faʻamalositino ma le Faʻamalositino: Faʻaalia ai le faʻamalositino le atoatoa ma mataupu e iloa
• Lipoti o le Suʻesuʻega: Suʻesuʻega muamua, faʻamalologa, ma suʻesuʻega faʻapitoa
• Faatulagaga o le Le Atoatoa: Faʻaleagaina ma togafitiga muamua
• Faʻamaumauga o le Taifi: Talaaga o le sui ma le leo o le taifi
• Faʻamaumauga o le Faʻamalologa: Faʻamatalaga o le sui ma le talaaga o le faʻamalologa

Faʻamaumauga a le Kamupani

• Faʻamaumauga o Itula o Auaunaga: Mo le 6 masina i luma atu o le faʻalavelave
• Faʻamaumauga o le Faʻamaoniga: Faʻamaumauga o le malaga ma faʻamatalaga
• Bills of Lading: Faʻamaumauga o mea faʻatau
• Faʻatonuga Faʻamalieina: Faiga faʻamalieina a le kamupani
• Faʻatapulaʻiga o le Aʻoga: Mea aʻoga a le tagata faʻatutuina
• Talaaga o Faʻalavelave Muamua: Talaaga o le saogalemu o le kamupani

Faʻamatalaga Faaletino

• Le Taavale ma le Taavale: E tatau ona puipuia mo le suʻesuʻega
• Vaega le Atoatoa: Taifi, faʻamalologa, vaega faʻatutuina
• Mea Faʻatau ma Mea Faʻapipiʻi: Fuafuaga o mea faʻatau ma mea faʻapipiʻi
• Vaega o le Faʻalavelave: Mata, suʻega, faʻamau faʻamau, faʻamau faʻamau

Faiga Puipuia Faʻamatalaga 48-Ita

I Amerika Samoa, e leai ni faʻamatalaga e le oo mai i le taimi lava e pei o i le malo autu o Amerika ona o le le atoatoa o resitusi ma le nofoaga o matou motu. O la matou faiga 48-ita e aofia ai:

1. Faʻamatalaga Faʻamalologa Faʻatapulaʻa: Tuʻuina atu i tagata uma e mafai ona leai mo le puipuia o mea faitino uma
2. Download ECM/Black Box: Puipuia lea pe a uma ona tapeina le faʻamatalaga
3. Puipuia o Faʻamatalaga ELD: Puipuia faʻamaumauga o mea faʻamaumauga uila
4. Faʻamatalaga o le Dashcam: Puipuia mai kamera uma e mafai ona maua
5. Faʻamaumauga o le Vaega: Mata ma suʻega i le taimi muamua
6. Fesili i Tagata Vaʻaia: Fai i le taimi e teu ai le malamalama
7. Suʻesuʻega o le Taavale: Muamua o le faʻamalositino poʻo le tapeina
8. Faʻamaumauga o Mea Faʻatau: Puipuia bills of lading ma faʻamaumauga o mea faʻapipiʻi

Tulafono FMCSA ma le Faʻatutuina o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

O tulafono a le Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) e aʻafia ai faiga faʻatutuina taavale faʻatau i Amerika Samoa. O tulafono autu e aofia ai:

Vaega 390: Faʻaaogaina Faʻapitoa

• Faʻamatalaina ai o ai e tatau ona faʻatatau i tulafono faʻapitoa
• Aʻafia uma taavale faʻatau faʻatau i le faʻatau i le va o atunuʻu
• Tuʻuina atu faʻamatalaga faʻapitoa ma tulafono

Vaega 391: Aʻoaʻoga o le Tagata Faʻatutuina

• Faʻamauina tulafono faʻapitoa mo tagata faʻatutuina
• E manaʻomia e kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e puipuia Faila Aʻoaʻoga o le Tagata Faʻatutuina
• Faʻamauina tulafono faʻamaoniga faʻapitoa

Vaega 392: Tulafono Faʻatutuina

• Le faʻatagaina tagata faʻatutuina faʻamalologa poʻo le maʻi e faʻatutuina taavale faʻatau
• Faʻatonuina le faʻaaogaina o vaipoa ma le faʻaluso
• Faʻamauina tulafono o le faʻatutuina ma le tausiga o le mamafa
• Le faʻatagaina le faʻaaogaina o telefoni feaveaʻi i le faʻatutuina

Vaega 393: Saogalemu o le Taavale

• Faʻamauina tulafono o mea faigaluega
• Faʻamauina tulafono faʻapipiʻiina o mea faʻatau
• Faʻatonuina faiga faʻamalologa, faʻamalama, ma isi mea faʻamalieina

Vaega 395: Itula o Auaunaga

• Faʻaitiitia le taimi o le faʻatutuina e puipuia ai le faʻamalologa
• E manaʻomia faʻamalologa e 30 minute
• Faʻamauina tulafono o le faʻatutuina i le vaitau
• E manaʻomia mea faʻamaumauga uila (ELDs)

Vaega 396: Suʻesuʻega ma Faʻamalositino

• E manaʻomia suʻesuʻega faʻapitoa o taavale
• Faʻamauina tulafono o faʻamaumauga faʻamalositino
• Faʻamauina tulafono o le suʻesuʻega a le tagata faʻatutuina

Pe Faʻafefea ona Aʻafia ai le Faiga Faʻatonutonu o Amerika Samoa i Lou Tulaga

O Amerika Samoa e iai se faiga faʻatonutonu faapitoa e aofia ai ni vaega o tulafono faʻapitoa a le malo auau ma tulafono faʻaaloalo faʻasāmoa:

Tulafono o le Taimi

O Amerika Samoa e faʻaauau pea le tulafono o le taimi mo tulafono faʻaleagaina o le tagata, e masani lava o le 2 tausaga mai le aso o le faʻalavelave. E iai foʻi ni avanoa ma tulafono puʻupuʻu mo talosaga i luma o malo.

Le Faʻalavelave Faʻapitoa

O Amerika Samoa e faʻaaoga ai se faiga faʻalavelave faʻapitoa faʻapitoa. E mafai ona e maua le faʻamalologa pe a le o oe i le sili atu i le 50% o le leai. O lau faʻamalologa o le faʻamalologa e faʻaitiitia e lau tasi o le leai.

Tulaga o Faʻamalieina

E leai ni tulafono faapitoa mo tulafono faʻaleagaina o le tagata i Amerika Samoa. O lenei mea e faʻatagaina ai le komiti e maua ai le faʻamalologa mo le tiga ma isi mea e le faʻamaonia.

Faʻamatalaga o le Komiti

E maua ai faʻamatalaga o le komiti i Amerika Samoa mo tulafono faʻaleagaina o le tagata, e aofia ai faʻalavelave o taavale. O komiti faʻapitoa i matou e malamalama i faʻafitauli faapitoa o lo matou nuʻu.

Talosaga i le Malo

O talosaga i luma o malo i Amerika Samoa e iai ni faiga faapitoa ma tulafono puʻupuʻu. E faigata ona e faia ni mea vave pe a aʻafia ai se taavale a le malo poʻo auala i lou faʻalavelave.

Mea e Tatau ona E Faia Pe A Uma ona Faʻalavelave a le 18-Wheeler i Amerika Samoa

Afai o oe i se faʻalavelave o taavale i Amerika Samoa:

1. Vili le 911 vave: Faʻasalalau le faʻalavelave ma talosaga fesoasoani faʻafuaseʻi
2. Mauaina fomaʻi: E ui lava e masani lava ona le lelei le faʻaleagaina, e tatau ona e suʻesuʻeina
3. Faʻamaumau le vaega: Ave ni mata ma vitio o:
   • Faʻaleagaina uma o taavale
   • Le vaega o le faʻalavelave ma auala
   • Ou faʻaleagaina
   • Faʻamau faʻamau ma mea e tuʻuina atu
   • Faʻamatalaga o le auala ma faʻamatalaga
4. Faʻamaumau faʻamatalaga:
   • Numera o le numera o taavale ma taavale
   • Igoa o le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale ma numera DOT
   • Igoa o le tagata faʻatutuina, numera CDL, ma faʻamatalaga e faʻafesootai
   • Igoa o tagata vaʻaia ma faʻamatalaga e faʻafesootai
5. Aua le tuʻuina atu faʻamatalaga: Aua le tuʻuina atu faʻamatalaga i kamupani faʻapipiʻi
6. Vili se atamai vave: E mafai ona tapeina vave le faʻamatalaga faapitoa i Amerika Samoa

Aisea e Fiafia i le Atuati911 mo Lou Tulaga o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

I le Atuati911, matou te tuʻuina atu ni faʻamatalaga faapitoa mo tagata faʻaumatia i faʻalavelave o taavale i Amerika Samoa:

Iloa Faʻapitoa

Matou te malamalama i faʻapitoa o le faʻatutuina o taavale i Amerika Samoa, e aofia ai:

• O matou faiga uafu ma le faʻatutuina o taavale e uiga i ai
• Faʻafitauli o le faʻatutuina i auala maunga
• Malosi o le taliu faʻamalologa faʻapitoa
• Mālōlōga faʻasāmoa i le siʻosiʻomaga o matou nuʻu
• Mea faigaluega faigata ma mea faʻamalositino

Aʻoaʻoga o le Faamasinoga Faʻapitoa

O loʻo faʻamaonia la matou pulega failautusi, Ralph Manginello, i le Faamasinoga Faʻapitoa o le Malo, Faʻamau o Texas, e maua ai le malosi e suʻe ai i tulafono faʻapitoa faʻapitoa e mafai ona tupu mai le faʻatau i le va o atunuʻu i Amerika Samoa.

Tagata Puipuia Faʻapipiʻi

O loʻo galulue la matou failautusi, Lupe Peña, mo se kamupani puipuia faʻapipiʻi faʻapitoa mo tausaga. Ua iloa e ia pe faʻafefea ona suʻeina e kamupani faʻatutuina taavale ma kamupani faʻapipiʻi faʻamatalaga e faʻaitiitia ai talosaga. Ona faʻaaogaina lea o lenei malamalama i totonu e taua mo oe.

Faʻataʻitaʻiga Faʻaalia

Ua maua e matou le $50+ miliona mo matou tagata komepiuta, e aofia ai ni faʻamalologa e tele i tulafono o taavale. O matou mauaina e aofia ai:

• $5+ miliona mo se tulaga faʻaleagaina o le ulu
• $3.8+ miliona mo se tulaga faʻaleagaina
• $2.5+ miliona mo se faʻamalologa mai faʻalavelave o taavale
• Miliona mo aiga i tulafono le oti le faʻamalosia

Faiga Faʻapitoa

Matou te faia mea uma o lou tulaga:

• Puipuia vave o faʻamatalaga
• Suʻesuʻeina atili i tagata uma e leai
• Faʻaauaupesega ma tagata fomaʻi
• Faʻasalaga faigata ma kamupani faʻapipiʻi
• Suʻesuʻeina ma le faʻasalaga pe a manaʻomia

Faʻamatalaga o le Faʻatau

Matou te galulue i luga o se faʻatau – e te le totogi se mea pe a leai ni mauaina i lou tulaga. Matou te faʻaopopo uma tupe o le suʻesuʻeina ma le faʻasalaga, e mafai ai ona e faʻaauau ma le faʻaleleia.

Fesili Masani e uiga i Faʻalavelave o Taavale i Amerika Samoa

O le a le mea e tatau ona ou faia pe a uma ona faʻalavelave a le 18-wheeler i Amerika Samoa?

Pe a faʻamaonia le saogalemu ma vili ai le fesoasoani faʻafuaseʻi:

• Maua se fomaʻi, e ui lava o le le lelei o le faʻaleagaina
• Faʻamaumau le vaega ma mata ma vitio
• Faʻamaumau faʻamatalaga e faʻafesootai ma le tagata faʻatutuina ma tagata vaʻaia
• Maua le igoa o le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale ma le numera DOT
• Aua le tuʻuina atu faʻamatalaga i tagata faʻapipiʻi
• Vili le Atuati911 vave mo le fesoasoani faʻatonutonu

E fia le taimi e tatau ona ou faia se faamasinoga pe a uma ona faʻalavelave a le taavale i Amerika Samoa?

O le tulafono o le taimi i Amerika Samoa e masani lava o le 2 tausaga mai le aso o le faʻalavelave. E iai foʻi ni avanoa ma tulafono puʻupuʻu mo talosaga i luma o malo. E tatau ona e faʻaauau ma le fesili i se atamai vave e puipuia ai au aia tatau.

E mafai ona ou maua le faʻamalologa pe a ou leai se tasi o le leai i le faʻalavelave?

Ioe. O Amerika Samoa e faʻaaoga ai se faiga faʻalavelave faʻapitoa. E mafai ona e maua le faʻamalologa pe a le o oe i le sili atu i le 50% o le leai. O lau faʻamalologa o le faʻamalologa e faʻaitiitia e lau tasi o le leai. E ui lava, afai e iloa e le komiti o oe e 20% o le leai, e mafai ona e maua le 80% o au faʻamalieina.

O le a mea pe a le tagata faʻatutuina o se tagata faigaluega faigaluega?

E ui lava e leai se tagata faʻatutuina o se tagata faigaluega faigaluega, e mafai ona leai foʻi le tagata faʻatutuina ma le kamupani e faʻaogaina. Matou te suʻesuʻeina uma malosi ma polokalama faʻapipiʻi e faʻamaonia ai oe e maua ai le faʻamalologa mai tagata uma e leai.

E fia le tau o lou tulaga o le faʻalavelave o le taavale i Amerika Samoa?

O tau o tulaga e faʻavae i ni faʻamatalaga tele:

• Le lelei o au faʻaleagaina
• Tupe faʻamalolo (i le taimi nei ma i le lumanaʻi)
• Le leiloa o le totogi ma le malosi e maua ai
• Le tiga ma le faʻalavelave
• Le leai o le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale
• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi e maua ai

O kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e iai ni polokalama faʻapipiʻi e sili atu nai lo polokalama faʻatau autu, e mafai ai ona maua ai ni faʻamalieina tele. Ua matou vaʻaia ni tulaga e tusa ma le miliona tala.

O le a mea pe a le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e faʻavae i tua atu o Amerika Samoa?

O tulafono FMCSA e aʻafia uma faiga faʻatutuina taavale faʻatau i Amerika Samoa, e aunoa ma le mea e faʻavae ai le kamupani. E mafai ona matou suʻe talosaga i luma o kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e faʻavae i tua atu ma kamupani faʻapipiʻi.

E fia le taimi e tatau ona uma ai lou tulaga?

E eseese le taimi:

• Tulaga faigofie ma le malamalama le leai: 6-12 masina
• Tulaga faigata ma le tele o tagata: 1-3 tausaga
• Tulaga e alu i le faamasinoga: 2-4 tausaga

Matou te galulue e faʻamalolo tulaga e vave e ui lava e faʻaitiitia ai le faʻamalologa.

E alu i le faamasinoga lou tulaga?

O le tele o tulaga e faʻasalalau i le taimi muamua, ae matou te faʻaauau pea ona faʻaauau ma le faʻasalaga pe a manaʻomia. O kamupani faʻapipiʻi e iloa ai ni atamai e mafai ona alu i le faamasinoga – ma latou te tuʻuina atu ni faʻamalieina sili atu i komepiuta ma atamai e faʻasaʻo le faamasinoga.

O le a mea pe a tuʻuina mai e le kamupani faʻapipiʻi o le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale se faʻamalologa vave?

O faʻamalologa vave e faia e faʻaitiitia ai le tau o lou tulaga i tua atu o le mea e te iloa ai le tele o au faʻaleagaina. Aua neʻi talia se faʻasalaga e aunoa ma le fesili i se atamai faʻatutuina taavale faʻapitoa muamua.

E fia le polokalama faʻapipiʻi e iai ai kamupani faʻatutuina taavale i Amerika Samoa?

O tulafono faʻapitoa e manaʻomia ai le tele o le polokalama faʻapipiʻi:

• $750,000 mo mea faʻatau e le faʻaleagaina
• $1,000,000 mo le uila, mea faigaluega tele
• $5,000,000 mo mea faigaluega faʻaleagaina

E tele kamupani e iai le $1-5 miliona poʻo le sili atu i le faʻapipiʻi.

O le a mea pe a ou leai ni polokalama faʻamalolo?

Matou te fesoasoani ia te oe e maua ai le togafitiga e te manaʻomia. E tele fomaʻi i Amerika Samoa e fesoasoani i tagata faʻaumatia i luga o se faʻatau, o lona uiga o latou te maua ai le totogi mai lou faʻamalologa. Matou te galulue ma tagata fomaʻi e malamalama i lenei faiga.

E mafai ona ou totogiina se atamai mo lou tulaga o le faʻalavelave o le taavale i Amerika Samoa?

Ioe. Matou te galulue i luga o se faʻatau – e te le totogi se mea pe a leai ni mauaina i lou tulaga. Matou te faʻaopopo uma tupe o le suʻesuʻeina ma le faʻasalaga. Pe a maua, o la matou totogi mai le mauaina, e le o mai lau pusa.

O le a mea pe a tupu le faʻalavelave i se auala a le malo poʻo se taavale a le malo?

O talosaga i luma o malo e iai ni faiga faapitoa ma tulafono puʻupuʻu. E tatau ona e faia ni mea vave pe a aʻafia ai se taavale a le malo poʻo auala i lou faʻalavelave.

Pe faʻafefea ona ou faʻamaonia le tagata faʻatutuina e faʻamalologa?

Matou te faʻaaogaina ni auala eseese e faʻamaonia ai le faʻamalologa:

• Faʻamatalaga ELD e faʻaalia ai le faʻaleagaina o itula o auaunaga
• Faʻamaumauga o le faʻamaoniga e faʻaalia ai faʻamaoniga e le atoatoa
• Faʻamaumauga o le telefoni feaveaʻi e faʻaalia ai faʻamatalaga i le po
• Faʻamatalaga a tagata vaʻaia e uiga i le amio a le tagata faʻatutuina
• Suʻesuʻega a le atamai i le faʻalavelave

O le a mea pe a faʻaalia ai le faʻamatalaga o le faʻamau puʻe o le taavale e faʻaalia ai le tagata faʻatutuina e faʻatutuina vave?

O faʻamatalaga ECM/black box o se faʻamatalaga faʻapitoa e mafai ona faʻamaonia ai le faʻatutuina vave, le faʻamalologa le lelei, ma isi faʻaleagaina. O lenei faʻamatalaga e mafai ona faʻapena mo le faʻamaonia o le leai ma le mauaina o le faʻamalologa sili atu.

E mafai ona ou maua ni tupe faʻasalaga i lou tulaga o le faʻalavelave o le taavale i Amerika Samoa?

E mafai ona maua ni tupe faʻasalaga pe a faia e le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale poʻo le tagata faʻatutuina:

• Le lelei faigata
• Amio le lelei faʻapitoa
• Le malamalama i le saogalemu
• Le lelei e iloa (faʻaalia ai tusitusiga faʻapitoa, tapeina ai faʻamatalaga)
• Le lelei (faʻaalia ai faʻamatalaga faʻapitoa)

O le a mea pe a paʻu le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale?

Matou te suʻesuʻeina uma polokalama faʻapipiʻi e maua ai, e aofia ai:

• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi o le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale
• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi o le faʻalavelave
• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi o mea faʻatau
• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi o le tagata faʻatutuina
• Polokalama faʻapipiʻi faʻapitoa

E ui lava e paʻu le kamupani, e mafai ona iai foʻi polokalama faʻapipiʻi e maua ai.

Pe faʻafefea ona fuafua le tupe faʻamalolo i le lumanaʻi?

Matou te galulue ma tagata fomaʻi ma tagata faʻapitoa e:

• Fuafua au mea faʻamalolo i le lumanaʻi
• Fuafua le tau o togafitiga i le lumanaʻi
• Fuafua le tau o lenei tau
• Aofia ai le tau o le faʻamamafa pe a manaʻomia le togafitiga faapitoa i tua atu o le motu

O le a le leiloa o le faʻaaloalo?

O le leiloa o le faʻaaloalo e faʻamaloloina ai lau toeaʻi mo le leiloa o:

• Soaʻalofa
• Alofa
• Soaʻi
• Auaunaga o le aiga
• Lagona faʻalavelave

O le a mea pe a oti lou uo i se faʻalavelave o le taavale i Amerika Samoa?

E mafai ona faia e Amerika Samoa ni talosaga le oti le faʻamalosia e tagata aiga ola. E mafai ona e maua:

• Le leiloa o le totogi i le lumanaʻi
• Le leiloa o le soaʻalofa ma le fesoasoani
• Le tiga faʻaleagaga
• Tupe faʻamalolo
• Tupe faʻasalaga pe a faʻaalia le leai faigata

Vili le Atuati911 I Le Aso Nei

Afai o oe po o se uo e uiga i se faʻalavelave a le 18-wheeler i Amerika Samoa, aua neʻi faʻalavelave. E tapeina vave le faʻamatalaga faapitoa nei. O le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e iai ni auala faʻafuaseʻi e galulue e puipuia ai a latou aia tatau. E manaʻomia se atamai e galulue e faigofie lava e pei o latou.

Vili le Atuati911 nei i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fesili faʻapitoa, faʻamaoni. O loʻo matou failautusi faʻalavelave o taavale i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona fesoasoani ia te oe i le 24/7. Matou te galulue i luga o se faʻatau – e te le totogi se mea pe a leai ni mauaina i lou tulaga.

Manatua: O itula uma e masani. Vili matou nei i le 1-888-ATTY-911 i le vave lava atu e te le tapeina le faʻamatalaga i lou tulaga.

“I le Atuati911, matou te malamalama i faʻafitauli faapitoa o faʻalavelave o taavale i Amerika Samoa. O loʻo iai la matou iloa faapitoa, aʻoaʻoga o le faamasinoga faʻapitoa, ma le malamalama i totonu e taua mo le faʻatau mo le faʻamalologa sili ona lelei e te aʻoaʻoina. E le o matou lava ia atamai – o matou o au uō, ma matou te faʻaaloalo ia te oe e pei o se aiga. Vili matou nei i le 1-888-ATTY-911.”

O loʻo iai la matou pulega failautusi, Ralph Manginello, ma le sili atu nai lo le 25 tausaga o le aʻoaʻoga e taua i kamupani faʻatutuina taavale. O loʻo iai foʻi la matou failautusi, Lupe Peña, ma le malamalama i totonu mai ana tausaga o le galulue mo kamupani puipuia faʻapipiʻi. Faʻatasi, matou te iai le aʻoaʻoga ma malosi e suʻeina uma tulaga faigata o taavale i Amerika Samoa.

Aua neʻi faia e le kamupani faʻatutuina taavale e faʻaleagaina oe. Vili le Atuati911 nei i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo lau fesili faʻapitoa. O loʻo matou iinei e fesoasoani.

ENGLISH

18-Wheeler Accidents in American Samoa: Your Legal Emergency Guide

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in American Samoa, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens can feel insurmountable. At Attorney911, we understand the unique aspects of trucking accidents in our Pacific territory, and we’re here to help you navigate this difficult time.

Understanding 18-Wheeler Accidents in American Samoa

American Samoa’s roadways present unique challenges for commercial trucking operations. While we don’t have the interstate highway system found in the continental United States, our territory has critical transportation corridors that serve our ports, airports, and distribution centers. The main routes include:

• Pago Pago to Tafuna: This primary roadway connects our capital to the international airport and industrial areas, handling significant truck traffic
• Port of Pago Pago access roads: Where container trucks transport goods from our port facilities
• American Samoa Highway 001 (AS001): The main circumferential road around Tutuila Island
• Secondary roads serving our villages: Where trucks deliver essential supplies to communities

The unique geography of our islands creates specific hazards for trucking operations. Steep grades, narrow roads, and frequent rainfall can make driving conditions particularly treacherous for large commercial vehicles. Additionally, our tropical climate can accelerate wear and tear on truck components, increasing the risk of mechanical failures.

Why American Samoa Trucking Accidents Are Different

Trucking accidents in American Samoa present unique legal and practical considerations:

1. Limited Emergency Response: Our remote island location means emergency medical services may take longer to reach accident scenes, potentially worsening injuries.

2. Port-Related Trucking: Much of our commercial trucking revolves around the Port of Pago Pago, creating concentrated truck traffic in specific areas.

3. Cultural Considerations: Our close-knit island community means accidents often affect multiple families and have broader social impacts.

4. Limited Repair Facilities: Truck maintenance and repair capabilities are more limited in American Samoa, potentially leading to deferred maintenance issues.

5. Unique Cargo: Our trucks often transport specialized cargo for our islands, including fresh fish, canned tuna products, and imported goods.

6. Tourism Impact: Accidents involving tour buses or trucks servicing the tourism industry may have additional legal complexities.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in American Samoa

While the fundamental causes of trucking accidents are similar worldwide, certain factors are particularly relevant to American Samoa:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Many truck drivers in American Samoa work long hours to meet delivery schedules, especially for time-sensitive cargo like fresh fish. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations apply to interstate trucking operations in American Samoa:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Requirement: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Violations of these regulations are common in American Samoa due to pressure to meet delivery deadlines and limited driver availability.

Improper Cargo Securement

Our islands’ unique cargo types require specialized securement techniques:

• Fresh fish and seafood: Requires refrigeration and careful loading to prevent spoilage and shifting
• Canned tuna: Heavy cargo that must be properly secured to prevent shifting
• Imported goods: Often transported in containers that must be properly secured to trailers

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transport, causing rollover accidents or spills that endanger other motorists.

Mechanical Failures

The tropical climate and salt air in American Samoa accelerate corrosion and wear on truck components:

• Brake failures: Common due to corrosion and deferred maintenance
• Tire blowouts: Heat and road conditions increase blowout risk
• Steering system failures: Corrosion can affect critical components
• Lighting failures: Salt air corrodes electrical connections

Challenging Road Conditions

American Samoa’s roads present unique challenges for truck drivers:

• Steep grades: Particularly on routes to higher elevations
• Narrow roads: Many of our roads were not designed for large commercial vehicles
• Sharp curves: Especially on mountain roads
• Frequent rainfall: Creates slippery conditions and poor visibility
• Limited shoulders: Reduces space for emergency maneuvers

Driver Inexperience

Many truck drivers in American Samoa may have less experience with:

• Mountain driving techniques
• Proper cargo securement for our unique cargo types
• Emergency procedures for our remote island conditions

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents Common in American Samoa

Rollovers on Mountain Roads

The steep grades and sharp curves on our mountain roads create significant rollover risks for trucks, especially when:

• Speeding on curves
• Improperly loaded cargo shifts
• Brakes fail on long descents
• Tires blow out on uneven surfaces

Rollover accidents on our narrow mountain roads can block traffic for hours and cause catastrophic injuries to other motorists.

Port-Related Accidents

The Port of Pago Pago is the lifeline of our islands, but it also creates concentrated truck traffic in specific areas:

• Intersection collisions: Trucks entering/exiting port facilities
• Underride accidents: When smaller vehicles are caught under trailers
• Cargo spills: When improperly secured containers or loads fall onto roadways
• Pedestrian accidents: In busy port areas with foot traffic

Rear-End Collisions

Common on our main roads where trucks must frequently stop for:

• Village traffic
• Pedestrians
• Animals on roadways
• Road construction

Trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles, especially on wet roads.

Wide Turn Accidents

Our narrow roads make wide turns particularly dangerous:

• Trucks swinging wide to make turns in tight spaces
• Other vehicles attempting to pass on the right
• Limited visibility due to our tropical vegetation
• Pedestrians and cyclists caught in blind spots

Cargo Spill Accidents

Unique to American Samoa due to our specialized cargo:

• Fresh fish spilling onto roadways
• Canned tuna products creating road hazards
• Imported goods falling from trucks
• Hazardous materials spills

Catastrophic Injuries from American Samoa Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents in American Samoa often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is common in trucking accidents due to the extreme forces involved. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory problems and confusion
• Mood changes and personality shifts
• Cognitive impairment
• Loss of consciousness

In American Samoa, access to advanced neurological care may be limited, requiring medical evacuation to Hawaii or the continental U.S. for treatment.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries can result in:

• Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Incomplete injuries with partial function
• Complete injuries with total loss of function

Our island geography can make mobility particularly challenging for those with spinal cord injuries.

Amputations

Crushing injuries from truck accidents may result in:

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Multiple limb amputations

Access to prosthetic services in American Samoa is limited, requiring travel for advanced care.

Severe Burns

Burn injuries can occur from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Electrical system fires
• Chemical burns from cargo spills
• Friction burns from road contact

Our limited burn treatment facilities may require medical evacuation for serious burns.

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Wrongful Death

Tragically, many trucking accidents in American Samoa result in fatalities. Wrongful death claims may be brought by:

• Surviving spouses
• Children of the deceased
• Parents of unmarried children
• Other dependents

Who Is Liable in American Samoa 18-Wheeler Accidents?

Multiple parties may share liability for your injuries:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, GPS, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held liable through:

• Vicarious liability: For the driver’s negligent acts within the scope of employment
• Negligent hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
• Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own and arrange shipment of cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carriers to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo characteristics

Loading Companies

Third-party companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in truck systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may share liability for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Critical Evidence in American Samoa Trucking Cases

Preserving evidence is particularly crucial in American Samoa due to our remote location and limited investigative resources:

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes
• ELD Records: Prove hours of service compliance or violations
• GPS Data: Shows route, speed, and location history
• Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage: May show the accident sequence

CRITICAL: This data can be overwritten or deleted quickly. We send preservation letters immediately to protect this evidence.

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, medical certification
• Driving Record: History of violations and accidents
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
• Training Records: Safety and operational training
• Performance Reviews: Supervisory evaluations

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance and Repair Records: Show deferred maintenance and known issues
• Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, and annual inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders: Previous violations and repairs
• Tire Records: Replacement history and tread depth
• Brake Inspection Records: Adjustment and replacement history

Company Records

• Hours of Service Records: For 6 months prior to accident
• Dispatch Logs: Trip records and communications
• Bills of Lading: Cargo documentation
• Safety Policies: Company safety procedures
• Training Curricula: Driver training materials
• Previous Accident History: Company safety record

Physical Evidence

• The Truck and Trailer: Must be preserved for inspection
• Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts
• Cargo and Securement Devices: Load configuration and tiedowns
• Accident Scene: Photos, measurements, skid marks

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In American Samoa, evidence disappears even faster than in the continental U.S. due to our limited resources and remote location. Our 48-hour protocol includes:

1. Immediate Spoliation Letters: Sent to all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence
2. ECM/Black Box Download: Secured before data can be overwritten
3. ELD Data Preservation: Electronic logging device records protected
4. Dashcam Footage: Secured from all available cameras
5. Scene Documentation: Photos and measurements before evidence is lost
6. Witness Interviews: Conducted while memories are fresh
7. Vehicle Inspection: Before repairs or disposal
8. Cargo Documentation: Bills of lading and securement records preserved

FMCSA Regulations and American Samoa Trucking

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations apply to commercial trucking operations in American Samoa. Key regulations include:

Part 390: General Applicability

• Defines who must comply with federal regulations
• Applies to all commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce
• Establishes basic definitions and requirements

Part 391: Driver Qualification

• Establishes minimum driver qualifications
• Requires motor carriers to maintain Driver Qualification Files
• Sets medical certification requirements

Part 392: Driving Rules

• Prohibits fatigued or ill drivers from operating CMVs
• Regulates drug and alcohol use
• Establishes speed limits and following distances
• Prohibits mobile phone use while driving

Part 393: Vehicle Safety

• Establishes equipment requirements
• Sets cargo securement standards
• Regulates brake systems, lighting, and other safety equipment

Part 395: Hours of Service

• Limits driving time to prevent fatigue
• Requires 30-minute breaks
• Establishes weekly driving limits
• Mandates electronic logging devices (ELDs)

Part 396: Inspection and Maintenance

• Requires systematic vehicle inspections
• Establishes maintenance record requirements
• Sets driver inspection responsibilities

How American Samoa’s Legal System Affects Your Case

American Samoa has a unique legal system that combines elements of U.S. federal law with local Samoan customary law:

Statute of Limitations

American Samoa follows the federal statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which is generally 2 years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions and shorter deadlines for claims against government entities.

Comparative Negligence

American Samoa follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Damage Caps

American Samoa does not have specific damage caps for personal injury cases. This means juries have more discretion in awarding compensation for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages.

Jury Trials

Jury trials are available in American Samoa for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. Our local juries understand the unique challenges of our island community.

Government Claims

Claims against government entities in American Samoa have special procedures and shorter deadlines. It’s crucial to act quickly if a government vehicle or road condition contributed to your accident.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in American Samoa

If you’re involved in a trucking accident in American Samoa:

1. Call 911 immediately: Report the accident and request emergency assistance
2. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated
3. Document the scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Your injuries
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Traffic signs and signals
4. Collect information:
   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Do NOT give statements: Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
6. Contact an attorney immediately: Critical evidence can disappear quickly in American Samoa

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your American Samoa Trucking Case

At Attorney911, we offer unique advantages for trucking accident victims in American Samoa:

Local Knowledge

We understand the unique aspects of trucking in American Samoa, including:

• Our port operations and related truck traffic
• Mountain road driving challenges
• Local emergency response capabilities
• Cultural considerations in our close-knit community
• Limited medical and repair resources

Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the capability to handle complex federal trucking cases that may arise from American Samoa’s interstate commerce.

Insurance Defense Insider

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate and minimize claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Proven Track Record

We have recovered $50+ million for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements in trucking cases. Our results include:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury case
• $3.8+ million for an amputation case
• $2.5+ million for a trucking accident recovery
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Approach

We handle every aspect of your case:

• Immediate evidence preservation
• Thorough investigation of all liable parties
• Coordination with medical providers
• Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
• Trial preparation and litigation if necessary

Contingency Fee Representation

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you can focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Samoa Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in American Samoa?

After ensuring your safety and calling for emergency assistance:

• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries
• Document the scene with photos and videos
• Collect contact information from the driver and witnesses
• Get the trucking company name and DOT number
• Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters
• Contact Attorney911 immediately for legal guidance

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in American Samoa?

The statute of limitations in American Samoa is generally 2 years from the date of the accident. However, shorter deadlines may apply for claims against government entities. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes. American Samoa follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

How much is my American Samoa trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, allowing for larger recoveries. We’ve seen cases range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.

What if the trucking company is based outside American Samoa?

FMCSA regulations apply to all commercial trucking operations in American Samoa, regardless of where the company is based. We can pursue claims against out-of-territory trucking companies and their insurers.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

What if the trucking company’s insurance offers a quick settlement?

Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry in American Samoa?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical care you need. Many doctors in American Samoa will treat accident victims on a lien basis, meaning they’ll get paid from your settlement. We work with medical providers who understand this process.

Can I afford an attorney for my American Samoa trucking accident case?

Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

What if the accident happened on a government road or involved a government vehicle?

Claims against government entities have special procedures and shorter deadlines. It’s crucial to act quickly if a government vehicle or road condition contributed to your accident.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We use multiple methods to prove fatigue:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness testimony about driver behavior
• Expert analysis of the accident sequence

What if the truck’s black box data shows the driver was speeding?

ECM/black box data is objective evidence that can prove speeding, improper braking, and other violations. This data can be crucial in establishing liability and securing maximum compensation.

Can I get punitive damages in my American Samoa trucking case?

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all available insurance coverage, including:

• The motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

Even if the company goes bankrupt, insurance coverage may still be available.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical and economic experts to:

• Project your future medical needs
• Calculate the cost of future care
• Determine the present value of those costs
• Include costs of medical evacuation if specialized care is needed off-island

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium compensates your spouse for the loss of:

• Companionship
• Affection
• Sexual relations
• Household services
• Emotional support

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in American Samoa?

American Samoa allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in American Samoa, don’t wait. Critical evidence is disappearing right now. The trucking company has rapid-response teams working to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. Our American Samoa trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to help you. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Remember: Every hour counts. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 before the evidence in your case disappears.

“At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges of trucking accidents in American Samoa. Our team has the local knowledge, federal court experience, and insider advantage to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. We’re not just attorneys – we’re your neighbors, and we’ll treat you like family. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911.”

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings insider knowledge from his years working in insurance defense. Together, we have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex trucking cases in American Samoa.

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We’re here to help.

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