Truck Accident News

Trucker In Fiery Tanker Crash Stirs Questions On Screening

OAKLAND Tough rules enacted after Sept. 11, 2001, were designed to strictly limit who can transport hazardous materials on the nation's highways, but experts say a growing truck driver shortage and inconsistent enforcement mean people with checkered backgrounds often pass the screening process.

Trucker James Mosqueda, 51, whose gasoline-loaded tanker burned and caused the collapse of a highway overpass, cleared an FBI criminal history check and an intelligence review from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration despite criminal convictions, including felony drug and burglary arrests.

The TSA said Tuesday that a review of Mosqueda's criminal record confirmed he had a valid tanker license because his last stint in jail, for heroin possession, ended more than five years ago. But lawmakers and industry experts are questioning rules that allowed someone with his background to operate a truck loaded with more than 8,000 gallons of gasoline. ead more at democrats.assembly.ca.gov.

Contact our lawyer now If you have experienced personal injuries or substantial income loss as a result of a truck accident in Maryland. Our lawyers are here to give you a free case review and to fight for you in court.

	Did You Know?
	There Are Exceptions To The Hours-Of-Service Rules. Vehicles used in ground water well-drilling operations, utility service, and transporting construction materials and equipment retain the current 24-hour restart provision. However, these drivers are required to comply with the new 10-hour off-duty and 11-hour driving limitations, as well as the prohibition on driving after the 14th hour after coming on duty.