Are the rules of the road different for drivers of large commercial trucks than for cars?

A: Yes, the drivers and operators of tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles are required to not only obey the regular rules of the road that apply to all motor vehicles but also certain special federal regulations that apply to trucking. These rules, found in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR §§350 through 399), set forth these special laws that govern any semi's and large passenger vehicles used in interstate traffic. Most states, including North Carolina, incorporate by reference most of the federal regulations that apply to 18-wheelers and other big trucks. Some of these rules involve special qualifications for CDL drivers, hours of service for drivers, and the inspection and repair of trucks. There are also special rules about drug testing and other information which must be gathered when there is a serious injury or death involving one of these big rigs.