Driver Fatigue

Studies show that an overwhelming number of tractor trailer and large vehicle accidents are caused by driver fatigue. Symptoms of fatigue include involuntary eye closures, excessive yawning, feeling tired and inability to stay focused.

Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, the need for overtime and the lack of adequate rest stops have forced our nation's truck driver's to work unreasonable hours with unsatisfactory equipment, causing driver fatigue and turning our roadways into deathtraps.

In an effort to curb deadly accidents caused by driver fatigue, the US Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created new guidelines regarding truck driver's hours of services in 2003. An addendum to the existing law now allows drivers to work up to 11 hours following a period of 10 consecutive hours off-duty. Drivers may not drive after being on-duty for 60 hours in a seven-consecutive-day period or 70 hours in an eight-consecutive-day period. The cycle starts over again when a driver takes at least 34 consecutive hours off-duty.

It is important to understand that highway collisions are not always a result of a negligent driver. If you have been injured in a tractor trailer or other large vehicle accident, there are a number of parties that can be held responsible for personal injuries, loss of life or damage to personal property. Trucking companies that employ drivers with faulty equipment and unrealistic delivery schedules are just as responsible as those who are behind the wheel.

According to a recent Department of Transportation (DOT) study, almost half of the nations nearly 1500 public highway rest areas place time limits on truck drivers stops assuming the driver can even find a spot to park. This only amplifies the issue of fatigue, as it pushes truck drivers back on the roads before they are legally allowed and physically ready.

If you have been injured or have a loved one that was injured or killed in an accident involving a tractor trailer or other large truck, please contact us immediately at 800-966-4999 and see why our firm has recovered over $100 million on behalf of our clients.

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