Fatigue’s Role in Truck Accidents
Commercial truck drivers spend their workday traveling great distances in order to make deliveries within a certain time frame. They utilize highways and interstate roadways, as well as backroads and other roadways to get to where they are going.
When traveling fast or slow in a commercial vehicle that can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds, it becomes difficult to come to a stop, especially in the event of an emergency. This leads to catastrophic injuries in the event of an accident and even worse, the possibility of fatal collisions. And while truck defects and improper loading are two reasons behind truck accidents, driving while fatigued is a big issue for commercial truck drivers.
Regulations in Place to Curb Fatigued Truck Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver fatigue plays a role in 35-40 percent of all truck accidents. The FMCSA has enacted regulations to help curb this negligent action. These regulations are known as Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.
HOS dictates a truck driver can drive a maximum of 11 hours in one day and a maximum of 70 hours in one week. They must rest for 34 hours following a 70-hour week. Also, truck drivers must take a 30-minute rest break within the eight hours of a driving shift.
The aforementioned regulations are only a handful of ones in place to help prevent fatigued driving, which can have serious consequences. If a truck driver nods off behind the wheel it can lead to an accident with another motorist on the road.
That motorist could end up suffering debilitating injuries or even worse — death. That is why if you or a loved one has been in an accident involving a commercial truck, you need experienced legal counsel.
Injury Lawyers Represent Victims in Pennsylvania
Driver fatigue is just one of many reasons that can lead to a truck accident. Some others include faulty equipment, traveling too fast for road conditions, distracted driving, overloaded trucks, and reckless driving. The good news is that in Pennsylvania, Berger & Lagnese, LLC, handles all types of causes of truck driver accidents.
They will not turn their back in your time of need. Their experience and determined nature will go a long way in getting you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Let Berger & Lagnese, LLC, handle the litigation while you concentrate on recovery. Just fill out the online contact form to have your case evaluated by an experienced attorney.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.