Trucks play an integral role in transporting goods across the nation. However, it’s no secret that these vehicles can be intimidating to drive near. Unfortunately, due to their immense size and weight, accidents involving these trucks can result in serious bodily harm and even death. As such, many regulations are in place to ensure drivers are in the best shape necessary to operate these trucks. However, driver fatigue does occur, and if it’s the cause of your accident, understanding how to proceed is crucial. The following blog explores what you must know and how a Pike County, KY truck accident lawyer can help.
How Does Driver Fatigue Occur?
While many may assume sitting and driving is not as tiring as working other, more manual-intensive jobs, this can be exhaustive. Because truck drivers are sitting for long periods, the monotony can make drivers more tired than usual, especially since they are traveling by themselves.
In order to combat the effects of driver fatigue, federal laws regulate how many hours drivers can work. Drivers are prohibited from traveling more than eleven hours in one day. They must also take breaks after eight consecutive hours of driving. This helps ensure drivers are well-rested and alert when on the road.
However, these laws don’t only apply to active drivers. If a driver has worked between six and eight days, they must have, at minimum, a thirty-four-hour break before getting back on the road.
Unfortunately, many drivers are pressured by their employers to push their limits in order to ensure they meet deadlines, which means drivers are not only drowsy when driving but cut corners when it comes to safety.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
It’s important to understand who can be held liable if you are injured in an accident involving a fatigued truck driver. The most important thing to do following a trucking accident is to call emergency services to report the incident and request medical attention. These collisions can cause a litany of injuries, from broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and unfortunately, death.
If you are injured, you will likely be able to hold the driver and the company they work for liable. When the driver ignores federal regulations and logs their break time incorrectly, they can face liability for negligence. Similarly, if a logistics company forces its drivers to ignore the laws by threatening their job, the business can also be held responsible for the injuries you’ve sustained.
When hurt by negligent parties who try to bend the rules, Shane Hall, Attorney at Law, can help. Our dedicated legal firm understands the complexities of these situations. As such, we will do everything possible to assist you during these challenging times. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.
