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Common Causes of Driver Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most pressing issues facing the trucking industry, and it is a leading contributor to severe, sometimes deadly, truck accidents. In Houston, a central hub for commerce and transportation, 18-wheeler accidents are unfortunate but common. A vehicle’s large size and weight make any crash involving an 18-wheeler potentially catastrophic. When the truck driver is fatigued, it can exacerbate the crash risk, making it even more dangerous. Fatigue in long-haul truck drivers is a multifaceted issue with internal and external causes. Long shifts, tight deadlines, and insufficient rest are some of the most significant factors contributing to fatigue behind the wheel. This causes drivers to have an increased chance of being drowsy at the wheel or unable to react in time at a critical moment.
One of the leading causes of fatigue in truck drivers is the physical demands of their work. Long-haul trucking often involves being on the road for many hours at a stretch, sometimes with limited opportunities for rest. Federal regulations limit a driver’s hours in a single shift. Still, these laws are not always followed, and some trucking companies push drivers to exceed these limits to meet delivery deadlines. As a result, many drivers operate their vehicles while experiencing extreme levels of exhaustion. Another factor contributing to fatigue is the quality of sleep that drivers get. Many truckers are forced to sleep in their cabs, often in uncomfortable or unsafe environments. This, combined with irregular hours and difficulty maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, results in poor rest and a higher risk of drowsiness behind the wheel. The physical and mental toll of fatigue on truck drivers cannot be overstated. Fatigue affects drivers in similar ways to alcohol impairment. A fatigued driver may exhibit slower reflexes, have trouble focusing on the road, or even experience “micro-sleeps,” which can last only a few seconds but can be enough time to cause a severe accident. These lapses in concentration are particularly dangerous when driving an 18-wheeler, which requires heightened awareness and precision due to its size and handling characteristics.
Accidents like these have potentially life-changing consequences. Victims of trucking accidents should know their rights and fight for just compensation. We want to hear your case at The Alfred Law Firm and are prepared to tackle unique obstacles with our years of expertise. Call us today at 713-489-1875 for a free consultation.
Laws Related to Driver Fatigue in Texas
If the driver operated their vehicle beyond the federally mandated hours of service or violated company policies regarding rest, this can be used as evidence of negligence. In these cases, the truck driver and their employer may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused by the accident. There are several ways in which fatigue can contribute to a truck accident in a legal context. One standard method of proving negligence is using electronic logging devices (ELDs). These devices track a driver’s service hours and can provide evidence of whether the driver exceeded legal limits. If a driver was found to have been driving while fatigued beyond the legal limits, it strengthens the negligence case.
Trucking companies are also potentially held accountable for fostering a culture of overworking their drivers. A trucking company that pressures drivers to meet tight deadlines provides inadequate rest facilities, or fails to monitor driving hours properly may be deemed responsible for an accident caused by driver fatigue. Both the driver and the company may face legal consequences in these cases. Trucking companies must carry liability insurance, which can be used to cover damages caused by vehicle accidents. This coverage can be crucial in ensuring that victims of truck accidents are compensated. Still, it also means that trucking companies will often go to great lengths to minimize their liability. For more information on vehicle accident details and statistics, the Texas Department of Transportation has a website with resources available.
Potential Compensation for Truck Accident Injuries
Injuries involving a truck accident can be severe enough to impact someone’s life permanently. Anything from bone fractures or physical trauma can cause chronic pain that can cause years of distress in more ways than one. Unexpected medical bills or car repair charges can add up and put many in an unfavorable financial situation. Every victim should know that they can fight for their compensation. An attorney specializing in truck accidents will have the expertise to navigate the nuanced legal landscape and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Fatigue-related accidents often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and potentially other third parties. A skilled lawyer will be able to investigate all aspects of the case, including reviewing driver logs, identifying potential violations of trucking regulations, and gathering expert testimony to support your claim.
What Can I Do To Get Started?
Compensation in truck accident cases can include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The financial burden of recovering from a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially if the injuries are long-term or disabling. Legal action can help ensure you cannot bear these costs alone. At The Alfred Law Firm, we do the work. We want to help injury victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. Call us today at 713-489-1875 to schedule a free consultation, or visit our home page.
