Driver Fatigue As A Factor In Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are serious, and they can cause significant damage, injuries, or fatalities. A large number of truck accidents can be attributed to driver fatigue. Driver fatigue is a prevalent factor in accidents involving commercial vehicles because drivers often push themselves to the limits in an attempt to earn more.
If you suspect that the driver’s fatigue caused the accident, you might want to speak with a lawyer at Cameron Law. Our Las Vegas truck accident lawyer can help you investigate what caused the accident and determine whether driver fatigue was a factor.
What Is Truck Driver Fatigue?
Driver fatigue is a state of physical and mental exhaustion caused by long hours of work, lack of sleep, or bodily fatigue. When a driver is fatigued, their reaction time, attention, and overall performance may decrease, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
Fact: Statistics provided by the National Transportation Safety Board showed that driver fatigue is a contributing factor in an estimated 30 to 40 percent of truck accidents.
Causes of Driver Fatigue
There are several causes of truck driver fatigue, including:
- Long hours of driving without breaks
- Tight schedules or unrealistic deadlines
- Lack of sleep or sleep disorders
- Alcohol or drug use
- Monotonous routes or scenery
- Poor health or diet
It is crucial to identify the cause of driver fatigue to prevent it from happening or to prove it in case of an accident.
How to Prove Truck Driver Fatigue?
Proving truck driver fatigue can be a challenging task, but it is important to hold responsible parties accountable. Here are some evidence and documentation that can help you prove driver fatigue:
- The driver’s logbook or electronic logging device (ELD) records to show the number of driving hours and rest breaks
- Witness statements or accident reports that indicate the driver’s behavior or fatigue symptoms
- Medical records of the driver’s sleep disorders or health issues
- The trucking company’s policies and procedures regarding driver safety, rest breaks, or schedules
- Cell phone records or dash cam footage that show the driver’s activities before the accident
You might want to get help from an experienced truck accident lawyer when gathering evidence of truck driver fatigue.
Who Is Responsible if a Truck Accident Is Caused by the Driver’s Fatigue?
In most cases, the trucking company is responsible for ensuring the driver’s safety and adhering to federal regulations regarding driver fatigue. If the driver is an employee, the employer may be liable for their actions or negligence.
Depending on the circumstances, other parties may also be held liable. It is best to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer to determine the responsible parties and pursue compensation for damages and injuries.
Holding responsible parties accountable may not only help you recover financially but also prevent future accidents and promote driver safety.
Contact Cameron Law to Discuss Your Case
Driver fatigue is a significant factor in many truck accidents. If you suspect driver fatigue in your truck accident, contact our skilled lawyer at Cameron Law to help you build a strong case and pursue compensation. Schedule a free case evaluation with our lawyer at Cameron Law by calling 702-745-4545.
Source:
ntsb.gov/safety/safety-studies/Pages/SS9502.aspx
