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Even though it is not a crime to choose to drive while too tired, truck drivers are always warned not to drive when fatigued. The biggest danger of driving while being overtired tends to be the inability to react to roadway conditions such as failure to stop, failure to change lanes properly, or failure to keep a lookout. When sleep-deprived, the likelihood of accidents goes up when truckers are sleepy or tired. Tractor-trailer drivers and their parent company could be held liable in court if their negligence causes an accident.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a tractor-trailer collision due to the negligent actions of another, a Pascagoula truck driver fatigue accident lawyer could help you hold them accountable in court. They could investigate the circumstances that caused the crash, collect evidence, and speak to witnesses to help build a case. With the help of a skilled truck accident attorney, injured individuals may be eligible to recover compensation for damages such as mental anguish, pain and suffering, lost wages, and loss of enjoyment of life. Reach out to a diligent attorney to learn more about the types of damages you may be eligible to recover.
Legally, truck drivers are allowed to work no more than 60 hours on duty over seven consecutive days. Drivers may be on duty for up to 14 hours following 10 hours off duty, but they are limited to 11 hours of driving time. Tractor-trailer drivers and their employers keep track of the hours logged. Drivers are required to carry logbooks and input those into computer systems. Sometimes those systems are backed up or connected with centralized hubs. Other truck drivers do it the old-fashioned way and simply write it down.
Following a collision, a Pascagoula truck driver fatigue accident lawyer could collect evidence such as the driver logs and black box information to prove the defendant’s negligence in court.
The more a driver is fatigued or sleepy, the more likely that the driver of the truck was at fault for the accident. If the trucking company is found to be responsible, the responsibility also placed upon the driver. The driver knows the rules, knows exactly what they are capable of, and knows when they need to pull over. Many truck drivers push the limit and go over and above to make a quota or make their regular rate. Accidents between motor vehicles and tractor-trailers could cause significant damage and severe injuries. A diligent Pascagoula tractor-trailer driver fatigue accident attorney could seek compensation for damages from all parties involved including the trucking company and the driver.
Circumstances in which a truck driver might be absolved of responsibility include if they are not at fault. If they were maintaining an appropriate lane of travel, maintaining a safe speed, keeping a lookout, and did not cause the accident in question, they are absolved of any kind of liability.
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents. Often, truck drivers drive over the regulated 60 hours per week. Their negligence could cause devastating injuries and damage. The truck driver and the trucking company could be held liable for any damages following a collision.
If you have been injured due to a negligent tractor-trailer driver, you may be eligible for compensation. A knowledgeable Pascagoula truck driver fatigue accident lawyer could calculate your damages and help you hold the truck driver accountable in court. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case.