Dangers of Fatigued Tractor-Trailer Driving
Fatigue is one of the major risk factors facing commercial vehicle drivers. The impact fatigue has on the human body is similar to intoxication. Fatigue can lead to diminished reaction time, poor decision-making, and falling asleep behind the wheel.
All drivers must pay attention when behind the wheel, but a sense of awareness is especially important for commercial drivers. These trucks are much larger than most of the vehicles on the road, and a collision could lead to devastating damage to surrounding cars and passengers. A compassionate Lancaster attorney understands the damage a tractor-trailer with a fatigued driver can do to people and property.
Federal Regulations of Work and Rest for Truck Drivers
To reduce the risk of fatigued driving among commercial truck operators, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has adopted rules and regulations that dictate the amount of time a driver can remain on the road without taking a break. These regulations require rest on both daily and weekly intervals. Knowledgeable McDonald At Law attorneys could investigate if these rules have been broken, which would signal negligence on the part of the 18-wheeler operator.
Truck drivers are prohibited from driving more than 60 hours in a seven-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period. If they reach the limit, the regulations require that they take at least 34 hours off for rest.
Exceptions for Trucks with Berths
If a truck has a berth for the driver to sleep in, they must spend eight consecutive hours resting in the berth or otherwise off-duty each day.
Compensation for a Collision with a Fatigued Truck Driver in Lancaster
When a motorist is injured in an accident with a fatigued driver, different forms of financial compensation could be available. Identifying fair compensation could be possible with a skilled lawyer at McDonald At Law who has assisted with many accidents involving fatigued tractor-trailer drivers.
Medical Expenses
The cost of medical care is a prominent issue for most people involved in fatigued truck driving accidents. From emergency medical care to long-term treatment, a personal injury claim could cover these expenses.
Lost Wages
Serious injuries frequently lead to time away from work. For many people, that means going weeks, months, or longer without a paycheck. A civil claim could help recoup those lost wages.
Property Damage
The damage to passenger vehicles that were struck by a fatigued truck driver can be significant. A personal injury case could recover the cost of repairing or replacing these vehicles.
Contact an Attorney about Your Lancaster Fatigued Truck Driving Accident Case
The injury risks involved in any commercial truck accident are significant. If you suffered bodily harm in a collision with a fatigued truck driver, you might be entitled to a monetary award.
Do not put your financial recovery at risk by handling your case on your own. Our experienced attorneys could help you hold a commercial vehicle operator accountable for your fatigued truck driving accident in Lancaster. Call McDonald At Law today.