TRUCK Driver
Fatigue

The True Dangers Of Fatigued Driving

Drowsy driving is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors; some studies have shown that driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Fatigued driving leads to slower reaction times, reduced ability to pay attention to the road, and lowered ability to make quick, smart decisions. All of these things can—and do—lead to serious motor vehicle accidents every year. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that, every year, tens of thousands of accidents and thousands of traffic-related deaths are the result of fatigued driving. And, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), commercial vehicle operators are some of the most likely to drive while fatigued.

Why Do Truck Drivers Continue To Drive While Fatigued?

It may seem obvious that no one, including truck drivers, should drive while drowsy. However, truck drivers often drive while fatigued due to a number of factors.

These include:

• Pressure from employers to meet deadlines
• Tight delivery schedules
• Extended periods of driving time
• Nighttime driving hours
• Use of stimulants and/or depressants (alcohol, narcotics, prescription medications, etc.)
• Monetary penalties for missing deadlines
• Traffic and weather conditions leading to delays
• Hours-of-service violations

Regardless of the reason, fatigued driving should never occur. When a truck driver drives while drowsy or falls asleep behind the wheel, the results can be disastrous—and innocent people pay the price.

Fatigued Driving Is Negligent Driving

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations regarding the number of hours a truck driver may operate his or her vehicle after coming on duty. These are known as hours-of-service (HOS) rules, and all commercial drivers are required to follow them. They are also required to document the hours they drive and their meal/rest breaks in a driver log. However, truck drivers may forge HOS logs in an attempt to cover up violations.

At Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys, we know how to look into a truck driver’s logbook to determine if he or she violated HOS regulations. We also know how to evaluate extraneous evidence to determine if pressure from the trucking company led to the driver continuing to operate his or her vehicle while fatigued. Our Savannah truck accident lawyers are prepared to use their extensive experience and skill to hold negligent truck drivers and their employers legally accountable for your damages.

Reach out to us today to learn how we can assist you with your truck accident claim; call (912) 809-5335 to get started.