Commercial Truck Accidents Becoming More Common
Every year, thousands of people are injured each year due to a commercial driver. There were over 4,213 fatal commercial truck accident accidents in 2016. Fatal commercial truck accidents have risen by 28 percent over the past seven years. Because the number of fatal commercial truck accidents is increasing, many people believe that the trucking industry should do more to prevent accidents. Driver fatigue is one of the main causes of truck accidents. The trucking company can be held responsible for this when you retain the services of an experienced commercial truck accident attorney, who understand the complexities of these types of cases. If you or a loved one was involved in a commercial truck accident, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney before making any decisions regarding your accident, settlement or discussions with the trucking company’s insurance provider.
Why Driver Fatigue is Such a Big Concern
Drowsy driving is a crisis in the United States. It is estimated that 40,000 people are injured each year due to a drowsy driver. Eight hundred people were killed in 2015 due to a drowsy driver. Commercial truck drivers have to work long hours and are under a lot of pressure to meet deadlines. That is why truck drivers often drive while they are drowsy.
There have been laws that have been put in place to prevent drivers from being on the road for more than 11 hours at a time. However, these laws are often violated because there are tight deadlines that have to be met. Driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving while drunk.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that driving while drowsy is the equivalent of driving with a BAC of 0.05. Delayed reaction time, blurred vision and loss of motor functions are some of the effects of drowsy driving.
What are Some of the Other Things That Can Cause Driver Fatigue?
- Drug and Alcohol Use
Certain drugs and alcohol can cause fatigue. It is important to note that illicit drugs are not the only ones that can cause fatigue. Certain prescription drugs, such as antidepressants, can cause one to feel tired. Some Commercial Truck Drives use cocaine to stay awake for long periods of time. - Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can cause daytime drowsiness. A lack of sleep can make it extremely difficult for one to stay alert while on the road.
Proving the Accident Was Caused by a Fatigued Driver
You will need to show evidence that the accident was caused by a fatigued driver. That is why you will need the help of a truck accident attorney. An attorney can help you put together the evidence that you need to prove that a fatigued driver caused the accident.
There are several ways that your truck accident attorney can prove that the accident was caused by a fatigued driver. For example, when a driver falls asleep, their car typically drifts to the center line or a median. There probably will not be any skid marks on the road because the person did not try to brake.
Furthermore, most commercial trucks today have a black box that records everything that goes on inside of the truck. The recorder may freeze a few moments before the accident occurs.
How an Attorney can Help Your Case
If you or someone you love has been hurt by a fatigued commercial truck driver, then you will need the help of an attorney. Your attorney can make sure that you may receive compensation for the suffering and pain that you have endured. You may need to take some time to heal after the accident, which means lost wages and possible long term or permanent injury preventing you from performing your job or enjoying life’s activities. This is why it is vitally important for you to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one was involved in a commercial truck accident in Texas, call our law offices today at any of our convenient locations and get a free consultation.
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