Colorado roads are a conduit for transporting goods throughout the state and neighboring states. Trucks are a common sight here. However, truck driver fatigue is a growing concern, with so many packages being delivered every day from the explosive demands of e-commerce. If you are injured in a truck accident involving driver fatigue, you need the assistance of Dulin McQuinn Young. An experienced truck accident attorney can review your case and explain your legal options.
Why Do Truck Drivers Get Fatigued?
Several factors contribute to the issue of driver fatigue, including:
- Lack of sleep – Truck drivers often drive at night and sleep during the day when there is more noise and light. They may even sleep in their trucks. However, these conditions can make it difficult to get decent sleep.
- Health problems – Due to the sedentary nature of the job, many truck drivers develop chronic health issues that can affect their sleep, such as sleep apnea.
- Nighttime driving – Truck drivers sometimes drive more hours at night because of less traffic. However, people naturally get more tired at night.
- Driver shortage – A years-long driver shortage means that fewer drivers must complete the work, often pushing them to work beyond their physical capabilities.
Dangers of Fatigued Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 13% of commercial motor vehicles were fatigued at the time of an accident. Driver fatigue poses many risks that can increase the possibility of a wreck, including increased drowsiness, a greater likelihood of falling asleep behind the wheel, lowered reaction times, and impaired decision-making skills. The Sleep Foundation explains that drowsy driving mimics many of the effects of drunk driving.
Hours of Service Rules
Recognizing truck driver fatigue is a major issue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has passed hours-of-service rules limiting driving hours and mandating breaks. Under these rules, a property-carrying truck driver can only drive 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty, cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, and must take a 30-minute break after driving 8 hours. Drivers are also limited to driving after 60 hours in a 7-day workweek or 70 hours in an 8-day workweek. They must take at least 34 consecutive hours off duty to restart a workweek.
Who Is Responsible for Truck Accidents Due to Driver Fatigue?
Truck drivers are responsible for complying with the hours of service rules and not operating a commercial vehicle beyond their physical limitations. However, trucking companies may also be responsible for these violations. First, trucking companies can be held legally liable for their truck drivers’ negligent actions. Second, trucking companies may impose tight schedules that make it unrealistic to complete the delivery without violating the hours of service rules.
Contact Our Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you were injured because of driver fatigue, a Denver personal injury lawyer from Dulin McQuinn Young can discuss your situation during a free case review. Call us at (303) 246-1111 to learn more.