Accidents Caused by Truck Driver Fatigue in Pennsylvania

Seek Experienced Legal Representation from Our Schuylkill Truck Accident Attorney

If you suffered an injury in a truck accident caused by a fatigued trucker, you may be eligible to recover financial compensation with the experienced legal help of a qualified attorney. At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C. we are committed to helping you obtain the monetary damages necessary to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, as well as pain and suffering. With more than 60 years of experience, our Schuylkill tired truck driver accident lawyers understand what it takes to maximize your entitled compensation.

If you've been injured in a truck accident caused by driver fatigue, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced Schuylkill County attorneys are here to help. Call tel:(888) 268-0023 for a free consultation today!

Federal Hours-of-Service Rules

Truck driver fatigue is considered to be one of the most common causes of truck accidents in the United States. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations, limiting the number of hours driven on the road to reduce the chances of an accident, which all trucking companies and their drivers must follow. Furthermore, trucking companies and their drivers are required to keep track of their hours via electronic on-board recorders or log books.

Federal hours-of-service rules include:

• Commercial drivers are allowed to work a maximum 14 hours a day
• Commercial drivers are allowed to drive up to 11 hours in a 14-hour work day
• Commercial drivers must take a 30-minute break at some point after the first seven hours of a shift
• Commercial drivers can drive up to 70 hours a week
• Commercial drivers can take 24 hours of rest to continue working after working a whole week

Impact of Truck Driver Fatigue on Road Safety

Truck driver fatigue is a serious issue that impacts road safety across the country. When truck drivers are fatigued, their ability to operate the vehicle safely is significantly impaired. Fatigue affects:

• Reaction times: Tired drivers have slower reflexes, which can delay their response to sudden changes in the road or traffic conditions.
• Focus: Fatigue makes it harder for drivers to stay focused on the road, increasing the chances of missing critical signs or hazards.
• Decision-making: A fatigued driver may struggle to make the right decisions, such as when to stop or change lanes, which can lead to dangerous situations.

Fatigue-related accidents are often compared to other common causes of truck crashes, such as distracted driving or speeding. While distracted driving (e.g., texting or using a phone) and speeding are major factors in truck accidents, fatigue can be just as dangerous. In some cases, fatigue may even exacerbate the effects of distraction or speeding, leading to more severe accidents.

Statistics on Truck Accidents Due to Fatigue

• Nationwide statistics: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatigue is a factor in approximately 13% of all large truck accidents.
• In Pennsylvania: The state sees hundreds of truck accidents annually, many of which are linked to driver fatigue. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial trucks.

Signs of Truck Driver Fatigue to Look Out For

There are several signs that a truck driver may be fatigued, which can indicate an increased risk of accidents:

• Swerving or drifting: Fatigued drivers may unintentionally drift out of their lane or swerve across lanes.
• Erratic driving: This includes inconsistent speeds or sudden, jerky movements of the truck.
• Delayed reaction times: A fatigued driver may take too long to respond to traffic signals, changes in the road, or other vehicles.
• Yawning or head nodding: Frequent yawning or the driver’s head drooping are clear signs of fatigue.

These signs can lead to dangerous situations, as fatigue impairs the driver’s judgment and ability to react in time.

Penalties for Violating Hours-of-Service Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict hours-of-service regulations designed to prevent driver fatigue. When these rules are violated, both truck drivers and trucking companies can face penalties, including:

• Fines: Truck drivers and companies may be fined for exceeding driving limits or failing to log hours correctly.
• Suspension or revocation of licenses: Repeated violations could lead to suspension or loss of the driver’s commercial license.
• Legal consequences: Violating these regulations can impact personal injury claims, as it may strengthen a victim’s case against the negligent driver or trucking company.

The Role of Trucking Companies in Preventing Fatigue

Trucking companies play a crucial role in preventing fatigue-related accidents. Their responsibilities include:

• Enforcing rest periods: Companies are legally obligated to ensure their drivers are following rest and sleep regulations.
• Setting realistic schedules: Companies should avoid pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines that could encourage unsafe driving.
• Monitoring driver hours: Trucking companies must track driver hours and enforce compliance with federal regulations to prevent fatigue.

When trucking companies fail to meet these obligations, they can be held liable for accidents caused by driver fatigue. Ensuring safe driving practices is not only the driver’s responsibility but also the company’s duty.

Call (888) 268-0023 to Schedule a Consultation Today

Our Schuylkill County tired trucker accidents attorneys know that truck drivers are pressured to meet strict deadlines, sacrificing required rest and sleep in order to get the job done. We can investigate your accident, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and protect your best interests in order to get the results you deserve.

Contact us by calling tel:(888) 268-0023 and discuss your legal options immediately.