A single truck accident can devastate the lives of victims and their families. When a truck driver is driving while fatigued or drowsy they may be at greater risk of causing a truck accident which is why victims should understand these dangers and the personal injury legal protections available to them.
Truck driver fatigue can lead to truck accidents
Some common causes of truck driver fatigue can include:
- Unrealistic deadlines: Oftentimes truck drivers may be pushed and feel pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines that may cause them to skip required rest breaks and not get the sleep they need.
- Working unusual shifts: Truck drivers may be on the road during odd hours when the body is naturally less aware.
- Truck driver illness: When a truck driver falls ill, it is important that they get adequate sleep, however, oftentimes this does not occur and a sick truck driver with inadequate sleep may wind up on the road.
- Medication use – medications the truck driver is taking may have sleepiness as a side effect which can increase the risk of a truck accident.
- Driving under the influence – half the truck drivers worldwide admit to driving after drinking. It is important for truck drivers not to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The impacts of truck driver fatigue can be significant and detrimental. Truck drivers and their employers may be liable for personal injury damages following a truck accident. A personal injury claim for damages may help injured truck accident victims recover compensation for their physical, financial and emotional damages caused by truck driver fatigue and truck driver negligence.