Driver Fatigue Accident Injury Lawyer
Many commercial truck drivers work long hours, especially long-haul drivers. While there are federal regulations on how many hours these drivers can be on the road, some drivers skirt these rules and do not get the rest they need to stay alert behind the wheel. Driver fatigue is a dangerous state of mind that can slow reaction times and increase the risk of deadly truck accidents. At Keith D. Leshine Attorney at Law, LLC, we are your source when you need a driver fatigue accident lawyer in Duluth, GA.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial truck drivers must limit their time on the road and get the rest needed to safely drive their vehicle. This means no more than 11 hours behind the wheel, with at least 10 hours between shifts. The 10 hours should include at least 8 hours of sleep to ensure the driver is well-rested for their next leg of the journey.
Unfortunately, many truck drivers find ways around these regulations. Either they forge their logs or do not use the ten hours off to get the sleep they need. When driver fatigue hits, drivers may be less alert and slower to respond, similar to the effects of alcohol. In severe cases, the driver may even fall asleep behind the wheel of a big rig.
Serious Truck Accident Injuries
When a truck driver is suffering from fatigue, the chances of a serious accident increase. Due to the sheer size and weight of the trucks they drive, long-haul truckers and other commercial drivers can cause catastrophic injuries to those around them on the road. Driver fatigue can result in trucks drifting into other lanes or off the pavement, as well as slow reaction times when they need to brake or maneuver around obstacles on the road. In severe cases, the truck may careen into other vehicles or cause a roll-over accident that can be deadly for the driver and anyone else on the road.
If you have been injured in a truck accident where it is believed the driver was experiencing fatigue, contact us at Keith D. Leshine Attorney at Law, LLC in Duluth, GA, to schedule your free legal consultation. Our experienced legal team can access your case and discuss your options, including filing a truck accident injury lawsuit.
