How Does Driver Fatigue Cause Truck Accidents?

Driver fatigue has become a serious problem in the commercial transportation industry, and while we understand that some drivers are under a lot of stress, we don’t often realize that driver fatigue is a major factor in many truck accidents. Here are some of the things we need to be aware of when it comes to truck driver fatigue.

Caring for a driver

When it comes to driving a large vehicle on public roads, you need not go far to find an accident. Besides the obvious physical dangers, trucking companies and their drivers have a duty of care to passengers and other motorists alike.

It’s no secret that the average trucker spends a lot of time on the road. The company can take measures to avoid accidents, but it’s up to the driver to keep their passengers safe and secure. Moreover, truckers are subjected to harsh weather conditions. They may not be able to adjust to such adversities as heavy rain or snow. Keeping an eye out for these unforeseen events can save lives.

Even the smallest truck on the road is a hulking beast. A small mistake, or lack of attention to detail, can cause a ruckus. While no one is perfect, it is possible to avoid a major accident.

Getting a DUI or drinking and driving while on the job is a no-no. It’s also a fact that many truckers are given the green light to hit the open road without adequate training or experience.

Sleep deprivation

Sleep deprivation is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, up to 100,000 crashes occur each year. A study by the National Transportation Safety Board found that fatigue contributed to 30-40 percent of commercial truck crashes.

As a result of the increased number of accidents, there are new regulations to reduce the amount of time that drivers can be on the road. These regulations are meant to protect the safety of both drivers and the public. However, the trucking industry has fought the rules.

Studies show that drivers who doze off while driving are just as dangerous as drunk drivers. If you’ve been in a trucking crash, don’t be afraid to contact an attorney. They may be able to help you investigate the accident.

Sleep deprivation affects both a driver’s motor skills and reaction time. A slow response time can be devastating. It can lead to accidents and even death.

Impairment of judgment

The best way to avoid truck accidents is to stay within the legal speed limit. If you’re caught driving too fast for conditions, your odds of avoiding a wreck are slim to none. If you’re driving a semi-truck or other large truck, it’s always a good idea to carry a portable fire extinguisher. The most common reason for truck accidents is driver fatigue.

How does driver fatigue cause truck accidents?

Aside from fatigue, a large truck’s size and center of gravity increase its risk of colliding with other vehicles. If you’re not careful, a fender bender or jackknife may be in the cards. It’s also worth noting that truck drivers are more likely to make a series of small mistakes than a single, larger one.

In a nutshell, the most important function of a large truck is to safely transport the goods. However, this is often not the case. In fact, a truck driver’s most important task may be to prevent the truck from veering out of the roadway and crashing into an unsuspecting pedestrian.

Damages after a truck accident

Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of commercial truck collisions. It is also a risk factor for causing injuries and fatalities. Approximately thirteen percent of drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents report drowsiness at the time of the crash.

Damages after a truck accident caused by driver fatigue may include medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering. The amount of compensation awarded can depend on the driver’s negligence and the severity of the injuries.

The most common injuries after an accident include whiplash, back and neck injuries, internal bleeding, broken bones, and head trauma. These injuries will require immediate medical attention. The most severe injuries will also result in a long-term disability.

When a driver suffers a serious injury, it can interfere with their ability to work and engage in normal activities. In some cases, the injury can affect the family’s life. It can also lead to loss of wages.

In some cases, the owner of the truck can be held liable for the collision. In addition, the trucking company can be liable as well.