If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it can be overwhelming and confusing to know what steps to take next. A Chicago fatigued truck driving accident lawyer in the law offices of The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers is experienced in this area of personal injury law, and stands ready to help you with your case.
Get in touch with our truck accident attorneys to discuss your case.
What Is Fatigued Driving?
Fatigue is a state of extreme tiredness or exhaustion that affects a person’s physical and mental capacity. In the context of a trucking company and driving, fatigue can be caused by long hours on the road without proper rest breaks, irregular sleep patterns and extended work shifts.
What Causes Truck Driver Fatigue?
There are several factors that can contribute to a truck crash and driver fatigue, including:
- Long work hours: Truck drivers are often required to work long shifts, sometimes up to 14 hours a day, which can lead to exhaustion and impaired driving abilities.
- Irregular sleep patterns: Due to the demands of their job, truck drivers may have irregular sleep schedules and struggle with getting enough restful sleep.
- Pressure to meet deadlines: Trucking companies and clients may put pressure on drivers to deliver goods within tight timeframes, leading them to push themselves beyond safe limits.
How Serious Is the Problem of Fatigued Driving in Illinois?
According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHSA), drowsy driving accounted for 1.6% of all motor vehicle fatalities in 2021 and 1.8% of fatal crashes from 2017 to 2021.
However, the Safety Board believes these numbers underrepresented driver fatigue, especially among commercial truck drivers, which research suggests contributes to 30-40% of heavy truck accidents.
What Federal Regulations Govern Fatigued Truck Driving?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA has set regulations to prevent fatigued driving among truck drivers, ensuring adequate rest and improved road safety.
One key rule is the Hours of Service (HOS), which mandates a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
The HOS rules also limit driving to a 14-hour window with a maximum of 11 hours of driving time within that period.
How Can a Chicago Truck Accident Attorney Help Me?
Truck accident victims who suffered severe injuries in trucking accidents caused by fatigued driving, can seek help from experienced Chicago truck accident lawyers. They can guide you through the legal process and fight for fair compensation.
Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
- Investigating the accident thoroughly to gather evidence of fatigue or other contributing factors
- Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf for fair compensation
- Representing you in court if necessary to seek maximum damages for your injuries and losses
How Can My Attorney Prove the Driver Was Fatigued at the Time of the Trucking Accident?
Your lawyer can help gather evidence such as the driver’s logbooks, electronic logging device (ELD) records, company dispatch records, and any available surveillance footage. Witness testimony and expert analysis can also be critical in proving driver fatigue.
What Type of Compensation Might I Receive?
If you have been injured in a truck accident caused by fatigued driving, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Contact a Chicago truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident caused by fatigued driving, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact an experienced Chicago truck accident attorney at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today.
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Get in touch today for your free consultation with one of our skilled truck accidents attorneys.
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