Truck driver fatigue is one of the most dangerous yet overlooked causes of commercial truck accidents. Long hours on the road, stringent delivery schedules, and pressure from trucking companies can lead drivers to operate large commercial vehicles while dangerously tired. In California, both state and federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest, but violations can still occur. If you were injured in a truck accident, proving driver fatigue may be important to establish liability and recover compensation. Continue reading for more information and consult with a Contra Costa County truck accident lawyer today.
What is Truck Driver Fatigue?
Truck driver fatigue refers to physical or mental exhaustion that impairs a driver’s ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Fatigue can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and reduce a driver’s ability to focus, which are similar to the effects of alcohol impairment. Fatigue has been shown to cause microsleeps, reduced awareness, and delayed braking or steering. Because commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, this is incredibly dangerous and turns the vehicle into a potential weapon. Federal safety agencies recognize fatigue as a major contributor to commercial vehicle accidents across the country.
What Are the Laws Regarding Trucking Hours?
Truck drivers often face long work hours, tight delivery schedules, and overnight driving, all of which increase fatigue risk. Because of this, federal regulations have been put in place to limit the number of hours truck drivers can be on the road. This promotes rest and recovery to ensure that drivers are alert and cautious while operating commercial trucks.
The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) enforces Hours-of-Service rules dictating limits and requirements for truck drivers. Consider the following.
- A driver may operate for a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
- A driver cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, with no extension for breaks
- A 30-minute break is required after 8 hours of driving
- Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours on-duty in a 7-day period or 70 hours of driving in an 8-day period
While these rules are put in place and legally enforced, violations still occur.
How Does Truck Driver Fatigue Affect Liability in a California Accident Case?
If a truck driver was fatigued on the road, it can be considered negligence and establish the driver’s or trucking company’s liability. If a driver knowingly violated Hours-of-Service rules or drove while dangerously tired, they may be considered negligent. However, if the trucking company encouraged drivers to exceed legal driving hours, failed to monitor driver logs, or ignored safety violations, it could also share responsibility. Companies can also be responsible under vicarious liability, meaning employers are responsible for employees’ actions during work.
By proving the truck driver was fatigued, you can demonstrate negligence and recover compensation for your damages. Reach out to an experienced attorney for more information and legal advice today.
