Tampa Fatigued Driver Truck Accident Lawyer
We’ve all been tired while driving at some point. Many of us think nothing of it, though, as we yawn and close our eyes during the ride.
Truck drivers work long hours and are used to being exhausted while driving. However, this is a serious issue, considering that these drivers are hauling tens of thousands of pounds of cargo. Falling asleep behind the wheel can lead to a deadly crash. Long work hours, inadequate sleep, strenuous activities, and physical or mental exertion can all lead to driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of truck accidents.
Commercial truck drivers are more likely to drive while fatigued than other motorists. That’s because they often work on deadlines and cannot stop until their job is complete. Nevertheless, fatigue can lead to serious accidents. Have you been injured in a truck accident caused by fatigue? If so, contact the Tampa fatigued truck driver accident lawyers at Anderson & Anderson right away to preserve your legal rights.
Causes of Truck Driver Fatigue
There are laws in place that are meant to prevent truck driver fatigue. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has hours of service laws in place to limit consecutive driving and set rest periods. Truck drivers are required to take a break after 11 straight hours of driving. They are also mandated to stop driving once they have driven for 14 hours. Other limits include 60 hours in one week and 70 hours over the course of eight days.
However, not all trucking companies abide by these laws. And even when they do, it’s still possible for drivers to be fatigued. That’s because given these guidelines, it’s nearly impossible for truck drivers to have a regular sleep schedule. Even though truck drivers are supposed to have a 10-hour break between shifts, they don’t necessarily sleep during those breaks.
Many truck drivers use drugs and alcohol to help them sleep or wake up, which can impair judgment and make them feel even more drowsy while driving. On top of that, many trucking companies have unreasonable deadlines, so there’s pressure for drivers to keep driving, even when they have no business doing so due to extreme exhaustion.
Also, federal trucking laws do not always apply. If a truck driver is working solely in the state of Florida, they do not have to follow the hours of service laws. Instead, they must follow state regulations, which in Florida are fairly lax.
Contact Our Tampa Truck Accident Lawyers Today
Truck driver fatigue is a serious issue. If you have been affected, the right legal help can assist you in moving on from your injuries.
Get financial recovery from the Tampa truck accident lawyers at Anderson & Anderson. We will determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and get you the compensation you deserve. We will work hard to settle your case or litigate it in court so you get justice. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Fill out the online form or call 813-251-0072.
