Fatigued Truck Drivers in Los Angeles Accidents

Unfortunately, long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, which is one of the most common causes of commercial vehicle collisions. If you have questions about fatigued truck drivers in Los Angeles accidents, and how to recover compensation after a wreck, now is the time to speak with a skilled injury attorney. Call today to begin working with an experienced truck accident attorney.

Fatigued Truck Drivers Are a Serious Hazard

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is tasked with creating regulations for commercial drivers, and it has adopted several rules regarding rest and fatigue.

Solo drivers are limited to spending 11 hours behind the wheel each day, and teams can drive for a maximum of 14. In addition to 30-minute breaks every eight hours, there is also a mandatory amount of time off daily and weekly.

These regulations are designed to reduce fatigue, but even the allowable amount of time on the road can lead to drowsy driving. Consequently, some truckers ignore these rules and continue driving long after they are required to stop for the night. While these drivers must keep logs of their breaks, manipulating these documents is easy. A Los Angeles attorney could review these logs and other information to prove liability after a fatigued driver causes a truck accident.

How Fatigue Increases the Risk of a Crash

Fatigue impacts a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle in many of the same ways alcohol intoxication can. It dramatically reduces a person’s reaction time, making it more challenging to avoid changing road conditions. This includes slowing in time to avoid rear-ending a stopped car in the truck’s path.

A person who is overly tired will also struggle with coordination. When truckers are fatigued, they may not have the physical coordination to maneuver around a stalled car or a pedestrian, even if they notice them in time.

While some truck drivers rely on stimulants to remain awake, this cannot replace the benefits of natural sleep. In many cases, the overuse of stimulants or even drugs can further increase the risk of a Los Angeles fatigued truck crash.

Common Injuries From Commercial Truck Accidents

When a motorist is involved in a fatigued truck accident in Los Angeles, the potential for serious injuries is alarmingly high. Drowsy drivers are not only more prone to causing accidents, but the injuries resulting from these incidents are often severe and life-altering. These injuries may include:

• Multiple broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Loss of limb
• Severe burns
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Paralysis

The impact of these injuries can be long-lasting, affecting a person’s quality of life and ability to return to normal routines. Seeking proper medical attention and legal support is crucial to address the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of such accidents.

Discuss the Hazards of Fatigued Truck Drivers With a Los Angeles Lawyer

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a fatigued truck driver in Los Angeles, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your losses. A successful civil lawsuit could help you recover damages from the driver and other potentially liable parties, such as the trucking company. Taking prompt action is essential, so do not hesitate to consult an experienced attorney from CD Law to explore your legal options and protect your rights.