Driving while fatigued impacts a driver’s ability to make split-second decisions in response to road conditions or fellow drivers, increasing the likelihood of a crash. Tired motorists also suffer decreased attention and focus and are more likely to misjudge distances, speeds, and the presence of people or vehicles nearby.
Fatigued truck drivers in Bakersfield risk involving those around them in an accident with significant injuries. When you have been seriously hurt in a truck collision involving a tired motorist, contact us at Colvin Accident Lawyers for a free case evaluation. Our experienced tractor-trailer wreck attorneys could help you gain compensation.
Truck drivers often face unrealistic distance requirements and delivery deadlines, which can cause them to operate large vehicles while tired. Driving while fatigued makes the roads less safe for everyone, and this is even more true when the driver is operating a large commercial truck.
Accidents involving trucks carry a significant risk for severe and catastrophic injury and even death because of their weight and size. Long shifts, driving throughout the night, pressure to meet deadlines, and inadequate rest and nutrition can lead to tiredness on the road.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry in the United States. Its regulations combat fatigued driving and promote safety.
For example, truck drivers are limited in the number of hours they may operate a commercial vehicle due to the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. The HOS regulation restricts drivers to the following:
Trucking companies and their employees must maintain records of their driving hours to remain compliant. If a driver fails to do so, they could face fines and other negative consequences, such as suspension of their commercial driving licenses.
Violating a federal law could also affect a person’s case for compensation, strengthening the claim. Our Bakersfield lawyers are familiar with all laws and regulations relevant to fatigued driving accidents and could help you hold any party at fault accountable.
When a person is injured in a truck accident, they should not bear the financial burden of someone else’s fault. Compensation could be recovered for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and ongoing therapies.
When a fatigued truck driver causes a collision in Bakersfield, they should be held accountable. Truck drivers and companies are responsible for driving safely and complying with all laws. When they fail to do so, an injured individual could pursue damages from the driver, truck company, and other possible responsible parties like maintenance workers and manufacturers.
At Colvin Accident Lawyers, we are experienced in dealing with fatigued truck drivers in Bakersfield accidents. We know that life keeps going after a collision, even if you are facing physical, emotional, and financial struggles.
Our skilled personal injury attorneys have a track record of successfully handling significant injury cases, and we will fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve. This way, you can take care of your family and move forward with your life and any care you need. Do not wait to reach out. Call us today to set up a free case evaluation.
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