Drowsy Driving In The Trucking Industry
Drowsy driving is a significant issue in the trucking industry, leading to many accidents every year. At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we have seen the devastating effects that drowsy driving can have on victims and their families. Our goal is to help those affected by these accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve.
What Causes Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while feeling fatigued or sleepy. In the trucking industry, several factors contribute to this dangerous condition:
Long Hours: Truck drivers often work long hours to meet delivery deadlines, leading to fatigue.
Irregular Schedules: The irregular and often late-night schedules can disrupt a driver’s natural sleep patterns.
Pressure to Deliver: Drivers may feel pressured to continue driving even when they are tired, in order to meet tight schedules.
The Risks Of Drowsy Driving
The consequences of truck accidents caused by drowsy driving can be severe. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased awareness. This can lead to serious accidents, including:
Rear-End Collisions: Fatigued drivers may not notice traffic slowing down in time to stop, resulting in rear-end collisions.
Lane Departure: Drowsy drivers may drift out of their lanes, causing side-swipe or head-on collisions.
Rollovers: A driver who falls asleep at the wheel can lose control of the truck, leading to dangerous rollovers.
Legal Implications Of Drowsy Driving
Truck drivers and their employers are required to follow strict regulations regarding hours of service to prevent drowsy driving. When these regulations are violated, and an accident occurs, the responsible parties can be held liable.
Determining liability in these cases involves examining driver logs, company policies, and other evidence. At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we have the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate these accidents and build a strong case for our clients.
Steps To Take After A Drowsy Driving Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by drowsy driving, it is important to take certain steps to protect your rights and build a solid case:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always be the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation is essential.
Document the Scene: Collect evidence from the accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and police reports. This information can be crucial in supporting your claim.
Gather Information: Obtain the truck driver’s contact information, insurance details, and any documentation related to their hours of service.
Consult with an Attorney: Trucking accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties and regulations. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process and help you understand your rights.
Moving Forward After An Accident
The aftermath of a trucking accident caused by drowsy driving can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress are common challenges faced by victims. At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we understand what you are going through and are here to provide the support you need.
From wrongful deaths and serious injuries to dog bites and drunk driving cases, we tackle a broad spectrum of legal cases. Our achievements even include securing a million-dollar settlement for one of our clients.
Now, it’s time to get the closure and compensation you deserve. Get in touch with our team today, and see how a drowsy driving truck accident lawyer from our office can help.
