Some people are surprised to learn that driver fatigue is a common cause of accidents. Getting behind the wheel when you are tired can be nearly as dangerous as drunk or distracted driving. Truck companies know this though and so do their drivers. If drivers ignore the rules and drive for longer than legally allowed, they can easily cause an accident. If you get harmed in such an accident, know that a San Mateo County, California truck accident lawyer is ready to help you.
Why is Driver Fatigue So Dangerous?
Driver fatigue is dangerous because it makes it harder to react to changing road and traffic conditions. A truck driver who is tired is going to have slower reflexes or they might forget to take common safety precautions, like checking blind spots before they change lanes. They could also fall asleep behind the wheel, causing a crash.
Does the Trucking Industry Have Rules Designed to Reduce Driver Fatigue?
Because we know how dangerous driver fatigue can be, there are rules about how long a truck driver can be on the clock. A trucker cannot be on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours in a 24-hour period. They also have to take breaks and cannot drive for more than 11 hours each day.
A driver or company that ignores these kinds of rules is likely to cause an accident and serious injuries. All liable parties need to be held accountable when that happens.
Who Should Be Held Liable in My Truck Accident Case?
Who should be sued in your truck accident case can depend on a few factors. The truck driver is an obvious target, especially if driver fatigue caused the crash. But we also have to consider why the driver was pushing themselves. Did they violate federal regulations on their own? Or were they pushed to do it?
In some cases, the trucking company is the problem. Bosses can push drivers to ignore regulations. They can ignore a driver who is clearly fraudulently reporting their driving hours. If these kinds of things are happening behind the scenes, we help our clients sue the trucking company itself too.
What Kind of Compensation Should I Receive?
Truck accidents can leave behind serious injuries, and your compensation needs to address your future care needs and any psychic toll this accident took on you and your loved ones. We will help you fight for compensation that makes up for:
- The cost of past and future medical care
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain from disfigurement or disability
- Any other pain and suffering
Schedule a Consultation
So if you or a loved one have suffered injuries in an accident with a truck, contact the Law Offices of Allister R. Liao. We can help you fight for the compensation that you deserve. Call us and schedule a consultation today.
