Fatigue is a common complaint among semitruck drivers due to the lengthy hours spent on the road. Drivers’ alertness, decision-making and reaction time all suffer when exhaustion takes over.
Under tight deadlines, truckers may overlook road safety. They may feel forced to exceed legal driving limits and speed limits, which may result in serious accidents. Nevertheless, accidents caused by fatigue can be avoided by staying alert and steering clear of unnecessary distractions.
Laws are in place to deter fatigued driving
The Federal Motor Safety Carrier Administration implemented truck driver fatigue laws in 2013 to prevent avoidable accidents. In addition, the Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations require mandatory breaks and limit maximum drive times. Here are the HOS basics:
- Maximum driving hours per shift: Drivers can drive up to 11 hours within a 14-hour work period after ten consecutive hours off duty.
- Mandatory breaks and rest periods: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) must also be used to correctly record driving time and make sure that HOS rules are followed.
- Off-duty requirements: Drivers must take at least 34 consecutive off-duty hours after working for a specified number of hours a week.
The HOS statutes prioritize the safety of all motorists by implementing regulations to prevent accidents caused by driver exhaustion, highlighting the significance of rest and reducing the hazards connected with exhaustion.
Despite these measures, semitrucks still cause nearly 6,000 crashes annually, with drowsiness and exhaustion contributing to unnecessary risk-taking and accidents. Trucking companies bear some of the blame for these accidents when they encourage their truckers to exceed specified driving hours. However, it is illegal for them to make irrational demands that force drivers to break the law.
If you are involved in an accident with a truck, the driver’s fatigue may have been a cause. However, other parties may have liability as well. It’s smart to seek legal guidance to help you get the maximum possible compensation.