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Truck Driving While Fatigued

Truck Accident Attorney in Las Vegas, NV

Truck drivers play a vital role in America’s economy, delivering everything from mail and food to essential resources. However, ensuring their safety and well-being is equally important. Fatigue among truck drivers is a significant concern, contributing to the rising number of truck accidents involving large trucks.

The Rising Concern of Truck Accidents

By the end of 2018, data revealed an alarming trend: truck accidents involving large trucks were increasing year after year. One major contributing factor is driver fatigue, which has become a key area of focus for safety experts and regulatory authorities. According to a survey by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver fatigue ranks as a leading cause of truck collisions, alongside factors like driver inexperience and unfamiliarity with the area.

Federal Hours of Service Laws

To combat driver fatigue and improve road safety, the FMCSA has established federal hours of service regulations for truck drivers transporting property. These rules include:

  • Maximum Driving Hours: Drivers cannot operate a vehicle for more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
  • Workday Limits: Drivers cannot drive for more than 14 consecutive hours after returning from a 10-hour off-duty period.
  • Break Requirements: A shift can only begin if less than 8 hours have passed since the driver’s last off-duty period or sleeper berth.
  • Weekly Driving Caps: Drivers are limited to 60 hours of driving in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days.

Learn more about FMCSA regulations.

While these laws aim to prevent fatigue-related accidents, some trucking companies push their drivers to the limit to meet delivery deadlines, often breaking these rules.

The Pressure on Truck Drivers

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for on-time deliveries is higher than ever. Unfortunately, this pressure can lead to unsafe practices. The U.S. is currently experiencing a shortage of truck drivers, which exacerbates the problem. Overworked and fatigued drivers are more likely to make errors, putting themselves and others on the road at risk.

Explore tips for avoiding truck accidents.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Truck Accident

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler or other large commercial vehicle, it’s crucial to take action. A personal injury attorney specializing in truck accidents can help you:

  • Understand your legal rights.
  • Investigate whether federal regulations were violated.
  • Build a strong case to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact a truck accident attorney in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

Truck drivers are the backbone of America’s supply chain, but their safety must not be overlooked. By adhering to federal regulations and addressing the root causes of driver fatigue, we can reduce the number of truck accidents and save lives.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Las Vegas, NV, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified truck accident attorney. They can guide you through the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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