Driving on Georgia’s highways, especially near Interstate 20, it’s not uncommon to share the road with large commercial trucks. While these trucks are vital to our economy, they can also pose serious risks when the drivers behind the wheel are fatigued. Truck driver fatigue is a leading cause of accidents on the road, and if you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a drowsy truck driver, it’s important to know your rights.
What Is Truck Driver Fatigue?
Truck driver fatigue occurs when a driver operates a commercial vehicle while physically or mentally exhausted, reducing their ability to make quick decisions and react to road conditions. Long hours behind the wheel, tight delivery schedules, and pressure from employers often contribute to truck drivers pushing their limits. This fatigue impairs their judgment, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of an accident.
Federal Regulations to Prevent Fatigue
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations in place to help prevent truck driver fatigue. These regulations, known as Hours of Service (HOS) rules, limit the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road before taking mandatory rest breaks. For example:
- Truckers can drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
- There is a 60/70-hour limit for driving in a 7- or 8-day workweek.
Despite these regulations, many drivers may feel pressured to exceed these limits to meet delivery deadlines or avoid losing pay.
How Fatigue Leads to Accidents
Fatigue affects a driver’s ability to stay alert and focused. Just like driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, drowsy driving impairs decision-making and coordination. Common behaviors of fatigued truck drivers include:
- Drifting between lanes
- Difficulty maintaining a constant speed
- Failing to recognize traffic signals or road signs
- Slower reaction times
These behaviors create dangerous situations for other drivers on the road, especially on high-traffic routes like Interstate 20.
Why Truck Driver Fatigue Is So Dangerous
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles are often catastrophic. A fatigued driver operating an 80,000-pound truck poses a serious threat to anyone on the road. Victims of these accidents may suffer severe injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even death.
Georgia Law and Truck Driver Fatigue
Georgia law holds commercial trucking companies and their drivers accountable for negligence, including cases of driver fatigue. If a truck driver violates FMCSA regulations or drives without adequate rest, and this leads to an accident, they can be held liable for the damages caused. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
What To Do If You’ve Been in a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident near Interstate 20 or anywhere else in Georgia, it’s crucial to act quickly. Trucking companies often have legal teams ready to defend their drivers and protect their interests. You need an experienced personal injury attorney who understands how to investigate these cases, gather evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
How We Can Help
At Parian Lawyers, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims. We understand the complexities of truck accident cases, including the role of driver fatigue, and we know how to hold trucking companies accountable. Our team will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations, and if you’ve been involved in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you navigate your personal injury claim.
