Fatigued Truck Drivers in Austin Accidents
When truck drivers work long hours, they risk falling asleep at the wheel. Truck driver fatigue can cause serious accidents because it affects the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely and endangers other drivers. Every year, hundreds of truck collisions involve drowsy truck drivers.
When you were injured in an accident with a fatigued truck driver, consider retaining a truck crash attorney to represent you. A successful injury lawsuit can reimburse you for medical care, lost wages, and other related expenses suffered during the accident. A lawyer can hold fatigued truck drivers in Austin accidents accountable.
The Dangers of Truck Driver Fatigue
Getting behind the wheel without having enough sleep is dangerous for any driver. Not only can fatigued drivers fall asleep at the wheel, but fatigue causes:
- Delayed reaction times
- Poor decision making
- Tunnel vision
- Forgetfulness
- Drifting out of lanes
Since commercial trucks are significantly larger than other vehicles on the road, when a trucker is tired, it can cause devastating collisions in Austin. Fatigue impairs the trucker’s concentration, reaction, and decision-making skills.
Truck driver fatigue can be caused by insufficient sleep, working long shifts to meet delivery deadlines, and disregarding federal truck driving regulations. Commercial truck drivers are usually paid based on miles traveled, so many attempt to travel long distances over short periods of time. In an effort to curb truck wrecks caused by fatigue, federal trucking regulations restrict the number of hours a trucker can travel within 24 hours and mandate breaks.
Despite regulations to protect truckers and other drivers, driver fatigue is a common cause of truck accidents. Do not hesitate to consult an attorney if you suffered an injury in a crash with a fatigued driver.
Preventing Truck Driver Fatigue
Driving a commercial truck is a demanding job. Not only do truckers work long hours, but they also face other obstacles on the road that make it one of the most dangerous jobs. Driver fatigue is a prevalent problem, and the trucking industry works to raise awareness to avoid accidents, injuries, and deaths due to trucker fatigue in Austin.
One of the most important things truckers can do to avoid accidents is take a break when they start to feel fatigued. Some other ways to prevent driver fatigue include:
- A good night’s sleep before a shift
- Frequent breaks as needed
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Take naps
- Avoid drugs, alcohol, and medication that can cause drowsiness
- Know the signs of driver fatigue
Pulling over at the first sign of fatigue is the best way to avoid a collision. There are developing technologies designed to help combat trucker fatigue. With a proper sleep schedule, frequent breaks, and other safety precautions, truckers can reduce the risk of truck accidents.
Speak to an Attorney When Fatigued Truck Drivers in Austin Cause Accidents
Every year Texans are injured in truck crashes caused by driver fatigue. When collisions occur due to preventable factors like distracted or fatigued driving, the injured person has a right to financial compensation. When you were injured by fatigued truck drivers in Austin accidents, contact an attorney to represent you. Through an injury settlement or lawsuit, you can recover the cost of medical treatment, lost income or earning potential, and other related expenses such as pain and suffering or emotional trauma. Contact our team to discuss your legal options.
