Truck Driver Fatigue

Truck driver fatigue is a dangerous condition that contributes to trucking accidents, injuries and death. Truck driver fatigue results from too much driving and not enough rest. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration addressed this dangerous condition by adopting new hours-of-service rules  instituted on July 1, 2013.

• Before the new hours-of-service rules, drivers could drive up to 82 hours per week
• After the new hours-of-service rules were instituted, drivers can drive a maximum of only 70 hours per average workweek
• These laws are projected to save an estimated $280 million as a result of fewer large truck accidents
• Additionally, some $470 million will be saved as a result of improved driver health.

Other Hours-of-Service Changes

• Under the new laws, truck drivers must take a 30 minute break after driving 8 hours before they can drive again
• The new daily shifts are the same as before – up to 11 hours
• A truck driver can drive a 70 hour weekly limit and must halt driving in order to rest for at least two nights
• There is a restart rule that permits drivers to begin a new work week after not driving for 34 consecutive hours

If You Were in an Accident with a Driver Who May Have Had Driver Fatigue

If you were in an accident with a commercial truck, it is important to communicate the details to your attorney. If you suspect the driver suffered from driver fatigue, the case may be investigated properly. Evidence may be legally obtained from the truck’s black box and/or the driver’s log book. There may be medication(s) that the driver was taking to combat fatigue – in and of itself this is illegal. This applies to prescribed and over-the-counter medication.

Complimentary Case Review with Truck Driver Fatigue Attorney; No Legal Fees Unless Your Case is Settled or Won

Attorney Paul VanDerwerken offers a free case review so that you can discuss the details of your case and look at a future possible course of action. There are no upfront fees or costs involved in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Cases are taken on a contingency fee basis and your legal fees are taken from the negotiated settlement agreement or the court award. If you were injured, your attorney will seek the maximum compensation allowable, which may include medical expenses and future rehabilitation, pain and suffering, loss of income, property damage and other relief. To schedule an appointment with Attorney VanDerwerken, call 702-385-5050. Attorney VanDerwerken has settled more than 2000 car accident cases and has taken more than 125 cases to verdict in court. He settles an average of 95% of his cases.