The Contribution of Driver Fatigue to Truck Accidents
Truck driver fatigue is a leading contributor to truck accidents. It’s so prevalent that state and federal regulations restrict commercial operators’ drive times to ensure they get adequate rest. Long hauls, even within state lines, can lead to driver fatigue, resulting in negligent and dangerous driving behaviors.
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a South Carolina semi-truck crash caused by a drowsy driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation. The truck accident attorneys at Wilson Law Group, LLC can advise on your legal rights in a free consultation. Contact us today.
About Truck Driver Fatigue
Driving a commercial truck can lead to fatigue for various reasons, including:
- Delivery schedules – Time means money, and commercial drivers usually have a limited time to deliver their cargo. Getting from point A to point B often requires them to spend long shifts behind the wheel for many days in a row.
- Erratic sleep schedules – Delivery schedules can also require truck drivers to drive through the night or sleep during the day. In addition, truckers may not get quality sleep on the road.
- Sedentary lifestyles – Truck drivers spend many hours behind the wheel, which can lead to low energy and sleepiness.
- Bursts of strenuous physical activity – Drivers may have to expend considerable physical energy when loading or unloading their trucks, contributing to fatigue.
Legal Standards and Regulations
Because state and federal authorities recognize truck driver fatigue as a top cause of truck accidents, they have established regulations to limit drive times and mandate breaks.
Truckers who travel across state lines must adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations, which state that drivers:
- May not drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- May not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty
- May not drive more than 60 hours in seven consecutive days or more than 70 hours in eight consecutive days
- Must take a 30-minute break after driving eight cumulative hours
South Carolina also has HOS regulations for commercial trucks that travel in-state. According to the South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-90, intrastate commercial drivers:
- May not drive more than 12 hours following eight consecutive hours off duty
- May not drive for any period after having been on duty 16 hours following eight consecutive hours off duty
- May not drive more than 70 hours in seven consecutive days or 80 hours in eight consecutive days
Impact of Driver Fatigue on Truck Accidents
Fatigue can cause a trucker to fall asleep behind the wheel, become distracted, or otherwise drive negligently. Many traffic violations result in deadly truck accidents, including:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Failing to maintain lane position
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Failing to stop at a red light, stop sign, or marked intersection
Furthermore, when truck drivers are asleep or tired, they may not take actions that could lessen the severity of a crash, such as slowing down or swerving. Accidents caused by truck driver fatigue in SC can cause severe and fatal injuries, including spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, broken bones, and internal bleeding.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident in South Carolina, an experienced truck accident lawyer from Wilson Law Group, LLC can help you fight for the financial compensation and justice you deserve. Our legal team will investigate the accident, craft a solid personal injury claim, and aggressively advocate for maximum compensation for you.
Ready to learn more? Call or contact us today for a free consultation.