Fatigued Truck Driving Accidents
In Missouri, we ensure truckers and employers are accountable for violating hours of service regulations.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces strict regulations on truck drivers, including mandatory rest breaks. According to these regulations, truck drivers are only allowed to drive for a maximum of 11 consecutive hours after taking a 10-hour break. Additionally, it is prohibited to drive beyond the 14th hour after starting duty.
Moreover, exceeding 60 hours of driving in a week or 70 hours in 8 days is not permitted. Despite these stringent rules, truck driver fatigue remains a significant issue as these regulations are frequently violated. When trucking companies prioritize profits over the safety of other drivers, innocent lives are forever altered.
Who is Liable for Fatigued Truck Driving Accidents?
The truck driver can be held liable since he or she owed a duty of care to others on the road to drive safely. By breaching this duty and driving while fatigued, the driver caused significant injury to another person, or in some cases, wrongful death.
However, the trucking company can also be held liable. Trucking companies must monitor their drivers and require them to keep logbooks, detailing their hours of service for each period of 24 hours. They are also required to test their drivers for the use of drugs and alcohol, and ensure they have proper licensing. If a trucking company fails to either monitor their drivers or take action when a driver violates FMCSA guidelines, they can be held liable for the damage caused in the truck accident.
Proving Liability in Accidents Caused by Tired Truckers
Proving a trucking company’s liability in accidents caused by fatigued drivers can be a challenging task. Many of these companies fail to preserve the necessary evidence, and some even go as far as deliberately destroying or altering evidence to hinder victims from obtaining compensation.
However, with the right attorney by your side, you can overcome this seemingly insurmountable challenge and ensure that your right to seek justice and compensation for your injuries is protected.
Do not feel powerless when facing negligent trucking companies or their drivers. At Rah Law, we have been tirelessly fighting for the rights of injured individuals in Missouri since 1976. With our expertise and resources, we can hold commercial trucking companies accountable for their negligence and help you recover the compensation you need to move forward and heal.
Contact us today at 417-512-2333 for a free consultation with one of our skilled team members.
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