How does fatigue contribute to trucking accidents?

On Behalf of | Mar 6, 2023 | Truck AccidentsFatigued Driving |

Accidents that involve trucks are typically devastating. When an 18 or 22-wheeler collides with a family car, the resulting damages can be irreparable. Unfortunately, trucking accidents are not uncommon.

Trucking accidents are caused by a variety of factors. According to studies, driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents. Drivers who want to stay safe may be understandably curious about how fatigue contributes to the causes of trucking accidents.

How fatigue impacts a driver’s ability to drive safely

Fatigue can take a huge physical toll on a truck driver. It can lead to muscle weakness, diminished reflexes, reduced coordination and blurred vision. Trying to drive any vehicle while fatigued can result in impaired judgment, reduced reaction times, daydreaming, disorientation and brain fog. All these increase the truck driver’s risk of causing an accident.

Additionally, an exhausted truck driver may deal with emotional changes that make them susceptible to road rage. An exhausted truck driver is also likely to be aggressive, thus, they are likely to violate basic traffic rules and put everyone at risk, even if they are not ordinarily an aggressive person.

Your obligations after a trucking accident

If you are involved in a trucking accident that is not your fault, it is important that you take the following steps to protect your rights and pursue the damages you deserve. First, you need to call the police to the accident scene right away.

Next, you need to see a doctor even if you do not feel hurt. Do keep in mind that some accident injuries are not going to be immediately apparent. Seeing a doctor right away will better ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated in time.

Finally, you need to file legal action within Texas’ statute of limitations period, which is two years from the date of the accident. You’ll want to connect with a lawyer sooner rather than later though, as they’ll need to preserve evidence related to your crash to strengthen your case.

Protecting your rights

If you are hurt in a trucking accident that is attributable to driver fatigue, you may be entitled to damages. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while pursuing a trucking accident claim in Texas.