Waco Fatigued Trucking Accident Lawyers
Injured by a Drowsy Truck Driver in Waco, TX?
Fatigue is a serious problem among commercial truck drivers. Long hours, demanding schedules, and tight deadlines can lead to fatigue, impairing a driver's ability to operate their vehicle safely. When a fatigued trucker gets behind the wheel, the risk of accidents significantly increases. These truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial trucks.
Are you or a loved one the victim of a fatigued trucker accident in Waco, Texas? The Law Offices of Vic Feazell, P.C. understands the devastating impact such accidents can have on individuals and families. If you have been injured in a fatigued driving accident involving a truck, you must seek legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call our Waco office at (254) 938-6885 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation.
Common Causes of Fatigued Driving Accidents
Fatigue is a significant contributing factor to truck accidents, as it impairs a driver's ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound decisions.
Several causes can lead to fatigue-related trucking accidents:
- Sleep deprivation: Lack of sufficient sleep is a common cause of fatigue among truckers. Long working hours, irregular schedules, and extended periods on the road can result in inadequate rest, leading to drowsiness and decreased alertness.
- Hours of Service (HOS) violations: Truck drivers are subject to regulations regarding their working hours and mandatory rest breaks. Violating these rules can lead to excessive fatigue. For example, drivers may exceed the maximum allowable driving time without taking required rest periods.
- Irregular work schedules: Inconsistent work schedules, including night shifts and rotating shifts, disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to fatigue and reduced performance.
- Monotonous driving: Long hours spent driving on monotonous highways with little variation in scenery can contribute to fatigue. The lack of mental stimulation and repetitive nature of the task can cause drivers to become drowsy or lose focus.
- Untreated sleep disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea, insomnia, or narcolepsy can significantly impact a truck driver's quality of sleep, leading to chronic fatigue and daytime sleepiness.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Extended periods of sitting without physical activity can cause fatigue. Truckers may spend long hours behind the wheel without engaging in exercise or movement, which can lead to decreased alertness and overall fatigue.
- Poor diet and hydration: Unhealthy eating habits and inadequate hydration can contribute to fatigue. Consuming high-sugar, high-fat foods and not drinking enough water can affect energy levels and mental clarity.
- Substance use and abuse: The use of stimulants, such as caffeine or energy drinks, to combat fatigue can lead to subsequent crashes due to overstimulation or the eventual crash after the effects wear off. Additionally, the use of illicit substances or prescription medications with sedating effects can impair a driver's alertness and judgment.
Proving Liability in Fatigued Trucker Accidents
Proving liability in fatigued trucker accidents can be complex. Multiple parties may be involved, including the truck driver, trucking company, and potentially other entities responsible for vehicle maintenance, loading, or overseeing driver schedules.
Our dedicated attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding trucking accidents in Texas. We will conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify all liable parties and establish their responsibility for your injuries. Our goal is to maximize your compensation by holding all negligent parties accountable.
If you have been injured by a fatigued truck driver in Waco, TX, contact us today at (254) 938-6885 for a free consultation.