Driver Exhaustion Leads to Accidents in the Sacramento Area

Sacramento Truck Accident Attorneys Advocate for Their Victims

Driver exhaustion/fatigue is a leading cause of trucking accidents in the Sacramento area. If you have been involved in a truck accident in the Sacramento area and you believe it was the result of driver fatigue, it is important that you speak to our Sacramento truck accident attorney as soon as possible so we can get to work determining fault, and filing a compensation claim if indicated.

Trucking companies sometimes expect their truck drivers to adhere to unrealistic scheduling in order to maximize profitability and stay competitive. Such schedules sometimes keep drivers on the road even when they are exhausted and should be resting. In addition, because a truck driver's compensation is most often dependent upon the distance covered (pay per mile) and/or the delivery of the load, truck drivers will drive longer in order to make more money. Regardless of the reason, when a truck driver drives too long without resting, driver exhaustion sets in and accidents happen. 

The NHTSA Statistics

The National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA) reports that driver exhaustion accounts for between 30 and 40% of all truck accidents and about 30% of all fatal truck accidents. In a survey conducted in 2003, almost 20% of truck drivers admitted that they had fallen asleep while driving at least once in the previous three-month period.

While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Department of Transportation have set rules and regulations restricting truck drivers from driving long hours without rest, many trucking companies and/or truck drivers simply disregard these rules and regulations, continuing to drive beyond the maximum time allowed. Sadly, too often they find themselves overcome with driver fatigue, which results in a serious truck accident. 

Compensation for Injuries That Were a Result of Negligence

We understand that your immediate goals are to get your medical bills paid and to make sure that you do not suffer financial loss. But there's more to your claim. Our highly skilled Sacramento truck accident attorneys will seek compensation for your injuries, medical costs, treatments, care now and in the future, lost wages today, lost earning power in the future, pain and suffering, and other relevant costs depending on your personal situation.

When you are involved in a truck accident, it is important to have legal experience by your side in order to ensure that these goals are met. As a leading Sacramento trucking accident law firm, we are ready to provide you with the legal representation you need and deserve.