Driver fatigue is a common cause of crashes. Many people just do not realize how dangerous it can be to drive while drowsy, but trucking companies and their drivers are well aware of the danger and need to be held accountable when a tired driver causes an accident. A New York truck accident lawyer from our firm can help you hold all liable parties responsible when driver fatigue has caused a crash.
Are There Ways to Reduce Incidents of Driver Fatigue?
There are actually ways to address driver fatigue. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration does this by setting rules about drivers and their hours of operation. Truckers are only permitted to be on duty for up to 14 consecutive hours. In that time period, they can only be driving for 11 hours maximum, which means that they are taking breaks and doing their best to avoid burning out.
When drivers ignore these regulations, they are creating a dangerous situation for themselves and others. Driver fatigue can affect the reflexes and make it harder for a trucker to react to changing road conditions. Drivers can even fall asleep behind the wheel.
What Kind of Injuries Are Common in a Truck Accident?
Trucks are larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, so accidents involving them are more likely to leave behind serious injuries. You could need lifelong care for your injuries, or you could even lose a loved one due to the injuries they suffered in a truck accident. We will help you fight for compensation if you have suffered:
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injury
- Disfigurement or disability
How Can a Lawyer Help Me if Driver Fatigue Caused My Accident?
You are not required to hire a personal injury lawyer, but an experienced attorney can bring a lot to the table. Your attorney can:
Fight for fair compensation: Your lawyer will make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve and that it covers everything, including your future medical care needs and any wages you lost out on while recovering.
File your case in a timely manner: You do not have an unlimited amount of time to sue after an accident. New York gives you three years to file a personal injury suit, so act quickly and our lawyers will make sure that you do not miss your chance to pursue compensation.
Name liable parties: If the driver was tired behind the wheel because they ignored regulations, they should be held accountable for the accident. If their employer encouraged them to flout rules to make deadlines, then they need to be held responsible for the accident as well. Your lawyer will pursue all liable parties.
Communicate on your behalf: Do not worry about talking to insurance companies, lawyers, or other parties involved in your accident. Your attorney is there to do the talking for you.
Contact Our Law Firm
If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a trucking accident, do not delay. Contact Zlotolow & Associates and schedule a consultation. We are ready to tell you more about your legal options and the potential value of your case.
