Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents on Virginia’s roads. For truck drivers, the long hours, tight schedules, and monotonous stretches of highway often lead to physical and mental exhaustion. This significantly increases the risk of accidents. Understanding the risks and responsibilities around driver fatigue is critical for anyone in the industry.
The dangers of fatigue
When a driver feels fatigued, reaction times slow down, and quick decision-making becomes compromised. Fatigue can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol, leading to impaired judgment and reduced alertness. In fact, 5.2% of deadly accidents involving large trucks are due to fatigue and impairment.
Regulations and responsibilities
To mitigate the risks of fatigue, federal and state regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can stay on the road without taking breaks. Truck drivers can drive for a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty within a 14-hour work window. Additionally, drivers must take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving and cannot exceed 60 hours of driving in seven days or 70 hours in eight days.
Legal consequences for truck drivers
When a truck accident occurs due to driver fatigue, the driver and the trucking company often face significant legal consequences. Courts may hold them liable for any injuries or damages resulting from the accident.
If the driver violated hours-of-service regulations, the court may consider this negligence, further strengthening the case against them. Legal claims often include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The importance of following fatigue prevention laws
Fatigue presents a serious issue that requires careful management by professional drivers and trucking companies. By understanding and following the laws designed to prevent fatigue, truck drivers help keep Virginia’s roads safer for everyone.