The trucking industry in the USA is the most suitable way to get goods across the US and it is consistently on the rise. According to statistics, 74% of all fatal passenger vehicle cases include large trucks. Mechanical defects, driver fatigue and new tour routes are among the most common causes of truck crashes. The impact of a truck accident can cause serious personal injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma.
Trucker exhaustion is one of the key reasons for truck accidents. Read on to learn more about the dangers of driver fatigue in California.
Truck Drivers and Fatigue
Truck driver fatigue is among the most frequent causes of road accidents in California. If left unhandled, extreme tiredness can easily lead to serious health issues. When it comes to truck drivers, such an issue can even be fatal, resulting in unwanted road accidents.
Operating large vehicles needs proper qualifications, knowledge, and a perfectly healthy driver. Unfortunately, employers and truck drivers usually neglect the basic safety standards, leading to truck accidents.
But, drivers need proper driving distance and suitable rest time while doing their job. Driving long hours without proper rest can result in extreme exhaustion, impairing a driver’s performance, causing them to crash, derail from the road, or lose focus mid-drive.
Here are the main reasons why fatigue can lead to truck driver accidents on the road.
Fatigue Affects Driver Perception
Drowsiness does similar things to your brain as being drunk. Fatigue lowers concentration levels, affecting a driver’s ability to focus on the road, its conditions, and the surroundings. As a result, a tired driver may find it harder to avoid dangerous situations.
A tired driver can fall asleep on the road, putting their lives and passengers at significant risk.
Other Factors that Cause Fatigue in Truck Drivers
Other reasons for driver fatigue include:
- Traffic conditions – Construction zones, delays, road closures and road designs can lead to driver fatigue.
- Unhealthy lifestyle and general health conditions – Lack of rest, minimal sleep, or poor diet.
- Mental health, stress, and work-life balance – Mental distress and anxiety can result from the pressure to meet deadlines and address the concerns of management or customers.
Among other factors that can affect fatigue in truck drivers are difficulties with operating the vehicle, lack of experience, or long driving hours in poor weather conditions or lighting.
Work with a Dedicated Truck Accident Attorney
If you are involved in a truck driving accident and require legal assistance, Haffner Law has your back.
Our firm provides personalized legal counsel and maximum engagement during various legal processes. We specialize in fatigued trucker accidents, ensuring effective legal representation at all times.
If you need a car-accident-related case, get in touch with Heffner Law and trust our team of truck accident lawyers to handle your case professionally. It is our responsibility to fight for what you deserve.
Reach out to our Los Angeles office today to learn more about our services and schedule your appointment.
