No matter what vehicle a tired person is driving, it will always be risky. The danger will be greater when the driver operates a semi-truck. This is a tragic accident that is often overlooked.
Imagine a tired, semi-truck driver trying to stay awake. Unfortunately, the truck collided with another vehicle. Semi-truck drivers who experience fatigue face danger on the road. It’s devastating, to say the least, as it can put everyone on the road at risk of getting catastrophic injuries.
It’s crucial to seek legal guidance from an experienced St. Louis driver fatigue accident lawyer. Let’s explore this silent threat lurking on our roads.
Factors Fueling Driver Fatigue
Due to the nature of their work, truck drivers often stay on the road beyond their safe limits. They drive long distances and extended periods to transport goods on time. Too much fatigue and drowsiness lead to lapses in concentration, slower response times, and impaired judgment. It hinders their ability to operate their vehicles safely.
- Demanding schedules. Even if federal regulations limit drivers’ working hours, some still operate long hours behind the wheel. Drivers often operate on tight schedules and skip taking breaks to meet their tight deadlines.
- Pressure from the company. Most truck companies and employers prioritize profits over their driver’s well-being. This pressures drivers to work longer hours to meet their delivery quotas.
- Sleep deprivation. Since most truck drivers work night shifts, their sleeping patterns are disrupted. This disruption and lack of sleep affect their alertness, reaction, and focus.
Dangers Of Semi-truck Accidents
Accidents involving trucks result in severe injuries and fatalities. Due to their immense size and weight, these collisions are traumatic and devastating. Victims are left to deal with and suffer physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
The physical impact of these collisions can include:
- Amputations of limbs or digits
- Internal injuries that affect the internal organs, muscles, bones, and nerves
- Spinal cord injuries which can lead to paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe damage
Aside from the stated physical dangers, these accidents also have a significant financial effect on the victims and their families. There are medical expenses, lost wages, and property damages that one needs to deal with.
What To Do If You’re Injured In A Semi-truck Accident?
The first thing to do is get medical attention for your injuries immediately. If you can, call the emergency number 911 or have someone do it for you.
Ensure that you cooperate with the police officer’s investigation. If you’re certain that the driver who hit you is drowsy, report your concern to the authorities. Act quickly to ensure that evidence, like dash cam footage and damages will be gathered right away.
Most importantly, reach out to an experienced truck accident lawyer. The lawyer can investigate the accident, and build a case to prove that driver fatigue contributed to the accident.
Accident lawyers usually use different methods to investigate hours of service violations and truck driver fatigue.
Get The Legal Support You Need
Semi-truck accidents are life-altering. It’s hard to bear the pain, suffering, and emotional distress that comes with it.
If you or a loved one gets involved in a semi-truck accident caused by driver fatigue, seek assistance from a semi-truck accident lawyer. It’s challenging to navigate the situation alone. The attorney will assess your case and advise you on your legal options. Your lawyer will work on the compensation you deserve for the physical, emotional, and financial damages you’re dealing with. Contact your attorney to fight for justice and seek compensation for your accident.
