Commercial trucks are a common sight on Louisiana roads and throughout the U.S. And since most people are used to driving alongside them, they may not realize the dangers that these vehicles pose. Unfortunately, accidents that involve large commercial trucks claim over 4,000 American lives each year.
One of the leading causes of truck accidents in the U.S. is fatigued driving. Depending on the severity of the impact, these accidents lead to death, life-altering injuries and property damage. If you are hurt in a truck accident that is attributable to fatigue, you may be entitled to damages. But how exactly do these accidents happen?
What causes fatigue among commercial truck drivers?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 13% of commercial truck accidents are attributable to fatigue. Here are some leading causes of fatigue among truck drivers:
- Working long shifts: Commercial truck drivers are required to work for specific hours and take adequate rests between the shifts. However, it is not uncommon for some drivers to bend or break these rules. This can be due to pressure from employers or by falsifying their logs to make more money, especially if they are paid per hour.
- Sleep disorders: Commercial truck drivers who suffer from disorders like sleep apnea may not get enough sleep even if they stay in bed for hours. And a lack of sleep is likely to impair their ability to safely operate these vehicles.
- Drug and substance use: Drunk driving is a serious problem throughout the U.S. Additionally, most truck drivers use illegal stimulants to remain awake behind the wheel. All these significantly increase the risk of an accident.
A truck accident can leave you with life-altering injuries and significant property damage. Fortunately, you do not have to deal with all these alone. Learning more about Louisiana truck accident laws can help you protect your rights and interests while pursuing the damages you’re entitled to receive.