Tennessee has a high fatality rate when it comes to truck accident deaths, despite strict safety inspections and trucking laws. Trucking accidents can happen for many reasons, but one of the most prevalent factors, and one that can be prevented, is driver fatigue. There are set regulations as to how many hours a trucker can drive without taking a break, known as the federal Hours-of-Service, but truckers frequently break the rules and falsify their logs. Studies have found that fatigue is a serious problem and can lead to catastrophic tractor-trailer accidents.
According to the National Transportation Board, as many as 30 to 40 percent of heavy truck accidents may be linked to trucker fatigue. Truckers feel the pressure to deliver their loads on time and unforeseen events, such as poor weather or traffic, can put them behind schedule. Many trucking companies put the drivers on such a tight schedule that it is virtually impossible for a driver to meet the schedule without violating the law. In an effort to catch up for lost time, they may make the fatal mistake of forgoing a much needed rest break, driving in hazardous conditions, speeding, or continuing on when they are fatigued.
The only way to check the compliance with the Hours-of-Services regulation is for an officer to review a trucker’s logbook. Some safety advocates have alluded that truckers falsify logbooks so that they can make up time and mileage. An experienced truck accident attorney also knows how to check for compliance with the regulations.
The current federal regulation allows a trucker to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Truck drivers are also permitted under federal law to drive a maximum of 60 hours in a seven-day period or 70 hours during an eight-day period.
If you have been injured in a Middle Tennessee truck accident that you believe may have been caused by a trucker, you should contact an experienced Nashville truck accident lawyer who can explain your legal rights. Attorney George Fusner has 32 years of legal experience and can help you recover compensation the law allows for your injuries. Call the Law Office of George R. Fusner, Jr. today at 800-427-8960 or 615-251-0005 to personally speak with Mr. Fusner.
