How Tired Truck Drivers Cause Accidents in Weatherford
In Weatherford, TX, tired truck drivers cause catastrophic truck accidents that severely injure innocent victims. Federal and Texas laws regulate the number of hours truck drivers can work without rest periods and breaks. Unfortunately, drivers and trucking companies often ignore Hours of Service rules, resulting in deadly truck crashes.
At Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, our Weatherford truck accident lawyers have over 25 years of experience representing truck accident victims. We handle cases involving semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, tanker trucks, and other commercial motor vehicles. We have an impressive track record, securing over $300 million for our clients.
Contact our law office in Weatherford today at 817-420-7000 for a free consultation.
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How Stephens Law Firm Can Help Me After a Truck Accident in Texas
Our Weatherford personal injury lawyers will:
- Independently investigate the truck accident to gather and preserve evidence
- Work with leading experts as needed
- Identify all parties who may be liable for your damages
- Handle all communications with the insurance company
- Take your claim to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
If a truck driver causes an accident in Weatherford, Texas, the driver and other parties could be responsible for the damages caused by the crash. However, proving that a truck driver caused an accident because of fatigue can be challenging. At Stephens Law Firm, our legal team has extensive experience handling complex truck accident claims. We have the resources and skills to take on large trucking companies.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Weatherford truck accident attorney.
Why Fatigue Leads to Truck Accidents in Weatherford, TX?
Driver fatigue significantly increases the risk of truck accidents.
The effects of fatigue on driving ability include:
- Drifting from the lane
- Nodding off while driving
- Forgetting the last few miles driven
- Reacting more slowly
Drowsy driving can cause the same types of impairment as drunk or drugged driving. A truck driver is unable to react quickly enough to stop before rear-ending vehicles moving slowly in traffic.
Understanding Federal and Texas Hours-of-Service Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) controls hours-of-service (HOS) regulations. These regulations establish the maximum number of hours a truck driver can work without taking a rest period or break.
According to the federal regulations, truck drivers:
- Can drive up to 11 hours transporting property after taking ten hours off
- Can drive up to 15 hours transporting passengers after taking eight hours off
- Must take a 30-minute break after driving for eight straight hours transporting property
- May not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in a 7/8 day period
- May extend the maximum number of hours for a shift by up to two hours when adverse driving conditions are encountered
The Texas hours-of-service rules for property carriers mirror the federal rules. Truck drivers should always review HOS regulations for all states they operate within to ensure compliance.
Liability for Truck Accidents Caused by Tired Drivers in Texas
Texas is an at-fault state for personal injury claims. The parties responsible for causing a truck crash share liability for the victim’s economic and non-economic damages. Generally, a trucking company is vicariously liable for the employee’s negligence, giving the accident victim access to greater insurance coverage and resources to pay damages.
Proving liability for accidents involving tired truck drivers can be challenging. Our legal team will gather evidence and work with experts to build a solid case proving a tired truck driver caused the crash.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Truck Accident Victims?
Truck crashes can cause spinal cord injuries, brain damage, organ failure, and other catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer life-altering impairments. The economic and non-economic damages in a truck accident claim may include:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Diminished quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Rehabilitative therapy
- Impairments and disabilities
We’ll make sure all your damages are accounted for in your claim.
Call Our Weatherford Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a truck accident caused by a fatigued or drowsy driver in Weatherford, TX, Stephens Law Firm is here to help. With over 25 years of experience and more than $300 million recovered for clients, our truck accident lawyers have the skill and determination to take on even the toughest cases. We understand what you’re going through and will fight to secure every dollar you deserve.
Call today to schedule your free consultation and learn how our legal team can stand up to the trucking company on your behalf.
