Truck drivers are often put under immense pressure by employers to drive for long hours over great distances to deliver products. Under current regulations, a driver may drive up to 11 consecutive hours after 10 hours off duty. Big rigs weigh upwards of 60,000 to 80,000 pounds, but most cars only weigh 2,000 to 4,000 pounds. The size difference is incredibly dangerous, especially at speeds since it takes the average car going at 65 mph about 160 feet to stop, but a tractor-trailer travelling at the same speed will take 420 feet to stop (over double the distance!).
With long hours, it’s no wonder 13% of all tractor-trailer accidents are caused by driver fatigue – with The National Transportation Safety Board suggesting that the figure may be closer to 30-40%. Causing slower reaction times, the effects of sleep deprivation are likened to the effects of alcohol, so driving when tired is almost like driving under the influence of alcohol. For those who have had the misfortune of being in such an accident, what compensation is available for a fatigued truck driver accident?
The post What Compensation is Available for a Fatigued Truck Driver Accident? appeared first on Mississippi Lawyer Blog.