Truck Driver Fatigue Can Have Deadly Consequences in NJ and NYC
Sep 9, 2022 | By Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. | Read Time: 4minutes | Personal Injury
Were you hit by a truck in New Jersey or NY and suspect it was caused by fatigue?
A crash with a large truck can leave lasting pain and overwhelming questions. Weโre here to listen, guide you through the confusion, and help you take steady steps toward recoveryโwith real support, clear answers, and care you can count on.
Truck driver fatigue is a danger to all New Jersey and New York road users. Due to the massive size of commercial trucks, itโs essential for truckers to maintain control of their vehicles. However, some drivers are drowsy or unwell when behind the wheel, which can lead to serious accidents.
The Causes of Truck Driver Fatigue in New Jersey and New York
Two of the most common causes of truck driver fatigue are driving too many hours without a break and lack of sleep. Truckers often have challenging schedules and feel pressure to work long shifts to keep up.
Federal law allows them to drive up to 11 straight hours after having a minimum of 10 straight hours off, which can be tiring. Making matters worse, some drivers donโt get enough sleep between shifts.
Other common causes of truck driver fatigue include:
Colds, flu and other forms of illness,
Certain prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications,
Alcohol consumption, or
Working unusual shifts.
The Impact of Truck Driver Fatigue in New Jersey and New York
Fatigue can negatively affect a truck driverโs reaction time, judgment, coordination and focus, increasing their risk of causing a serious traffic accident. Drowsy truckers are also more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel and lose control of their vehicle.
Studies have found drowsy drivers are just as dangerous as drunk drivers. In fact, staying awake for 24 hours is similar to having a blood alcohol level of .10, which is above the legal limit in New Jersey. Like impaired drivers, drowsy drivers can be found liable for personal injury claims if they cause an accident.
To prevent fatigue-related accidents, experts encourage truck drivers to get at least seven hours of sleep each night, take adequate breaks during their shifts and avoid medications that cause drowsiness.
When to Speak to a New Jersey or New York Truck Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in a commercial truck accident in New Jersey or New York and you suspect it was due to driver fatigue, please contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. today. Our commercial truck accident lawyers have decades of combined experience and will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.
Truck Accident Fatigue FAQ
Why is truck driver fatigue so dangerous?
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Truck driver fatigue slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of serious crashes. A fatigued driver may drift between lanes, miss traffic signals, or fail to stop in time. If you’ve been injured in a fatigue-related collision, a New Jersey fatigue truck driver accident lawyer can investigate whether the driver violated federal hours-of-service regulations.
What are the warning signs of a fatigued truck driver?
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Common warning signs include drifting between lanes, inconsistent speeds, delayed braking, frequent swerving, and failure to react to traffic conditions. If a fatigued truck driver causes a collision, an experienced NYC truck accident attorney can help determine whether driver fatigue contributed to the crash.
Are truck drivers required to take rest breaks?
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Yes. Federal regulations limit the number of hours commercial truck drivers may operate before taking mandatory rest breaks. When these rules are ignored, the risk of catastrophic accidents increases. Truck accident attorneys in NYC often review driver logs and electronic logging device (ELD) records to determine whether these regulations were violated.
How can driver fatigue be proven after a truck accident?
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Evidence may include electronic logging device data, driver logbooks, dispatch records, GPS information, fuel receipts, surveillance footage, and witness testimony. A New Jersey fatigue truck driver accident lawyer can gather and preserve this evidence before it is lost or destroyed.
Can a trucking company be held responsible for a fatigued driver?
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Yes. Trucking companies may be liable if they encouraged unrealistic delivery schedules, failed to monitor hours-of-service compliance, or knowingly allowed fatigued drivers to remain on the road. An experienced NYC truck accident attorney can investigate whether the trucking company contributed to the crash.
What injuries are common in fatigue-related truck accidents?
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Fatigue-related truck accidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, severe burns, and wrongful death. Truck accident attorneys in NYC regularly represent victims suffering life-changing injuries caused by exhausted commercial drivers.
What compensation is available after a fatigue-related truck accident?
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Victims may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, future treatment costs, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. A New Jersey fatigue truck driver accident lawyer can calculate the full value of your claim and pursue maximum compensation.
What should I do if I believe truck driver fatigue caused my accident?
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Seek immediate medical attention, report the crash to law enforcement, preserve photos and evidence from the scene, and avoid speaking with insurance companies before consulting an attorney. An experienced NYC truck accident attorney can begin investigating the driver’s work schedule and evidence of fatigue immediately.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in New Jersey or New York?
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The filing deadline depends on where the accident occurred and the circumstances of the case. Because evidence such as electronic driving logs may only be retained for a limited time, it is important to contact truck accident attorneys in NYC or a New Jersey fatigue truck driver accident lawyer as soon as possible after the collision.
How can a truck accident lawyer help after a fatigue-related crash?
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A truck accident lawyer can investigate driver fatigue, obtain electronic logging records, preserve black box data, interview witnesses, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to trial if necessary. Whether your accident occurred in New Jersey or New York, a New Jersey fatigue truck driver accident lawyer or experienced NYC truck accident attorney can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
David Pierguidi and Jared Glugeth understand how hard it may be for you and your family following an accident resulting from someoneโs negligent actions. Get the medical treatment you need right away and then call our law firm at any time of day for answers to your questions.
