Although many companies in Missouri and across the nation set strict rules on how many hours a truck driver is allowed to drive a day, there are still many truck accidents caused by fatigue. A number of factors are reported by truck drivers as being the issue, from the pressure to deliver cargo to wanting to make more money. Although the reasons are clear, what are the dangers of fatigued driving? Read on to learn further about this growing issue.
Impaired driving
Perhaps the most dangerous thing that a driver can experience when they are fatigued is losing their ability to focus. This is because trucks cannot stop as easily as passenger cars. If they don’t spot a danger in time because they aren’t paying attention to the road, there is likely little a truck driver can do to avoid a truck accident from occurring. Some of the most common sleep deprivation symptoms reported by truck drivers include:
- Reduced vision
- Reduced coordination
- Reduced judgment
Dangers to other drivers
Unfortunately, the bad judgment of some truck drivers who choose to drive while fatigued leads to others being severely injured. In a face-off with a truck, most cars won’t stand a chance if there is a head-on collision. Even being bumped just a little by a swerving truck can lead drivers to lose control of their vehicle.
If you’ve been struck by a truck and suspect that the collision occurred due to fatigue, it is important to seek the services of an attorney as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney may be able to help gather evidence to prove your claim in court and thus get you the compensation you deserve.
