One of the most significant dangers on America’s highways is driver fatigue, especially among drivers of big rigs like semitrucks and tractor trailers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy driving leads to nearly 100,000 crashes each year, resulting in over 1,500 deaths and 71,000 injuries. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 13 percent of commercial motor vehicle drivers involved in crashes were considered to be fatigued at the time. 

Driving while fatigued impairs a person’s abilities in ways that are similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. Drivers can experience reduced reaction times, lack of attention, impaired judgment and decreased hand-eye coordination. Research cited by the FMCSA shows that being awake for 24 consecutive hours can produce impairment equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10 percent, which is above the legal driving limit in every state.

To combat the dangers of driver fatigue, the FMCSA enforces hours of service (HOS) rules that restrict how long a truck driver can operate a vehicle before taking mandatory rest breaks. The rules include:

• 11-hour limit — Drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

• 14-hour limit — Drivers may not drive beyond a 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty following 10 consecutive hours off duty. Off-duty time does not extend the 14-hour period.

• 30-minute break requirement — Drivers must take a half-hour break after eight cumulative hours of driving time.

• 60/70-hour limit — Drivers may not drive after 60 hours on duty in seven consecutive days, or 70 hours in eight consecutive days, depending on their operating schedule. Drivers can reset this calculation by taking at least 34 consecutive hours off duty.

If you or a loved one was injured in an accident involving a large truck, you may have legal grounds to hold the trucking company responsible for your damages. Trucking companies are required by federal law to ensure that their drivers comply with HOS rules. When a company prioritizes schedules, deadlines or profits over safety, they may be liable for crashes that are shown to have resulted from fatigue. 

An experienced truck accident attorney can investigate potential HOS violations and work to hold the trucking company and other negligent parties responsible. An attorney can help you recover financial compensation not only for your physical injuries but also for related losses such as medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. 

The attorneys at Pikrallidas & Probasco pursue compensation for individuals harmed in truck accidents in Virginia and Washington, D.C. We have offices in Fairfax, Manassas, Centreville and Front Royal. Please call 703-267-2600 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.