Drive on any of California’s congested freeways and it is guaranteed that you will see large trucks mixed in among the passenger vehicles. You are probably already aware of the dangers that big rigs pose to you and others on these fast roads. The large size of 18-wheelers makes it difficult for truck drivers to slow down quickly or maneuver in time to avoid an accident. Our team at McKnight, McKnight, McKnight & McKnight, Attorneys at Law understands the risks, as well as the many factors that contribute to serious trucking collisions.
You may know that truck drivers work long hours, and fatigue is a major issue contributing to a significant portion of trucking accidents. To combat driver fatigue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set regulations regarding truck drivers’ hours on the road. Currently, truckers are not permitted to drive longer than 11 hours a day, and must take 10 consecutive hours to rest. Truck drivers must also take 34 or more consecutive hours off after working 60-70 hours in 7-8 days.
Despite the rules, many truck drivers continue to drive long past the time they should have stopped. Why is this, you might ask. Most trucking companies have tight deadlines for shipments, and truckers need to stay ahead of these deadlines to reach their destinations on time and to get paid. Violating driving time laws can cost a truck driver heavy fines or his or her license. Driving for too long on little sleep may help truckers meet their deadlines, but it also puts themselves and others at risk. You may learn more the about the consequences of big rig collisions on our site.