Truck Driver Fatigue in New Jersey

Sleepy drivers are always dangerous, no matter what kind of car they operate. But the mere thought of a commercial truck driver falling asleep behind the wheel is enough to terrify. Indeed, truck driver fatigue is a real problem in New Jersey, and its complications can be devastating. Unfortunately, truck drivers are more susceptible to roadway drowsiness than most other drivers. That’s largely owing to the long hours and strenuous conditions under which they’re expected to drive. State and federal law have attempted to curb the pervasive problem of fatigue by closely regulating drivers and requiring them to get adequate rest before hitting the road. Nevertheless, employers often urge their drivers to meet deadlines, and it isn’t uncommon for companies to bend the rules — a violation of the law.

At DeZao & DeZao, P.C., we take truck driver fatigue very seriously. When drivers get behind the wheel even though they aren’t fit to drive, they endanger us all. Likewise, when employers disregard federal trucking laws, they put innocent lives on the line. As a Morris County personal injury law firm, we’re here to help victims recover monetary compensation for their pain, expense, and suffering. By holding truck drivers and their employers accountable to the law, we can ease your financial burdens and make the roads safer for everyone else in the future too.

Understanding Truck Driver Fatigue: Why It Happens

If you’ve ever taken a long trip down the interstate or driven alone overnight, you might be able to imagine what an average workday can feel like for New Jersey’s commercial truck drivers. The hours can feel as long as the road itself. Day after day, those difficult shifts take their toll, and drivers may inadvertently doze off. Tragically, even a single second of accidental shuteye can result in fatality. In fact, because of the vehicles’ enormous size, commercial truck accidents in New Jersey are especially likely to cause catastrophic injury or death. Common causes of truck driver fatigue include:

• Inadequate sleep
• Schedules demanding an excessive number of consecutive driving hours
• Too little vacation time
• Too few breaks or inadequate resting time in between routes/shifts
• High pressure from employers to meet deadlines.

Accordingly, drivers are subject to very strict rules about when, how often, and for how long they can drive. Employers who fail to provide enough rest time, or who do not take reasonable steps to ensure that their drivers are well rested, may be liable for any auto accident injuries that result. Of course, even a truck driver who complies with all the relevant regulations can still behave negligently, either by speeding or violating other traffic standards.

How a Parsippany Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

You have a right to expect that commercial truck drivers are well rested and able to safely operate the vehicles they bring onto the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in New Jersey, our office can help. An experienced Parsippany truck accident attorney at DeZao & DeZao, P.C. can assess your situation and identify all of the potential sources of compensation. It’s our job to uncover all the money you’re owed under the law. Remember, though, that time limits apply to these kinds of cases. In order to ensure justice in your case, you should take action as soon as possible. 

To schedule a free consultation with a Parsippany truck accident attorney today, call (973) 358-6134 or use our online quick connect form. We proudly serve all of Morris, Essex, Bergen and Passaic counties, and the entire state of New Jersey.