Trucker Fatigue and California Big Rig Accidents

We all recognize the extraordinary dangers that big rigs pose to Southern California drivers. However, how much more serious are these dangers when the operator of a large truck becomes fatigued?

Truck crashes caused by fatigue are a major problem. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Administration, fatigue-related truck accidents went up dramatically after 8 consecutive hours of operating a big rig. Though, the statistics are convincing, there is a great deal of debate between the American Trucking Association (ATA) and safety organizations.

Currently, under the hours of service (HOS) rule, truckers may operate a large truck a maximum of 11 hours following 10 consecutive hours off duty. In addition, the HOS rule allows a trucker to resume a 7/8 consecutive day period after only taking 34 or more consecutive hours off duty.

Safety organizations have expressed concerns. The fear is that under the current HOS rule, truck accidents linked to driver fatigue will only go up. The ATA has dismissed these claims, stating that the 11-hour driving limit is safe.

It doesn’t matter which side of the debate you may be on, no one can deny the catastrophic impact that a truck accident can have on a victim. It can leave you with a lifetime of pain and suffering.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Southern California truck accident, you should contact one of our experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorneys at Steinberg & Spencer at (800) 989-6385.