Dallas Fatigue Lawyer
Driver fatigue can lead to severe and fatal injuries on Dallas roads. Truck drivers are especially at risk of fatigue, as they are faced with long hours driving from city to city. All drivers have a duty to make sure they are fit to drive safely, but not everyone upholds that responsibility. If a fatigued driver caused your accident, it’s time to speak with a Dallas fatigue lawyer today.
You should not have to pay for your accident costs if you were not at fault. Our Dallas car accident lawyers can help you build a strong personal injury case to seek compensation for your damages and more. Call us at (469) 998-4069 or contact us online to get to know us and discuss your options during a FREE consultation.
Driver Fatigue Is the Most Common Cause of Truck Accidents
Truck drivers log thousands and thousands of miles as they transport shipments to and fro across the country. Since truckers are behind the wheel more than most other drivers, and on a professional basis, they are especially prone to driving-related risks—especially falling asleep behind the wheel.
Although there are many different reasons truck accidents happen—including distracted driving, drunk or drugged driving, poor maintenance, and more—driver fatigue is the most common cause of truck accidents.
Why Truck Drivers Are Fatigued
Commercial truck drivers are often highly pressured to meet strict deadlines no matter what. Even when trucking companies are forced to set guidelines for rest, drivers often sacrifice sleep breaks in an effort to push shipments further. Drivers or trucking companies might even change or falsify records to hide this.
While we can have sympathy for the need to work harder and longer, it’s not an excuse. Forgoing rest to stay on schedule puts everyone on the road at risk of injuries or death. If a truck driver causes an accident because they are low on sleep, they should be held responsible for the costs.
A Dallas fatigue lawyer can take a look at the details of your accident and determine who exactly was at fault. Sometimes, the at-fault party is solely the truck driver; other times, multiple parties might be partially at fault. Either way, your lawyer will work to build a strong injury to seek compensation for the costs of your accident.
Risk Factors Involved with Fatigued Driving
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving (or fatigued driving) led to 795 accident deaths in 2017. These types of accidents tend to be serious because a fatigued driver is not able to make smart decisions and avoid an accident.
Accidents caused by driver fatigue tend to involve:
- High speeds
- Serious injuries or deaths
- Driving in the early morning, mid-afternoon, or late at night
- A single vehicle exiting the roadway
Drivers who fall asleep at the wheel are not able to perform quick actions, such as swerving away or braking suddenly, to avoid a potential accident. As a result, the aftermath can be more serious and even involve multiple vehicles.
Why Fatigued Driving Accidents Happen in Dallas
A driver might be too tired to drive safely because of:
- Lack of sleep (or restful sleep)
- Alcohol or drug consumption
- Driving for long periods
- Late-night driving
- An untreated sleep disorder
- Medications that cause drowsiness
Truck drivers might consume certain drugs or illegal medications that allow them to stay up for longer periods of time. However, even if they are able to remain awake, it does not mean they are fit to drive safely in any fashion. Consumption of any harmful substance just increases the risk of accidents rather than improving driving ability.
Your Rights After an Accident Caused by Fatigue in Dallas
If you were hurt in an accident caused by a fatigued driver, you have legal rights. You may be entitled to full compensation for your damages like:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
You can seek compensation by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If more than one party is at fault for your accident, you might need to file more than one claim.
It’s best to consult with an experienced Dallas fatigue lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. The insurance company will be looking for ways to reduce the value of your claim, but a lawyer will help you uphold your rights and know what you deserve.
To get a FREE, no-strings-attached consultation today, call (469) 998-4069 or contact us online.
How a Dallas Fatigue Lawyer Can Help
An experienced lawyer can help you hold the truck driver or another negligent driver accountable for the damage they caused. We can help you by:
- Gathering information at the accident scene;
- Compiling proof of the accident report, your medical records, and your other damages;
- Communicating and negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf;
- Calling on experts to support your case;
- Interviewing eyewitnesses to the accident;
- Reviewing the driver’s logs and other documents; and
- Fighting for your right to the fullest compensation possible.
Our Dallas car accident law firm is also known for our communication with each client. We will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you in the loop throughout each step of your case.
Speak to a Dallas Fatigue Lawyer During a Free Consultation Today
We know how stressful the moments and days following an accident can be, especially if you know you were not at fault. That’s why we start with a 100% FREE consultation and we do not charge you a fee unless we win your case. There is no risk to you, no upfront or out-of-pocket costs to worry about, and we can begin helping you immediately. If you do not have transportation to your appointment, we can come to you or meet you anywhere that is most convenient.
To get a FREE, no-risk consultation, call us today at (469) 998-4069 or contact us online. We’ll discuss the details of your case and go over how we can help you.