Truck driver fatigue is not a new issue. But the recent tragic accident that severely injured comedian Tracy Morgan and killed writer James McNair demonstrates why it’s more important than ever to protect yourself from drowsy truck drivers on our roads.
In fact, because it continues to be a threat to our safety, a new rule went into effect last summer that required truckers to take a mandatory 34-hour rest period if they have already worked 70 hours within a week.
Some vocal members of the trucking industry complained about the new rule. Even some truckers complained because the number of hours they could work (and therefore their income) dropped due to the mandatory breaks. But truck drivers working over 70 hours a week without adequate rest is a real problem that can be life-threatening to other drivers.
And now the mandatory rest rule may be suspended, making a bad trend even worse. From 2009 to 2012, the rate of fatal truck crashes increased nationwide. Truck crashes caused 3,912 deaths within one year, according the most recent stats are available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Truck driver fatigue is particularly scary for Georgia motorists especially those in counties with heavy interstate traffic such as Clayton, Henry, Dekalb and Fulton. Because of the high volume of trucks clogging our already busy highways, there is already a high risk of accidents involving trucks.
And while the president of Walmart stated that they will take “full responsibility” for the alleged drowsy truck driver that recently caused the accident, victims of trucking accidents typically face ruthless corporate attorneys who are skilled at defending the trucking companies. If you are a victim of a trucking accident, you need an experienced attorney on your side who has a successful track record fighting for trucking victim’s rights.
If you were involved in an accident and need help with your claim, email attorney John Webb at jwebb@smithwelchlaw.com or call 770-389-4864. Smith, Welch, Webb and White is recognized as a premier law firm throughout the state of Georgia. We have investigated hundreds of automobile collisions and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for injured clients and families of those killed in wrongful death accidents. Our team of experts routinely handles a wide range of legal matters, and will provide outstanding service for you, your family or your business.
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