Driver Fatigue

Commercial Trucking Accidents Caused by Driver Fatigue

When It Matters Most, We’ll Be There for You

Commercial Trucking Accidents can be caused by a variety of reasons including excessive speed, poor weather, or bad road conditions. However, a leading cause of commercial trucking accidents remains driver fatigue.

Driver fatigue can be caused by medical conditions or simply a lack of sleep. While non-commercial driving is not governed by any specific statute as to how long one may drive within a given time period, commercial truck drivers must adhere to specific regulations called Hours-of-Service (HOS), which are regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (which is a division of the United States Department of Transportation).

Commercial Trucking Hours of Service (HOS)

The HOS regulations only apply to those operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). The HOS regulations limit both the amount of hours of driving per day and the number of hours of driving and working per week. These regulations also require certain rest periods for drivers.

To document compliance with these regulations, CMV drivers are required to keep a detailed log documenting driving and rest periods and other information. (Drivers can also comply using an electric recording device).

Did Driver Fatigue or Non-Compliance with the HOS Regulations Contribute to Your Injuries?

When a commercial trucking accident occurs, as part of our investigation we seek to obtain a copy of the driver’s journal so that we may see if the driver has been complying with the applicable HOS regulations.

In some instances, truck drivers fail to comply with these regulations because they would rather drive longer periods and make more money than follow the rest period rules. In addition, even if the driver has complied with the HOS regulations, other factors may exist that may have contributed to driver fatigue, such as medical conditions or medications taken by the driver.

If you’ve been injured by a commercial truck driver, it’s important to find out what caused the accident, and whether a violation of the HOS regulations may have contributed to the accident. Call us to find out more about how we vigorously represent clients. The initial consultation is free, and you are under no obligation to use our services. When we meet you, we can learn about your case and discuss the options that may be available, and you can learn how we will serve you if you retain us.

Don't Take Our Word For It

Hear What Our Clients Have to Say About Us
  • “Mr. Dore and his staff truly care about their clients and work tirelessly on their clients' behalf.”

    - Bonnie S.
  • “Jim was the best and his staff was helpful and was able to answer all of my questions.”

    - Jim
  • “Their customer service, attention to detail, and responsiveness are phenomenal.”

    - Danielle
  • “The amount of time and effort Jim Dore has spent helping my family and I was phenomenal.”

    - Former Client
  • “Dore Law Group is always my first choice!”

    - Harry H.
  • Unsafe Hospital Conditions $2.5 Million
  • Failure to Diagnose Cause of Paralysis $2 Million
  • Railroad Bulkhead Collapse $1.8 Million
  • Unsecured Load Injury $1.2 Million
  • Motorcycle v. Commercial Truck $1.2 Million
  • Failure to Diagnose Breast Cancer $1 Million

What Sets Us Apart?

  • We Are THE Kent Law Firm

    We have deep roots within our community and have been proudly serving Kent, WA since 1994.

  • Proven Record of Success

    We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients over the course of 30 years in practice.

  • No Recovery, No Fee

    If we don't recover compensation or damages for you, we won't charge you any legal fees.

  • We Take Every Case Personally

    We take the time to get to know you and create a strategy tailored to fit your needs.

Tell Us About Your Case

Your Consultation is Free
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.