Truck drivers play a vital role in transporting goods across the country, but their demanding schedules can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Fatigued truck drivers in McAllen accidents pose a significant threat to road safety. When truckers operate under exhaustion, their judgment, reaction times, and focus are compromised, increasing the risk of severe collisions.

An experienced tractor-trailer wreck attorney could help injured individuals understand their legal rights and pursue compensation for their damages. With the guidance of a legal professional, you may be able to hold a negligent truck driver and their employer accountable for their actions. Call our law office today to learn more.

Common Causes of Sleep-Related Crashes

Fatigue is a leading factor in truck accidents in McAllen. Despite regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that mandate rest breaks and limit hours of service, many truckers push these boundaries to meet tight delivery deadlines.

Several factors contribute to driver fatigue, including the following:

Extended Hours and Tight Deadlines

Truckers often work extended shifts to meet delivery schedules, leaving insufficient time for rest.

Sleep Disorders

Conditions like sleep apnea can lead to chronic fatigue, impairing a driver’s ability to remain alert.

Night Driving

Truckers frequently drive at night to avoid traffic, disrupting their natural sleep-wake cycle and leading to drowsiness.

In Texas, FMCSA regulations require drivers to take breaks and adhere to maximum on-duty hours. However, violations of these rules are not uncommon. A person injured in a truck wreck could work with a seasoned personal injury attorney in McAllen to investigate the driver’s compliance with these regulations and establish negligence.

Possible Injuries and Damages

Collisions involving large trucks often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Parties injured by fatigued truck drivers in McAllen accidents may sustain injuries such as:

Beyond physical injuries, individuals may face mounting medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma. Under Texas law, injured parties may pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including the following:

  • Medical costs for past and future treatments
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

A knowledgeable lawyer could evaluate the full scope of damages to ensure their client is not left with uncompensated losses.

Liability in Fatigued Trucker Accidents

Proving liability in a McAllen truck crash involving a fatigued driver requires thorough investigation and legal knowledge. While the trucker may be directly responsible for causing the collision, their employer could also share liability under Texas law.

Employers might be held accountable if they:

  • Failed to enforce FMCSA regulations
  • Pressured drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines
  • Neglected to screen or monitor drivers for sleep disorders

Additionally, liability may extend to third parties, such as maintenance companies or manufacturers, if equipment failure contributed to the accident. A truck crash lawyer could gather evidence, including electronic logging device (ELD) records, eyewitness testimony, and police reports, to build a strong case.

Speak to a McAllen Attorney After a Fatigued Truck Driver Accident

When you are injured in a crash caused by a fatigued truck driver in McAllen, it is essential to act quickly. Trucking companies and insurers may work to minimize their liability, making it critical to have experienced legal counsel advocating for your interests.

At KGS Law Group, our dedicated lawyers understand the complexities of fatigue-related truck accident claims. We could help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward justice.