When truck drivers drive while fatigued, they can place themselves and others in grave danger. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driver fatigue causes around 100,000 crashes each year, leading to 71,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths.

Truck drivers are required to stop and rest, limiting their hours of driving. Unfortunately, not all truck drivers adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. Sometimes, truck drivers are pushed to the limits by their employers.

If you have been injured because of a fatigued truck driver, we are here to help. Metro Atlanta Law Group represents injured victims who have been harmed because of driver negligence. We are here to answer your questions and guide you on the necessary steps towards filing a claim.

Truck Driver Fatigue Can Be Deadly

Any fatigued driver poses a risk to others on the road, but tired truck drivers are even more dangerous for the following reasons.

An eighteen-wheeler, when fully loaded, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds.
Some eighteen-wheelers carry dangerous loads, such as combustible fuels.
Extra care must be taken when operating a large semi-truck. A fatigued truck driver may not be able to adhere to all safety protocols.

What Does the Law Say About Fatigued Truck Drivers?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has put forth regulations that must be followed by all truck drivers. These regulations include the following.

Truck drivers are limited in the number of hours they can drive without taking a break.
Passenger vehicles must be attached to the truck securely.
Truck drivers are limited to the lanes they can travel, especially during periods of inclement weather.

Although these strict regulations have been put in place by the FMCSA, an alarming number of accidents continue to occur in the trucking industry. Around 13% of all truck drivers report being overly fatigued when an accident occurs.

Common Reasons for Truck Driver Fatigue Crashes

Driving for extended hours
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia
Drug use, including prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit
Pressure from employers to keep driving

If you have become the victim of a truck driver fatigue crash, call Metro Atlanta Law Group right away. We offer free consultation appointments for a case assessment. If we take your case and do not win, you do not owe anything.

How Often Do Truck Driver Fatigue Accidents Happen in Atlanta?

Hundreds of truck driver fatigue accidents happen each year in Atlanta. According to the latest statistics, I-20 in Atlanta, at mile marker 44, is the most dangerous road for accidents. There are also several areas along I-75 and I-85 that are known for serious accidents.

Accidents can happen anywhere. Being aware of the most dangerous roadways in Atlanta will help to ensure you are prepared to drive proactively and stay safe.

If at all possible, avoid the following intersections as much as you can due to their dangers.

Memorial Drive and North Hairston Road in Stone Mountain
Cobb Place Blvd. and Ernest Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw
East Park Place and Stone Mountain Highway in Stone Mountain
Jimmy Carter Blvd. and Peachtree Industrial Blvd. in Norcross.

Georgia Rules & Regulations Seek to Prevent Truck Driver Fatigue Crashes

Federal laws have been implemented by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and these remain in effect in all states, including Georgia.

1. Truck drivers are only permitted to work 14 hours a day.
2. Of the 14 hours, individuals can only drive eleven.
3. Truck drivers must be off-duty for at least 10 hours before driving another shift.

Drivers in Georgia should stay alert over the next few months. Truck driver shortages are pushing drivers to go beyond the limitations set forth by the FMCSA. If a truck driver is driving unsafely, report them right away!

How Long Do Accident Victims Have to File a Claim in Georgia?

As soon as possible after an accident, you need to seek legal help. You have a limited time to file a claim. The state of Georgia requires accident victims to file their claim no later than two years from the date of their accident.

If you wait too long to get legal help, the statute of limitations could pass. If the statute of limitations passes, the court could deny any case and prevent a victim from seeking compensation.

How Can Truck Driver Fatigue Attorneys Help Me?

You’ve been injured in a serious truck accident caused by a fatigued driver. Your injuries have led to hospital stays and even surgery. How will you pick up the broken pieces of your life?

Metro Atlanta Law Group will help you by first investigating the cause of your accident. We will work to prove the driver was negligent by gathering evidence.

We will help you negotiate the largest settlement allowed under the law. Our attorneys will fight for your rights and hold the aggressive insurance company responsible for paying what is owed.

Our track record is a solid one that shows our great success in helping clients like you. You do not have to fight your case alone. It is your right to receive fair compensation for the injuries and damages you suffered.

Schedule a Free Consultation Appointment Today

Metro Atlanta Law Group understands the fear and uncertainty that result from serious truck accidents. The immense weight of the vehicle often causes catastrophic injuries and damages.

We offer free case assessments to injured truck accident victims in Atlanta. We will become your advocate through the entire process.

Should the insurance company choose not to do the right thing and settle fairly, we will file a claim on your behalf. Through the court process and beyond, we will work to ensure you get a fair outcome.

Our legal team is standing by right now to take your call. It is our honor to represent you and fight for your best interests.