The Dangers of Fatigued Truck Drivers on California Roads

California’s highways and interstates are among the busiest in the country, with thousands of commercial trucks transporting goods daily. While trucking is a critical component of the state’s economy, it also presents significant dangers, especially when drivers are fatigued.

Drowsy driving is a leading cause of catastrophic truck accidents, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Our Whittier personal injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP know that understanding the risks of tired truck drivers and how these accidents impact victims is crucial for ensuring safer roads and pursuing justice for those harmed.

Why Fatigued Truck Driving is a Serious Problem in California

Fatigue impairs a truck driver’s ability to react quickly, make sound decisions, and maintain vehicle control. Unlike a typical passenger car, semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, meaning even minor lapses in judgment can have devastating consequences.

When a fatigued truck driver loses focus, the potential for multi-vehicle pileups and fatal crashes increases dramatically.

Several factors contribute to truck driver fatigue, including:

• Long Hours Behind the Wheel – Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving per shift, with required breaks. However, many drivers push beyond these limits due to tight deadlines and employer pressure.
• Sleep Deprivation – Many truck drivers lack sleep, impairing their cognitive abilities and reaction times.
• Monotony on the Road – Long stretches of highway driving can lead to drowsiness, especially when combined with overnight shifts.
• Undiagnosed Sleep Disorders – Conditions like sleep apnea, common among truck drivers, can result in chronic fatigue and poor sleep quality.

The Consequences of Fatigued Truck Driving Accidents

The consequences can be devastating when a truck driver operates a vehicle while fatigued. Drowsiness slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of serious mistakes behind the wheel.

Truck accidents caused by driver fatigue often lead to catastrophic outcomes, including:

• Severe or Fatal Injuries – Due to the size disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles, those in smaller cars often suffer life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones.
• Multi-Vehicle Crashes – Fatigued drivers are prone to veering out of lanes or failing to brake in time, leading to chain-reaction collisions.
• Property Damage and Economic Losses – Road closures, vehicle damage, and medical expenses can cause financial losses for businesses and individuals.

Who is Liable for a Fatigue-Related Truck Accident in California?

Determining liability in a fatigued truck driving accident often requires an in-depth investigation.

Potentially responsible parties may include:

• The Truck Driver – Drivers who ignored mandated rest periods, falsified logbooks, or operated while drowsy may be liable.
• The Trucking Company – Employers who pressure drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules or fail to enforce HOS regulations can be held accountable.
• Third Parties – In some cases, liability may extend to companies responsible for vehicle maintenance or dispatchers who encourage unsafe driving practices.

How Our California Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

Truck drivers involved in fatigue-related accidents, whether as victims or at-fault drivers, may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if their employer contributed to unsafe working conditions. Injured motorists and passengers may also pursue personal injury claims against negligent truck drivers and their employers.

At Hanning & Sacchetto LLP, our experienced Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of truck accident cases. We help injured individuals recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a fatigued truck driver on California roads, call (562) 280-2095 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.