Truck drivers play a vital role in the supply chain and deliver critical goods to locations in Colorado and throughout the United States. Drivers who have long hauls to drive can become tired and drowsy from many hours on the road. In addition, working for several long days in a row could also make a truck driver feel fatigued. It is dangerous for a truck driver to drive fatigued. Statistically, fatigue is the number one reason for semi-truck crashes.

If a driver falls asleep at the wheel, the vehicle could crash into other cars or hit pedestrians. Such a scenario might be tragic with a person driving a vehicle but is catastrophic when a tractor-trailer is involved. Tractor trailer’s massive size and weight will severely damage any vehicle it comes in contact with, especially at highway speeds.

Regulators understand the dangers associated with fatigued driving. That’s why mandatory driving breaks are required. However, just because breaks are required not every driver follows these rules. Truck drivers are required to keep track logs that record their time driving and taking breaks. Trucking companies may or may not enforce mandatory breaks. Some drivers and truck companies may even falsify their driving logs.

Fatigue-related truck crashes could happen for many reasons. Even a driver who takes all required breaks may present dangers on the road. Minor drowsiness might make concentrating difficult, and poor concentration could contribute to disasters.

Those suffering from a cold might even be too exhausted to drive. Taking to the road while ill could be negligent. Of course, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol would also be negligent. Truck drivers who choose to perform their duties while fatigued may face severe civil or criminal penalties for their decisions.

If you or a loved one have been in a crash involving a Semi-Truck, contact the experienced auto accident attorneys at Clawson & Clawson, LLP. Our legal team has years of experience handling Semi-Truck collisions and will work diligently to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a no-obligation case evaluation.