Truck drivers often work grueling hours on a daily basis and are forced to spend the majority of their work day in a small, enclosed space. Federal and state laws have addressed the well-being of truck drivers to help ensure the safety of the roadways. However, these regulations do not always impact every driver, and some accidents may be caused by driver exhaustion or vehicle malfunction. If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck accident which could have been avoided by updated driver logs, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries.

Truck drivers must follow Federal Hours of Service requirements if they drive a commercial motor vehicle. These requirements include the following for “property-carrying” drivers:

• 11-hour driving limit (may drive 11 hours consecutively after 10 hours off-duty);
• 14-hour driving limit (may not drive beyond 14 hours);
• Rest Break (may drive only if 8 hours or less have passed since last off-duty);
• 60/70 hour limit (may not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days);
• Sleeper berth provision (drivers must take at least 8 consecutive hours in sleeper berth, plus separate 2 consecutive hours in sleeper berth or off duty).

Texas has similar requirements for all drivers in an effort to reduce commercial vehicle accidents and the number of injuries which occur after such accidents. However, despite the federal and state efforts to curb the number of accidents, truck accidents continue to occur on a daily basis, many which require companies to review all driver logs.

Truck accidents have become more prevalent throughout the state, not only due to the influx of commercial motor vehicles on the roadways, but also due to increased driver fatigue. Driver logs work to combat the negligent behavior or drivers, and instead require drivers to rest after a set period of time on the road. This helps curb the incidence of accidents caused by exhaustion and ensures the safety of the roadways. However, if companies do not enforce these laws and regulations, drivers will continue to drive on little sleep and may put other drivers at risk.

The injuries caused by truck accidents are often quite severe, and unfortunately could be easily prevented if the driver had followed the driver log requirements. As the victim of a truck accident caused by exhaustion, you are entitled to bring a claim for damages against the truck driver and the company. The company is responsible for the actions of their employees and should be held liable for any resulting expenses, such as medical care and lost wages.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck accident caused by the failure of a truck driver to follow state and federal laws, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in assisting clients with their truck accident claims and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact our Beaumont office today for your initial free consultation.