Seeking Justice After Fatal Collisions
When a commercial truck driver falls asleep at the wheel or operates while dangerously fatigued, the consequences are often catastrophic. These massive vehicles—weighing up to 80,000 pounds—become deadly forces that can instantly devastate families forever. If your loved one was killed in an accident caused by a fatigued truck driver, you may be entitled to significant compensation through a wrongful death claim. At Dermer Law, we combine industry knowledge with legal expertise to help grieving families pursue justice against negligent trucking companies and drivers. Our commitment to “Clients. Not Cases.” means we provide compassionate support while fighting determinedly to hold all responsible parties accountable for these preventable tragedies.
Federal regulations impose strict limits on driving hours and require adequate rest periods for commercial truck drivers specifically to prevent fatigue-related accidents. When trucking companies pressure drivers to violate these rules or drivers choose to ignore them, they put everyone on the road at risk and can be held liable for the fatal consequences.
Common Causes of Truck Driver Fatigue Accidents
Despite clear regulations, driver fatigue remains a leading cause of commercial truck accidents. Contributing factors include:
Hours of Service Violations
Exceeding federal limits on driving time (11 hours maximum after 10 consecutive hours off duty) or total on-duty time.
Falsified Logbooks
Drivers manipulating their records to conceal excessive driving hours, often under pressure from employers.
Unrealistic Delivery Schedules
Trucking companies imposing tight deadlines that cannot reasonably be met without violating rest requirements
Inadequate Sleep
Poor sleeping conditions in truck cabins or drivers using off-duty time for personal activities instead of rest.
Night Driving
Operating during natural sleep hours when the body’s circadian rhythm promotes drowsiness.
Sleep Disorders
Undiagnosed or untreated conditions like sleep apnea that prevent restorative rest.Improper use of physical restraints or unnecessary sedative medications leading to death.
Medication Effects
Over-the-counter or prescription drugs that cause drowsiness or impair alertness.
Long, Monotonous Routes
Highway hypnosis and reduced vigilance on straight, unchanging roadways.
Proving Liability in a Truck Driver Fatigue Accident Case
Establishing fatigue as a factor in a truck accident requires thorough investigation and specific evidence. At Dermer Law, we help families prove liability by:
Examining Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
Reviewing mandated electronic records that track driving hours.
Analyzing Driver Logbooks
Comparing paper logs with other evidence like fuel receipts, toll records, and delivery confirmations to identify discrepancies.
Obtaining Black Box Data
Securing truck engine computer data that shows speed, braking patterns, and other operational information.
Reviewing Communication Records
Examining dispatcher communications that may reveal pressure to meet unrealistic schedules.
Investigating Company Policies
Uncovering evidence of systemic violations or incentive programs that encourage unsafe practices.
Driver History Investigation
Reviewing the driver’s record for previous violations or accidents related to fatigue.
Responsible Parties in Truck Driver Fatigue Cases
Unlike typical car accidents, truck fatigue cases often involve multiple liable parties:
Truck Driver
The individual operator who chose to drive while dangerously tired.
Trucking Company
The employer who may have encouraged rule violations, set unreasonable schedules, or failed to properly supervise drivers.
Shipping Companies
Businesses that imposed unrealistic delivery deadlines knowing they could only be met by violating hours-of-service rules.
Truck Owners
When different from the operating company, those responsible for maintaining the vehicle are.
At Dermer Law, we identify all potentially responsible parties to maximize the compensation available to your family.
Compensation for Truck Driver Fatigue Wrongful Death Claims
The catastrophic nature of commercial truck accidents often leads to substantial compensation. Families may be entitled to recover:
Medical Expenses
Costs of emergency care and treatment before death.
Funeral and Burial Costs
Expenses related to laying your loved one to rest.
Loss of Income
Compensation for the deceased’s future earnings and benefits that would have supported the family.
Loss of Companionship
Damages for the loss of love, guidance, and support that the deceased would have provided.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress your loved one experienced before death.
Punitive Damages
Additional compensation in cases of egregious neglect or intentional rule violations.
Steps to Take After a Fatal Truck Accident
If you've lost a loved one in a suspected truck driver fatigue accident, taking prompt action is critical:
Preserve Evidence
Request that the truck and its data systems be preserved immediately through legal channels.
Gather Documentation
Collect the police accident report, witness information, and any available photos or videos.
Avoid Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often quickly offer settlements that dramatically undervalue your claim.
Limit Communications
Do not give statements to the trucking company’s insurance representatives without legal counsel.
Act Quickly
Evidence such as electronic logs and driver communication records can disappear if not legally protected.
Consult an Attorney
Speak with an experienced truck accident attorney who understands the complex federal regulations governing commercial vehicles
Contact Dermer Law Today
At Dermer Law, we understand the devastating impact of losing a loved one in a truck accident. Our team approaches each case with meticulous attention to detail, conducting thorough investigations to uncover evidence of driver fatigue and rule violations. We work with accident reconstruction specialists, industry experts, and safety analysts to build compelling cases.
We maintain forthright communication throughout the legal process, ensuring you always understand your options and the status of your claim. We believe in accountability—both for trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety and in our commitment to transparent representation.
If you’ve lost a family member in an accident involving a commercial truck, don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact Dermer Law today for a free, compassionate consultation. We’re here to fight for the justice your loved one deserves while you focus on healing from your loss.
Call us now to schedule your free case evaluation!
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