A report released earlier this week showed just how widespread and dangerous driving while fatigued can be, according to The Washington Post.
The study found that 41 percent of drivers have admitted to driving while they are tired and drowsy. Tragically, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that over 1,500 Americans are killed each year as a result of sleepy drivers. Over 100,000 accidents occur annually because of fatigued driving.
A deadly Oklahoma accident occurred last year that clearly illustrates the dangers of drowsy driving. A fatigued tractor-trailer driver struck a line of cars sitting in traffic on an interstate. Ultimately, 10 people were killed and six were injured as a result of the fatal truck accident. Ironically, the traffic was backed up on the interstate because of a fender-bender that was caused by a driver who fell asleep behind the wheel.
Driving while fatigued can be particularly dangerous when large tractor-trailers are involved. Tractor-trailer operators spend the bulk of their days on the road, operating vehicles which could weigh 80,000 pounds at high rates of speed. Often, commercial truck drivers feel pressured to drive longer hours, and they may not get a good night’s sleep each night while they are on the road. In addition, many work night shifts or have irregular driving schedules.
Trucking companies are responsible for any injuries their drivers cause. If you’ve been in an accident with a tractor-trailer, compensation may be available for your injuries, damage to your vehicle, and more. Contact the Missouri truck accident attorneys at Page Law at 314-488-2433 for a free consultation of your Missouri tractor-trailer crash case.
