Unrealistic Schedules and Truck Accidents Lawyer in West Houston

Tired Driver Crashes

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations for many hours truck drivers can work. Unfortunately, big companies sometimes disregard these regulations. This attempt to meet deadlines can lead to fatal results.

If you have been involved in a big rig accident, it may be due to a commercial truck company’s unrealistic schedule. Here’s how you can determine if you have a case and whether you should hire an attorney to get the compensation you deserve.

Service Hour Regulations for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers must follow the federal regulations limiting service hours for safe driving. The FMCSA permits a maximum of 14 hours on duty and includes up to 11 driving hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty. 

The FMCSA also accounts for 30-minute driving breaks after 8 cumulative hours of driving. This is to ensure drivers can remain focused while at the wheel. 

What Happens When Commercial Truck Companies Ignore Regulations?

Working under an unrealistic schedule causes drivers to surpass federal safety standards and take higher risks while on the road. Extended work hours can lead drivers to operate 18-wheelers past their limits, leading to big truck wrecks and trauma for all involved. 

Speeding, aggressive behavior, and falling asleep while driving are all common traits from working under unrealistic schedules. 

What Injuries Result From These Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents are more dangerous than standard automobile accidents and can cause far more damage including death, if you lost a family member in a truck accident you need to contact a West Houston wrongful death lawyer. Depending on the speed and point of impact, victims may experience a range of injuries, including: 

• Sprains
• Cuts
• Bruises
• Head injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burns
• Wrongful death

Determining How Unrealistic Schedules Cause 18-Wheeler Accidents

At first, it may seem difficult to know if an unrealistic schedule caused a truck crash. However, an in-depth investigation can be performed to determine if this is the case. 

During the investigation, law enforcement officers will evaluate the truck’s EMC data. This data tracks the time and speeds at which the vehicle has been operating. 

It will then be combined with the vehicle’s recorded beginning, end, and delivery times. This data confirms whether the driving schedule was unrealistic and unlawful. 

If the commercial truck company were operating under a direct violation of the FMCSA guidelines, it would be considered negligent in the case. 

West Houston Bad Schedule Truck Accident Attorney

Call an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers in West Houston

Trucking companies are obligated to provide realistic driving schedules. This is for the safety of all motorists. When these schedule protocols are ignored, it can lead to a dangerous truck wreck. 

If you or your family have been injured in a truck crash, it is important to learn how it was caused. This will help you understand your rights.

The Stephens Law Firm will investigate whether an unrealistic schedule caused your big rig accident and hold the driving company accountable. You shouldn’t be responsible for a big truck company’s negligence. We will help you recover fair compensation for any injuries, damages, or lost wages you may have experienced due to the accident.