Truck drivers have a difficult job. Staying awake and alert on the road is important, especially when you’re hauling thousands of pounds of cargo. But highway hypnosis is a real phenomenon and truckers often struggle to maintain focus. Then, accidents happen. 

The Department of Transportation implemented an hours-of-service rule to help prevent truckers from driving too many hours consecutively. However, most trucking companies still pay by the mile. This incentivizes truckers to keep driving, even when they feel tired or their hours-of-service have expired for the day. 

Here’s how hours-of-service violations cause truck accidents and what a California personal injury attorney can do to help. 

Driving Limits 

The DoT currently enforces the following hours-of-service regulations for drivers: 

• Cargo truck drivers may operate their vehicles for 11 consecutive hours after 10 consecutive off-duty hours.

• Passenger-carrying drivers may operate their vehicles for 10 consecutive hours after 8 consecutive off-duty hours.
• Drivers can only be on-duty for 14 consecutive hours, including meal breaks and rest periods. 
• Drivers may not exceed 60 hours of on-duty time in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. 
• Drivers must spend 34 consecutive hours off-duty after hitting the 60 hours/7 days or 70 hours/8 days on-duty threshold. 

How Do Violations Of These Driving Limits Cause Truck Accidents? 

Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Truckers can fall asleep behind the wheel or drift across the road when they’re tired, increasing the risk of an accident. 

The faster a truck is going at the time of a crash, the more devastating the accident will be. Even though drivers may feel pressure from supervisors to make tight deadlines, they should follow DOT hours-of-service rules to help prevent drowsy driving accidents. 

When Should You Call A California Truck Accident Lawyer? 

If you or a family member were hurt by a truck driver who you think wasn’t following DOT hours-of-service rules, you may have a case. It might be possible to hold both the driver and their employee responsible for the accident that injured you so you can get financial compensation to cover medical bills and other related expenses. 

Zink & Lenzi Injury Lawyers have the experience and skills needed to provide you with comprehensive legal representation when your family needs it. Call our office today to talk about your case by dialing 530-895-1234. We charge no fees until you win your truck accident case.