Drivers in Illinois must make sure that they are protecting themselves from the danger of drowsy truck drivers. Because a commercial truck is so much larger than a passenger car, it not only takes longer to stop but can also cause much more damage, even at slow speeds. The following includes some important information about drowsy truck drivers.
What causes truck driver fatigue?
One of the main causes for motor vehicle accidents involving a large truck is a drowsy driver. Why is this such a widespread problem? Truck drivers are paid for the number of miles they drive and not the hours. Thus, it pushes some drivers to drive a little more for that extra bump in their paycheck. Truck companies are ordered by federal and state governments to force their drivers to stop at certain points so that they can eat and rest. Unfortunately, not all companies adhere to these orders. In fact, truck drivers have reported being threatened to drive longer to boost company profits.
What to do after an accident
If you ever find yourself involved in an accident with a truck driver, it is important to do the following. First, always ensure that everyone is safe. Once that is confirmed, you may begin taking pictures and videos of the scene. Obtaining witness statements is also recommended as you cannot always rely on the police report. In addition, you should never turn down medical attention. The fact is that you do not know if you’re injured or not; adrenaline may still be present within your body, so less pain would appear. Of course, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
In the event of an accident with a commercial truck, it is imperative that you seek the services of an attorney. A personal injury attorney may provide advice for your particular case and potentially save you from making costly legal mistakes.