Truck Driver Hours and Truck Accidents

Truck drivers have a tough job; sitting for hours on end while transporting thousands of pounds of merchandise or building materials across the country is exhausting. Unfortunately, many truck accidents are caused by driver error that is a result of fatigue. That's why federal regulations list the specific amount of time truck drivers are allowed to drive per day and per week, including long periods of mandatory breaks.

When drivers choose to ignore these regulations, whether because of pressure from their employer to get a delivery finished early, or for their own financial gain, serious or fatal truck accidents can result.

Federally mandated hours of service regulations for property-carrying truck drivers (as opposed to passenger carrying truck drivers) include: 

• 11 hours driving limit - Truck drivers cannot exceed 11 hours on the road after 10 consecutive hours off; and
• 60/70 hours limit - A truck driver cannot drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days. Additionally, the driver may only restart a 7/8 consecutive day period after taking 34 or more consecutive hours off. 

If it is found that a truck driver violated their hours of service limits and caused a truck accident, the driver and possibly the trucking company could be held liable for your truck accident injuries or for compensating your family after causing the death of a loved one.

You can learn more about truck driver negligence and how it may impact a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit by visiting our article library. 

How a Kentucky Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

In order to help you determine and obtain a fair settlement for your Kentucky truck accident injuries, it's best to retain the services of an experienced Kentucky truck accident attorney from the Law Offices of Gray and White Law. Our truck accident attorneys will give your case the personal attention it requires. Contact us today for a free case consultation - 1-800-634-8767.