A Truck Accident Lawyer Investigates Possible Factors Related to Driver Behavior
Posted by Renee Taylor on December 31st, 2021
Collisions between passenger vehicles and semi-trucks often cause severe injuries to riders in the smaller automobile. Working out a reasonable compensation agreement with the organization\'s insurance company may be extremely difficult for a person without legal representation. Scheduling a complimentary consultation with a Truck Accident Lawyer is advisable.
An Overview
Law enforcement officials may have determined the truck driver was at fault. The insurer could attempt to undermine the case by accusing the plaintiff of being at least partially responsible. A Truck Accident Lawyer wants to learn whether any neglectful behavior by the trucker was involved. It\'s also possible the driver was affected by physical issues such as fatigue.
Even with the advent of electronic logbooks circumventing much of the industry\'s previous fictional record keeping, over-the-road truckers still deal with situations causing drowsiness behind the wheel. Many work irregular hours, sometimes having to drive through the night.
Obesity, Truckers, and Sleep Apnea
In addition, obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. That disorder causes repeated waking from sleep because the person stops breathing. Those episodes of waking might only last for a second, and sleep apnea sufferers commonly have no idea the problem is occurring. Some 86 percent of truck drivers are obese, according to research appearing in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.
Lawyers cannot subpoena a driver\'s medical history. Nevertheless, this attorney might find witnesses willing to confirm that the trucker is sometimes drowsy during work hours, perhaps nodding off occasionally when stopped for lunch. Someone who has been near the driver during sleep hours may verify the symptoms of loud snoring and other troubling sounds like snorting, gasping and choking.
Amphetamine Use
After a commercial vehicle accident, witnesses might testify that this driver sometimes or regularly relied on amphetamines to reduce drowsiness and stay alert. Obtaining these drugs without a prescription is not particularly difficult since so many individuals use them for medical purposes, especially to manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
When someone takes these drugs and doesn\'t have a relevant medical condition, effects like impulsivity and increased aggressiveness can occur. A semi driver might tailgate a passenger car out of frustration or try to beat a yellow light by speeding up. These effects can be factors in a collision.
Getting Started
A Truck Accident attorney typically provides service on a contingency basis, meaning the client does not pay until compensation is received. The initial consultation is free, so there is no reason to delay making contact.
