Sleep Apnea Among Truck Operators: A Growing Concern
While large commercial vehicles like 18-wheelers are essential for supporting the backbone of our economy by facilitating interstate commerce and transporting goods, their substantial size and weight can make them hazards on the road. The presence of these oversized vehicles increases the risk for other road users, especially when operators of these trucks fail to adhere to safety standards.
In a recent lawsuit filed on behalf of a client who suffered serious injuries after his vehicle was hit by an 18-wheeler, the truck driver confessed to falling asleep at the wheel, waking up only upon colliding with the victim’s vehicle. The crash’s impact was severe, leaving the client with extensive shoulder, back, left leg, and neck injuries. Tragically, these injuries have resulted in permanent disability. To make matters worse, the truck driver was operating without a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), for which he was cited by the responding police officer.
Understanding the Dangers of Sleep Apnea in Truck Drivers
Sleep apnea poses a significant danger in the trucking industry, disrupting regular sleep cycles and leading to chronic fatigue. When a truck driver suffers from this condition, repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep can result in poor quality rest, making it challenging to stay alert and focused while on the road. Given that commercial truck drivers often work long hours and cover vast distances, the compromised attention span and slowed reaction times associated with sleep apnea can be particularly hazardous. A fatigued driver behind an 18-wheeler or large commercial vehicle represents a significant risk to themselves and all other road users.
The condition exacerbates the already challenging nature of the trucking profession, which requires high concentration levels and quick decision-making capabilities. When sleep apnea goes undiagnosed or untreated, the driver is likelier to make errors like failing to notice a vehicle in their blind spot, drifting between lanes, or not reacting quickly enough to prevent a collision. Moreover, sleep apnea often coexists with other health issues such as obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, further diminishing a driver’s overall fitness for the demanding job. Therefore, trucking companies must screen for this condition as part of their hiring and ongoing health assessments to mitigate the risks associated with sleep apnea in their workforce.
Hiring Inexperienced Truck Drivers
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for trucking companies to cut corners by allowing undertrained or inexperienced drivers to operate large commercial vehicles. Such oversight can prove to be catastrophic. The intricacies and inherent dangers of heavy trucking call for strict safety protocols, including mandatory rest periods to prevent driver fatigue. Companies that skimp on such vital safety measures set the stage for disastrous outcomes. Therefore, truck drivers and their trucking companies must adhere to stringent safety standards to protect all road users.
Our Law Firm Can Assist Victims of Large Truck Crashes
Our legal team at AutoAccident.com is committed to advocating for safer highways and more stringent enforcement of safety regulations. We will continue to work diligently in the interest of public safety.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident with a large truck, our Sacramento law firm is equipped to provide you with the specialized legal assistance you need. We understand the complexities and unique challenges of trucking accidents, such as navigating federal regulations and dealing with multiple insurance companies. Our experienced team will thoroughly investigate your case to identify any negligence from the truck driver or their employing company, which can include factors like driver fatigue due to untreated sleep apnea. We will fight for your rights and help you obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
View the video below to discover how our Sacramento personal injury attorneys can assist you with your accident claim.
California Truck Accident Attorneys
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento truck accident lawyer. Injuries sustained in an accident can lead to long-term complications. If you or a family member has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, we’re here to provide the expert legal guidance you need. Call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. Since 1982, our seasoned injury attorneys have helped clients secure just compensation for their accident and wrongful death claims. We invite you to review a list of our past verdicts and settlements.
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