How Many Accidents Are Caused by Truck Driver Fatigue?

Truck driver fatigue is a major factor in roadway accidents, often leading to devastating consequences.

Commercial truck drivers often spend long hours behind the wheel, sometimes pushing their limits to meet tight deadlines. When they become fatigued, reaction times slow, concentration decreases, and the risk of a serious crash gets worse.

Fatigue-Related Truck Accidents

Fatigue contributes to a significant number of truck accidents each year. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of crashes involving large trucks. Studies show that driver fatigue plays a role in at least 13% of all truck accidents in the US.

However, the actual number may be higher since fatigue is often underreported or mistaken for other contributing factors.

When truck drivers become drowsy behind the wheel, they are more likely to:

• Drift out of their lane
• Fail to recognize traffic slowdowns
• Misjudge distances between vehicles
• React too slowly to sudden hazards

Fatigue-related crashes tend to be especially severe because drowsy drivers may not take evasive action before impact, increasing the likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities.

Why Are Truck Drivers Prone to Fatigue?

Several factors contribute to truck driver fatigue, many of which stem from the demands of the trucking industry.

Long Hours and Tight Schedules

Truck drivers often work extended shifts to meet delivery deadlines. Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving in a 14-hour shift, which must be followed by a required rest period.

Unfortunately, some drivers exceed these limits, often due to employer pressure, financial incentives, or personal habits.

Long hours on the road can wear down even the most experienced drivers.

Irregular Sleep Patterns

Many truck drivers don’t follow a regular sleep schedule. Deliveries often require driving late at night or in the early morning hours, disrupting their body’s natural sleep cycle.

Even when drivers take breaks, poor sleeping conditions in rest areas or sleeper cabs may prevent them from getting quality rest.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Sleep disorders like sleep apnea are common among truck drivers, making it difficult to get restorative rest. Additionally, certain medications, including over-the-counter cold medicine and prescription pain relievers, can cause drowsiness and impair reaction times.

The Consequences of Truck Driver Fatigue

The effects of fatigue-related truck accidents go beyond just the drivers. Passenger vehicles that are involved in truck crashes often suffer the most damage due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. In fact, the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that, in 2022, 70% of vehicle occupants who were killed in two-vehicle crashes involving a large truck were occupants of the other vehicle.

Fatalities and Severe Injuries

Truck accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities. When a drowsy driver fails to react in time, high-impact crashes can occur, leading to catastrophic outcomes for those involved.

Financial and Legal Ramifications

Trucking companies and drivers may face liability lawsuits if fatigue is found to be a contributing factor in a crash. Employers who encourage unrealistic schedules or fail to enforce rest periods can be held accountable for negligence. Victims of fatigue-related truck accidents often seek out a Reno truck accident lawyer to help them get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Damage to the Trucking Industry’s Reputation

These accidents hurt the reputation of the trucking industry as well, increasing levels of scrutiny from regulators that can result in stricter laws, increased insurance rates, and added safety requirements for trucking companies.

How to Reduce Truck Driver Fatigue

Addressing truck driver fatigue requires action from drivers, companies, and trucking regulatory agencies.

• Enforcing Hours of Service Regulations – Strict adherence to FMCSA regulations ensures drivers get the necessary rest between shifts.
• Providing Better Rest Facilities – Well-maintained rest areas with safe, comfortable sleeping conditions so that drivers can get quality sleep.
• Educating Drivers on Sleep Health – Training programs that focus on recognizing fatigue symptoms and the importance of rest can encourage safer driving habits.
• Using Fatigue-Detection Technology – Installation of in-cab monitoring systems that detect signs of drowsiness and can notify drivers that it’s time to take a sleep break.

At the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp, we know from experience that driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents, with thousands of crashes and many fatalities linked to drowsy driving every year. To prevent these accidents, the industry must commit to enforcing safety regulations, providing better working conditions, and increasing awareness of the dangers of driving while tired.

By prioritizing rest and responsible scheduling, trucking companies and drivers can reduce fatigue-related crashes and make the roads safer for everyone.