Fisher & Talwar Santa Ana Truck Accident Attorneys

Truck accidents can bring about life-changing consequences, especially when they involve fatigued drivers. Fatigue negatively impacts reaction time, decision-making, and overall safety, making it a significant factor in serious accidents with large commercial trucks. 

At Fisher & Talwar, our Santa Ana truck accident attorneys have extensive expertise in cases where driver fatigue plays a role. We are committed to helping victims secure compensation for their injuries and losses.

Fatigue and Its Role in Truck Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces Hours of Service (HOS) regulations aimed at reducing fatigue-related crashes. Unfortunately, violations are still common and often lead to severe consequences. The main HOS rules include:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive no more than 11 hours following a rest period of at least 10 hours.
• 14-Hour Workday Limit: After starting their shift, drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour, even with breaks.
• 30-Minute Break Rule: After 8 hours of cumulative driving, drivers must take a 30-minute break.
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Cap: A maximum of 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days applies, depending on the company’s schedule.

Failure to comply with these rules often leads to accidents with tragic outcomes. Those responsible for such violations can face legal liability and penalties.

Uncovering Driver Fatigue in Santa Ana Truck Accident Cases

Proving driver fatigue contributed to an accident demands detailed investigation and specialized knowledge. Our lawyers in Santa Ana use advanced tools and resources to build strong cases:

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

• Automatically track driving hours, breaks, and potential HOS violations.
• Provide clear, verifiable records that can be aligned with the time of the crash.

Driver Logs and Manual Records

• Though less reliable, paper logs can still show patterns of overwork or rule-breaking.

GPS and Telematics Systems

• Track vehicle movements and pinpoint driving patterns, offering supplementary evidence.

By combining these data sources, we work to demonstrate that fatigue was a contributing factor to your accident.

Parties That May Be Liable in Fatigue-Related Truck Accidents

Responsibility for a truck accident due to driver fatigue may extend beyond the driver. Our attorneys identify all potentially liable parties, including:

• Truck Drivers: Drivers who exceed HOS limits or ignore fatigue risks bear direct responsibility.
• Trucking Companies: Employers who pressure drivers to violate safety rules or fail to enforce regulations can also be held accountable.
• Third Parties: Logistics firms or dispatchers imposing unrealistic schedules may share liability.

Compensation Available for Victims of Truck Accidents Involving Fatigue

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by driver fatigue, you could be eligible for:

• Medical Expenses: Covers costs such as emergency care, surgeries, and physical therapy.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Reimbursement for missed work and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Payment for vehicle repairs or replacements.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of severe negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize wrongdoing.

Our attorneys will meticulously calculate your losses to ensure you receive fair and comprehensive compensation.

Why Choose Fisher & Talwar as Your Truck Accident Lawyer in Santa Ana?

Our team stands out for its dedication and ability to secure justice for victims of fatigue-related accidents. Here’s why:

• Deep Understanding of Trucking Laws: We are well-versed in federal and California-specific regulations.
• Thorough Investigations: From ELD data to GPS records, we gather robust evidence to support your case.
• Tenacious Representation: We negotiate assertively with insurers and are ready to go to trial if necessary.
• Empathetic Support: We prioritize your needs and guide you through the process with compassion.

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