When an overly tired or sleep-deprived driver gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, he poses a risk to every other driver on the road. Motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are also at risk. When this risk turns into an accident, you can be left with serious injuries or with damaged or destroyed property.
Who is responsible for the financial devastation that is caused when driver fatigue leads to an accident? You may be able to file an insurance claim or lawsuit for the financial expenses and losses that come in the aftermath of the accident that an overtired driver caused.
A Birmingham driver fatigue lawyer can help you hold the at-fault driver financially responsible for the results of his or her irresponsible actions. Do not hesitate or wait to call a lawyer near you. Contact the Morris Bart law firm at (205) 380-4158 as soon as possible after an accident.
Car Accidents Caused By Driver Fatigue In Alabama
According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, there were 159,925 car accidents in 2018. That number represents an almost two-percent increase in the number of accidents that occurred in 2017. Other alarming collision statistics include:
- 47,419 injuries occurred as a result of these accidents
- 872 of these accidents resulted in the deaths of 953 vehicle occupants
- 2,781 injury accidents were attributed to driver fatigue
- 21 fatalities were attributed to driver fatigue
The injuries you suffer in a collision with another vehicle can leave you with short-term or long-term physical impairments. Your injuries can also make it impossible for you to return to work right away or to take care of yourself or your family. You might also require help to complete household tasks that can become a challenge in the aftermath of the accident.
These expenses should be covered by the driver who fell asleep at the wheel. As soon as you receive medical attention and your condition is stabilized, contact a lawyer who can help you start building a case against the driver who caused the accident. Connect with a Birmingham driver fatigue lawyer in your area when you call the Morris Bart law office at (205) 380-4158.
When Truck Drivers Fall Asleep At The Wheel
Drivers of large trucks are an important part of our world. They help us keep our stores, warehouses, and manufacturing plants full and functioning. They haul finished goods, consumer products, and raw ingredients all over the country.
Because of the heavy, and potentially hazardous cargo they carry, large truck drivers must be especially vigilant when sharing the roads with other vehicles. It is especially important that drivers of large trucks remain alert and aware while driving among other large trucks, much smaller passenger vehicles, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
In 2018, the Alabama Department of Transportation reported that truck driver fatigue was primarily responsible for as many as 210 accidents where large trucks were involved. A large truck can include a commercial delivery truck, a semi-truck, and trailer, tow truck, construction truck, or other work vehicles.
If you or a family member were injured or your property was destroyed when the driver of a large truck fell asleep at the wheel and caused a collision in Birmingham, speak with a car accident lawyer to find out how you may be eligible for compensation for your losses and damages.
For a free legal consultation with a Driver Fatigue Accident lawyer serving Birmingham, call 800-537-8185
Recognize The Signs of Driver Fatigue
As soon as you encounter a driver who appears to be drowsy behind the wheel of their car, move your vehicle off the road for your safety and the safety of everyone riding in your car. As soon as you reach a safe location, alert police to the potential hazard of a fatigued driver for the driver’s safety and for the safety of everyone on the streets and highways with him.
Be on the lookout for the following signs of driver fatigue according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- A driver who appears to be yawning excessively
- A driver who appears to be nodding off or resting their head on their chest
- A driver who is swerving on the road or in and out of their lane of travel
- A driver who appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
If you are injured in a collision with another car or with a large truck and you noticed these signs and symptoms of driver fatigue prior to the accident, share those details with your lawyer. Contact a local lawyer by calling the Morris Bart law firm at (205) 380-4158 for your free case review.
Avoid Driving When You Are Fatigued
Alertness, attention to the road, and awareness of other cars and pedestrians are all important parts of safely operating your vehicle. Pull off the road immediately if you notice any signs of driver fatigue in yourself. You can easily prevent driver fatigue by taking the following responsible actions:
- Driving only when you are well-rested
- Dividing lengthy road trips with another driver or over several days
- Removing yourself and your vehicle out of traffic at the first sign of drowsiness
- Opting for shared rides, public transportation, or rideshare after long work hours
If you struggle to stay awake while driving, you put yourself and others on the road at risk.
Birmingham Driver Fatigue Accident Lawyer Near Me 800-537-8185
A Birmingham Driver Fatigue Lawyer Will Fight For You
Driver fatigue is the cause of far too many preventable vehicle collisions. When the car accident you were involved in happened because another driver in Birmingham fell asleep at the wheel of their car, you may be able to hold them accountable.
Do not hesitate to contact a Birmingham driver fatigue lawyer to start preparing a case against the at-fault driver and their insurance company. You may be entitled to a monetary award that covers your accident-related expenses. Call the Morris Bart law firm at (205) 380-4158 to discuss the details of your case today. The call is free and there is no obligation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
