Truck driving is a stressful job, one that is physically and mentally demanding, with long hours and tough schedules. Not many people may be aware of this, but truck driving is one of the most dangerous jobs in Texas. Each day, truck drivers face the risk of a devastating trucking accident or other on-the-job injuries. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), reports that vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for Texas truck drivers.
Common Injuries Texas Truck Drivers Suffer
Statistics provided by the CDC show that truck drivers experience a wide range of non-fatal injuries. Here are the most common injuries Texas truck drivers suffer:
• Broken/fractured bones
• Concussions
• Repetitive motion disorders (like carpal tunnel disease)
• Back/spinal cord injuries
• Strains/sprains
• Burns
Common Causes of Texas Truck Accidents
• Fatigued truck drivers
• Overloaded/improperly loaded trucks
• Inexperienced/improperly trained truck drivers
• Defective truck equipment or equipment malfunction (like improperly maintained safety equipment, faulty breaks, or blown out tires)
• Hazardous road conditions
• Bad weather conditions
Hours of Service Regulations for Truck Drivers
Trucking companies have a legal duty to keep drivers and others vehicles safe on the road. One way this is done by setting service deadlines for truck drivers. Here are the hours of service rules the FMCSA has adopted for truck drivers:
• 11-hour driving limit: drivers may stay on the road a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off.
• 14-hour limit: drivers may not drive beyond 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty.
• Rest breaks: drivers may get back on the road only if 8 hours or less have passed since end of driver’s last off-duty, or sleeper berth period of at least 30 minutes.
Contact Us Today
Brown Trial Firm, PLLC has helped many truckers evaluated their potential claims. You can reach us at (866) 393-2611.