Philadelphia Fatigued Driving Accident Lawyers

Skilled Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers Protect The Rights Of Those Injured In Fatigued Driving Car Accidents 

Fatigued driving is a serious safety issue in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatigued — or drowsy — driving was the cause of 91,000 accidents, 50,000 injuries, and 795 fatalities in 2017. 

Those who have been injured in car accidents that are caused by fatigued driving are protected under personal injury law and may recover compensation for their injuries and other losses. At the Marrone Law Firm, LLC in Philadelphia, PA, our skilled personal injury lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims with a demonstrated track record of successfully recovering maximum compensation for their losses. 

Fatigued Driving Results In Car And Truck Accidents In Philadelphia And Beyond

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that up to 6,000 fatal crashes every year may in fact be attributed to drowsy driving. Driving while fatigued poses serious risks, and can be caused by several factors including the following:

• Lack of sleep
• Shift work
• Long hours driving
• Medications
• Untreated sleep disorders
• Alcohol consumption
• Drugs 

Fatigue has numerous impacts on a person’s ability to perform a function. In terms of driving a vehicle, fatigue results in a delay in one’s reaction time, an inability to clearly focus, impaired judgment and decision-making, reduced concentration, lack of awareness, and limited attention span.

Philadelphia Accident Lawyers Help Victims Of Fatigued Driving Commercial Truck Accidents

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that an estimated one out of 25 adult drivers report having fallen asleep while driving during the prior 30 day period. Commercial drivers who operate buses, tractor-trailers, and tow trucks are more likely to drive while fatigued. Shift workers — including those that work night shifts and long shifts — are also more likely to drive while fatigued. 

The National Safety Council reports that driving while drowsy is akin to driving while under the influence of alcohol. Driving after spending more than 20 hours without any sleep is the equivalent of driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent, which is the legal limit in the United States. 

In an effort to reduce the number of commercial truck accidents due to fatigued driving, the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and other related agencies have introduced more stringent restrictions. These restrictions limit the number of hours a truck driver is allowed to drive before being required to take a mandatory break. The goal is for commercial drivers to have standardized driving schedules and workloads in an effort to maximize safety.

Fatigued Driving Accident Claims Must Be Filed Before Legal Filing Deadline Expires

All claims that are filed in a state’s civil court system must be filed in accordance with the statute of limitations. Statutes of limitations are legal deadlines set forth by each state, and they vary based on the type of claim that is being filed. Claims for fatigued driving accidents fall under the domain of personal injury law. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the time the accident took place. 

Statutes of limitations are important legal deadlines. If an injured accident victim does not file their car accident claim prior to the end of the two-year deadline, the Pennsylvania court will refuse to hear the case. Once this happens, the injured party will have lost their opportunity to recover compensation for their accident injuries and other losses. If you or a loved one was injured in a fatigued driving accident and are wondering whether you will be able to file before the statute of limitations expires, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney regarding your accident claim.

Knowledgeable Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers Protect The Rights Of Fatigued Driving Accident Victims

Experiencing a fatigued driving accident with a car, truck, or bus may result in serious injury or fatality. In addition to emotional trauma, physical injury, and mental pain and suffering, you may face long injury recovery times and substantial medical expenses. Those who have been harmed because of someone else’s negligent actions — such as driving while fatigued — may seek protection under personal injury law to recover compensation for their injuries and other losses. 

At the Marrone Law Firm, LLC in Philadelphia, PA, our knowledgeable car accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of those injured in fatigued driving accidents. Our personal injury team has a track record of success, including obtaining several multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers to discuss your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fatigued Driving Accidents