Driver Fatigue

Dedicated Maryland Attorneys Fighting for Victims of Truck Crashes Linked to Driver Exhaustion

Fatigue among truck drivers is a serious and preventable issue that contributes to many devastating accidents on Maryland’s roads. Overworked drivers often face impossible schedules and unrealistic demands from employers, pushing them to exceed federally mandated hours-of-service limits. This leads to slower reaction times, impaired decision-making, and an increased risk of collisions. A Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can examine the role of fatigue in your crash and hold both negligent drivers and their employers accountable.

At Foran & Foran, P.A., we understand the strain placed on truck drivers and the catastrophic consequences when safety is compromised. Our team investigates every aspect of your case, including employer practices, driver schedules, and compliance with safety regulations, to determine liability and pursue justice. Contact a Prince George County auto accident attorney for compassionate legal representation that prioritizes your recovery while addressing the systemic issues that lead to these tragedies.

Maryland Laws on Truck Driver Rest Breaks and Regulations

Fatigue is a leading contributor to truck accidents, and federal regulations aim to reduce the risks associated with overworked drivers. In Maryland, truck drivers must adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which set strict limits on driving and rest periods:

Maximum Driving Time: Drivers may drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

14-Hour Rule: Drivers cannot operate beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, even if off-duty breaks were taken during that period.

Rest Breaks: After 8 consecutive hours of driving, drivers must take a 30-minute break.

Weekly Limits: Drivers are limited to 60 hours of work over seven consecutive days or 70 hours over eight straight days, with at least 34 consecutive hours off to reset the cycle.

These rules aim to mitigate fatigue, but studies show that compliance is not always sufficient to eliminate risks. Drivers experiencing extended detention times, such as waiting to load or unload cargo, often exceed these limits to meet employer demands. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) study found that 4% of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers admitted to falsifying logs due to pressure to drive beyond legal limits, emphasizing the role of employer practices in contributing to fatigue-related crashes.

How to Prove Fatigue Caused a Truck Accident

Proving driver fatigue as the cause of a truck accident requires thorough investigation and compelling evidence. Fatigue is often invisible, but it leaves clear signs when appropriately investigated. Key pieces of evidence include:

Driver Logs: Reviewing hours-of-service records can reveal violations of federal rest regulations or patterns of overwork. Electronic logging devices (ELDs) often provide critical data.

Employer Records: Evidence of unreasonable schedules, detention times, or company policies encouraging violations can establish systemic negligence.

Eyewitness Accounts: Statements from other drivers, passengers, or nearby witnesses may indicate signs of fatigue, such as erratic driving or failure to respond to hazards.

Crash Reconstruction: Experts analyze skid marks, braking patterns, and vehicle positions to assess whether delayed reactions caused the crash.

Time of Day: Research shows that fatigue is more likely during early morning hours or overnight shifts, making the timing of the accident relevant to proving fatigue.

Working with a Maryland attorney ensures that all relevant evidence is thoroughly analyzed to establish liability and build a strong claim. Their understanding of state-specific laws and trucking regulations can be pivotal in proving the role of driver fatigue in your accident.

The Impact of Employer Practices on Driver Fatigue

Employers play a significant role in preventing or exacerbating driver fatigue. While some companies implement systems to monitor hours and reduce detention times, others prioritize delivery schedules over safety. The GAO study revealed that approximately 12% of deliveries experience detention times ranging from two to eight hours or more. These delays push drivers to work longer hours, often violating rest requirements to meet deadlines and creating the conditions for negligent entrustment.

Poorly structured duty schedules also contribute to fatigue. Studies show that incompatible schedules, such as early morning or overnight shifts, disrupt circadian rhythms, increasing sleepiness and reducing reaction times. Employers who fail to account for these risks can share liability for crashes resulting from fatigued driving. A Maryland accident lawyer can investigate employer practices, identify negligent entrustment, and help ensure all liable parties are held accountable for their role in the crash.

What Happens if the Truck Driver Is From Another State?

Maryland laws apply to all truck drivers operating within the state, regardless of where they are licensed. Federal regulations, such as HOS requirements, create uniform standards across state lines. However, drivers from other states may face additional challenges if employer practices in their home state encourage unsafe behaviors.

Out-of-state drivers involved in commercial truck accidents often work for companies with policies prioritizing delivery schedules over driver well-being. In these cases, liability may extend to the employer for pressuring drivers to violate federal HOS limits or for failing to ensure their drivers comply with Maryland-specific traffic laws. A Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can help you hold the driver and their employer accountable for the unsafe practices that led to your accident, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Did Driver Fatigue Lead to Your Truck Accident Injuries?
Fatigue impairs truck drivers' reaction times and decision-making, creating life-threatening conditions for others on the road. If driver exhaustion caused your injuries, Foran & Foran, P.A.’s experienced Prince George’s County truck accident attorneys are ready to help. The firm’s contingent fee policy ensures you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered. Call 301-441-2022 or connect through the secure online form to explore your legal options.