Managing Partner
When a truck accident happens in Macon or Warner Robins, one possible cause is driver fatigue—and in many cases, this is tied to a violation of federal Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations. These rules, set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest. When they’re ignored, the results can be devastating.
At Joshua E. Palmer Law, we help truck accident victims investigate whether HOS violations played a role in their crash and use that evidence to hold negligent parties accountable. Here’s how these violations can support your personal injury claim.
Understanding Hours-of-Service Rules
The FMCSA’s Hours-of-Service regulations are designed to reduce fatigue-related crashes by ensuring drivers take adequate breaks and get rest. Common rules include:
- Maximum driving time: 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- 14-hour window: Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after starting duty.
- Mandatory breaks: At least a 30-minute break after eight cumulative hours of driving.
- Weekly limits: No more than 60 hours in seven days or 70 hours in eight days, depending on the schedule.
When trucking companies or drivers violate these limits, fatigue impairs reaction time, decision-making, and alertness—making accidents far more likely.
How Fatigue Impacts Truck Safety
Driving a large commercial truck while tired is like driving under the influence. Fatigue can cause:
- Slower reaction times
- Reduced attention span
- Impaired judgment
- Micro-sleep episodes lasting seconds
- Increased likelihood of lane drifting or missing traffic signals
In a city like Macon or Warner Robins, where busy highways like I-75 and GA-247 see heavy truck traffic, the margin for error is small.
Proving Negligence Through Hours-of-Service Violations
To win a truck accident case, you must prove the driver or company acted negligently. If an HOS violation occurred, it can be powerful evidence of negligence. Your lawyer may use:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records to track driving hours.
- Paper logbooks (if still in use) for inconsistencies.
- GPS data from the truck.
- Fuel receipts and toll records to show movement during supposed rest times.
- Surveillance footage from rest stops or weigh stations.
If the evidence shows the driver was over their allowed hours or skipped rest breaks, it strengthens your case.
The Role of the Trucking Company
Sometimes, the driver isn’t the only one responsible. Trucking companies may pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, indirectly encouraging HOS violations. In Georgia, both the driver and the employer can be held liable if company practices contributed to fatigue-related crashes.
Damages You May Recover
If fatigue caused your truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed
An experienced attorney can calculate the full scope of your losses and fight for maximum recovery.
Why Local Legal Representation Matters
A Macon or Warner Robins truck accident lawyer not only understands Georgia’s personal injury laws but is also familiar with local courts, accident trends, and the types of trucking companies operating in the region. This local insight can make a difference in negotiating with insurers or presenting your case in court.
Contact Joshua E. Palmer Law After a Truck Accident
If you suspect driver fatigue played a role in your truck accident in Macon or Warner Robins, don’t wait to get legal help. Joshua E. Palmer Law will investigate whether Hours-of-Service violations occurred and use that evidence to hold negligent parties accountable.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
