Drowsy Driving Truck Accident Lawyers in Albany, NY

Truckers Pushing the Limit: The Deadly Impact of Overworked Drivers 

Thousands of trucks roar down Albany's highways and streets every day, carrying loads and keeping commerce going. Yet a silent killer rides in its cab: a tired trucker. These are men who push to the brink of exhaustion through miles and miles without enough sleep. The consequences can be devastating when an exhausted trucker steers an 80,000-pound rig. 

The experienced Albany truck accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, understand how overwhelming these situations can be. We have the experience and compassion needed to stand by you.

Drowsy Truck Drivers: The Hidden Threat That Could Shatter Your World

It is easy to overlook the dangers of driving drowsy, but drowsy drivers can be just as dangerous as drunk drivers. Drowsiness slows down reaction times, impairs judgment, and can even cause a driver to fall asleep at the wheel. On Albany's busy I-87 or the often-congested Route 20, that momentary lapse can spell disaster.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, specifically FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations implements hours-of-service rules to help prevent fatigue; however, many drivers and trucking companies fail to adhere to these regulations. 

New York State also has strict negligence laws under its Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1180, which prevents the unsafe practice of driving. Many trucking companies and drivers bend these rules to create hazardous situations for all those on the roads. When a drowsy driver makes an error, it is innocent people who end up paying the price.

Are Trucking Companies Sacrificing Safety for Profits?

Although the driver may be the most visible party to be blamed, the trucking company often shares blame. Many companies prioritize profits over safety, with unrealistic schedules imposed on drivers who are pressured to meet tight deadlines. Under New York's Labor Law § 200, employers have a legal duty to ensure a safe working environment. Failure to do so leaves them liable for accidents caused by fatigued drivers.

In Albany, trucking companies operating on routes like I-90 or U.S. Route 9 are expected to follow state and federal regulations. If they fail to enforce hours-of-service rules or overlook signs of driver fatigue, they can be held accountable. Evidence such as electronic logging device records, driver schedules, and company policies can reveal whether a company's negligence contributed to the accident.

Demand Justice: Don't Let a Tired Truck Driver Get Away with Negligence

Drivers who knowingly exceed legal limits or ignore their own physical limits put everyone on the road at risk. Holding these drivers accountable requires a thorough investigation to uncover:

• Violations of hours-of-service regulations. Records showing excessive driving hours can prove a driver ignored mandatory rest breaks.
• Altered or falsified logbooks. Alteration of records can be a clear indication of an attempt to hide unsafe practices.
• Previous complaints or infractions for fatigue. The history of such incidents shows that there is a trend of careless behavior.

Accountability is not about punishing the driver. It is about bringing justice to the victims and preventing further tragedies resulting from similar reckless behavior.

Your Rights Matter: Don't Let Negligence Define Your Future

If you have been hurt in a truck accident resulting from a drowsy truck driver, then you have the rights under New York's Civil Practice Law and Rules § 214, which states the time frame for a statute of limitations in filing a personal injury claim. You are eligible to seek reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But fighting to enforce those rights is often like running uphill against a trucking company and its insurer, which are likely to dispute liability.

In Albany, navigating the court system often means finding your way through several parties: the trucking company, the driver, and their respective insurers. Representation by experienced counsel means that your voice will be heard, and your rights protected every step of the way.

The Truth About Insurance: Quick Settlements Could Cost You Big

Insurance adjusters often swoop in quickly after a crash, hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer. They know victims are overwhelmed and may feel pressured to settle. But taking the first offer usually means leaving money on the table—money you’ll need to cover your long-term recovery.

It’s important to remember: insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your future.  Insurance adjusters might also seem friendly, but their primary goal is to minimize payouts. To protect yourself:

• Do not provide taped statements without first speaking with an attorney. Such statements may be used against you to diminish your claim.
• Do not apologize or guess what occurred. Just provide the facts, and let the attorney determine the liability issues.
• Maintain detailed records of your injuries, treatments, and expenses. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case and the more likely you are to receive adequate compensation.

We'll Help You Regain Your Life

At Horn Wright, LLP, we're honored to assist Albany residents whose lives have been affected by trucking accidents. Our team is aware of your plight and dedicated to ensuring that you receive just compensation. Our experience, resources, and commitment will be in full force in fighting for justice against negligent truck drivers and companies. 

When you hire one of the best firms in America, you can rest assured that every aspect of your case is handled with care. We will ensure that every step of the process is handled with care, giving you the best chance at justice. Contact us today and let us help you reclaim your future after a fatigue-related truck crash.