Considering the nature and demand of their work in the business and commercial industries, truckers put in a lot of hours each week. And while every driver in Kane County, Illinois, probably understands that driving without adequate sleep can affect their attentiveness and decision-making while driving, this fact also applies to truckers. Unfortunately, however, when truck drivers are fatigued their risk of causing a truck accident may be greater.
The deadly truck accident that critically injured comedian Tracy Morgan is a tragic reminder for Illinois residents regarding the dangers of truck driver fatigue. According to the prosecutor investigating this truck accident case, the 35-year-old driver of the tractor-trailer had not slept for more than 24 hours before the collision occurred. According to a report, the Wal-Mart truck driver apparently failed to slow for traffic and veered off at the last minute to avoid hitting other motorists. The truck then hit the back of the limousine bus carrying several passengers, including the 45-year-old Morgan. The truck driver is facing charges of vehicular homicide and four counts of assault by auto.
The comedian, known for his roles on “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live,” was seriously injured in the crash. He reportedly sustained a broken femur, a broken nose and several broken ribs. He is now in stable condition after undergoing surgery. Unfortunately, a 62-year-old man riding in the limo bus with Morgan died in the truck accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident along with local and state police.
Federal trucking regulations are designed to prevent accidents caused by truck driver fatigue. Failing to comply with these regulations may lead to potential liability for drivers and the trucking companies that employ them.
Source: Yahoo News, “Prosecutor: Trucker in Morgan crash hadn’t slept,” David Porter, June 9, 2014
