When commercial drivers go without sleep and get behind the wheel of a massive truck, they put themselves and others in harm’s way. Driving while fatigued can affect a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to stay awake, leading to devastating accidents.
If a fatigued truck driver has injured you or a loved one, Connecticut Trial Firm is here to help you get justice. Our Connecticut truck accident lawyers regularly handle these cases and are committed to holding negligent truckers responsible for the harm they cause.
One of our fatigued truck driver accident lawyers in Connecticut could help you pursue the financial compensation you need after a life-altering crash. Get started now with a free, no-obligation consultation.
Recoverable Damages in a Connecticut Truck Accident Case
After a Connecticut truck accident, victims may be able to recover various damages to compensate them for their losses.
Here are the main damage categories:
- Economic damages: These damages cover quantifiable financial losses such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and future medical costs.
- Non-economic damages: These damages compensate for non-monetary losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Wrongful death damages: When an accident results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship through a wrongful death claim.
A Connecticut personal injury lawyer from our firm will leave no stone unturned when evaluating your damages and pursuing a fair settlement or court award.
For a free legal consultation with a truck accident lawyer serving Connecticut, call 860-471-8333
Federal Rest Regulations for Commercial Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees labor standards for interstate truckers, imposing comprehensive guidelines on working hours. Connecticut truckers are subject to these standards as the state integrates federal mandates, extending to intrastate transportation.
Under FMCSA directives, commercial drivers are capped at 70 working hours over an eight-day period. Following eight consecutive driving hours, a mandatory 30-minute break is mandated. Additionally, truckers are limited to a maximum of 14 driving hours per day, requiring a 10-hour rest period after a full 14-hour stint.
Federal statutes require drivers to maintain meticulous logs documenting driving, breaks, and rest periods. Also, many commercial vehicles are furnished with black box recorders, offering insights into vehicle operations. If trucker fatigue is suspected in an accident, your lawyer can subpoena the applicable records to use as evidence in your case.
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Key Elements of Negligence in a Truck Accident Claim
In a truck accident case, the plaintiff and their legal representatives bear the burden of proof, necessitating the establishment of four fundamental legal components.
The following elements are crucial in demonstrating negligence:
- Duty of care: The defendant, typically the truck driver, is obligated to uphold a duty of care towards others on the road. For instance, drivers must follow hours of service regulations to prevent harm to others.
- Breach of duty: The defendant’s failure to fulfill their duty of care constitutes a breach, which can manifest through various actions, including hours of service violations, reckless driving, or failure to inspect and maintain the truck properly.
- Causation: Establishing a direct causal link between the defendant’s breach of duty and the plaintiff’s injuries or damages is essential. This connection demonstrates that the defendant’s actions or negligence directly harmed the plaintiff.
- Damages: The plaintiff must have incurred quantifiable damages as a result of the defendant’s negligence. These damages can encompass various losses, including medical expenses, lost income, and property damage.
After an accident involving bodily injury, seeking legal representation from an experienced attorney is paramount. Our team at CTF can assist you in gathering evidence and building a compelling case for financial compensation. If the insurance company refuses to pay you what is right, your attorney will take your case to court.
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Connecticut’s Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a truck accident is generally two years from the accident date, as outlined in Gen. Stat. Sec. 52-584. This time limit applies to people seeking monetary damages for injuries or property damage resulting from the collision.
It’s important to be aware of the impending deadline, as failing to file a lawsuit within the allowable time frame may result in the forfeiture of their right to pursue compensation.
Certain exceptions could alter the deadline, and a fatigued truck driver accident lawyer in Connecticut can let you know exactly how much time you have left to file.
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Consult With a Connecticut Lawyer Regarding Your Fatigued Trucker Accident
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a truck accident stemming from another party’s negligence, trust Connecticut Trial Firm to represent your interests and pursue an appropriate settlement or court award on your behalf.
Our team knows how to negotiate with trucking companies and their insurers and provides robust courtroom representation when necessary. Our Connecticut fatigued truck driver accident lawyer has a deep knowledge of the legal issues surrounding commercial vehicle collisions and is ready to fight for you.
Since our firm operates on a contingency basis, you pay nothing upfront for our services. We only collect fees when we secure your settlement or court award. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
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