According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost three percent of the fatal car crashes were caused by fatigue. Drowsy driving was estimated to be involved in about two percent of car crashes. Because most drivers do not admit to fatigued or drowsy driving, these estimates are probably much lower than the actual number of accidents caused by fatigued drivers. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) state that commercial drivers, shift workers, drivers with sleep disorders, and drivers who are taking sedating medications are more likely to drive drowsy.
Fatigue and exhaustion are not only problems in car accidents. Employees suffering from fatigue or exhaustion have slower reaction times, are less attentive, do not make clear decisions, and have difficulty remembering tasks. Employees who are fatigued or exhausted can make mistakes that result in serious workplace accidents. This is a serious problem with workers on oil rigs who work long hours performing heavy manual labor.
At the Law Offices of Matt & Allen in Lafayette, Louisiana, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to providing our clients with the compassionate, experienced, legal representation they need as they struggle to recover from injuries sustained in an accident caused by fatigue or exhaustion. We understand that you are dealing with an enormous amount of stress from the physical and financial damages you suffered in the accident. Our attorneys provide the support you need as we aggressively fight to ensure you receive a fair and just settlement for your accident claim.
Proving Liability in Accidents Caused by Fatigue or Exhaustion
There is no way to conclusively measure whether a person is fatigued or exhausted when an accident occurs. However, we can examine the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine whether fatigue was a factor. Through discovery and depositions we can figure out where the other driver was coming from; where he was going to; what he was doing during the days before the collision.
We conduct thorough investigations into each accident to obtain evidence to prove the defendant is liable. Our personal injury lawyers are experienced in searching for and identifying key evidence that proves the negligent party is liable for your injuries. Examples of evidence in an accident case involving fatigue or exhaustion may include:
- Witness statements regarding the person’s actions immediately prior to the accident
- Medical records showing the person is taking medications that cause fatigue
- A truck driver’s log book showing he drove more hours than the law permits
- Statements made by the person who caused the accident
- Accident reports filed by the police or other officials
- Testimony provided by an accident reconstructionist proving liability
- The time of day and the driver’s work schedule
- The number of miles driven on a trip
- The number of hours an employee has worked with no breaks or the number of hours worked in a specific day or week
The circumstances of the accident will determine the type of evidence available to prove liability. Our team of legal professionals and industry experts work diligently to identify, gather, and preserve the evidence we need to hold the person responsible for your injuries accountable for their actions.
Experienced Lafayette, Louisiana Personal Injury Lawyers at Your Side
If you or a family member has suffered injuries due to an accident caused by fatigue or exhaustion, contact the accident attorneys of the Law Offices of Matt & Allen. Accidents caused by persons who are working or driving while fatigued or exhausted often hinge on proving liability. Our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and build a strong case to prove liability and maximize the compensation you receive for your damages.
