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Trucking Accidents

Does the law limit how many hours a truck driver can drive per day?

A: A Chicago truck accident can lead to devastating consequences. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a Chicago truck crash, you will have many questions. One of them may be if the law limits how many hours a day a truck driver can drive.

Falling asleep at the wheel is not an uncommon occurrence for truck drivers. The likelihood of falling asleep is increased between the hours of 2 and 6 a.m. There are a number of high-risk occupations where falling asleep at the wheel commonly takes place. One of those occupations is commercial vehicle drivers.

Regulations for truck drivers fall under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. They provide the regulations and rules to help make the interstates safer.

As of January 19, 2009, the rules concerning how many hours a truck driver can drive per day are as follows:

11 hours within a 14-hour, non-extendable window from the start of the workday, following at least 10 consecutive hours off during the previous calendar day.

This is known as the 11 hour rule. This rule also allows commercial motor vehicle carriers and drivers to continue to restart calculations of the weekly on-duty limits after the driver has had at least 34 consecutive hours off duty.

The impact of a fatal Chicago truck accident can be long-lasting and long-reaching. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed as a result of a Chicago truck crash, contact a Chicago accident lawyer who can help you get the compensation that you deserve.

Hiring a Chicago Wrongful Death Lawyer

Your family should be able to mourn the loss of your loved one without worrying about court documents and filing paperwork. While you adjust to life after your loss, you can take comfort in knowing you don't have to handle an Illinois wrongful death lawsuit alone.

When you have the help of a trusted Chicago wrongful death lawyer from the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. you'll get expert legal advice and guidance concerning your family's long term needs. Contact us today for a free case evaluation - 312-263-1080.

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