How a Jackson Truck Accident Attorney Proves Driver Fatigue in Injury Claims

Truck accidents involving 18-wheelers often result in serious injuries or fatalities. One of the most overlooked causes? Truck driver fatigue. When a driver is pushed beyond legal limits or skips mandatory rest breaks, the consequences can be devastating.

If you or someone you love was injured in a collision with a commercial truck in Mississippi, a Jackson truck accident attorney can help you investigate the cause of the crash, gather critical evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve

What Is Truck Driver Fatigue?

Truck driver fatigue is a form of impairment caused by lack of adequate rest. It can reduce alertness, impair judgment, and delay reaction times — similar to alcohol intoxication.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), fatigue contributes to roughly 13% of all large truck crashes in the U.S. FMCSA Large Truck Crash Causation Study.

Why Proving Driver Fatigue Matters in Truck Accident Claims

Fatigue isn’t as easy to prove as something like drunk driving. There’s no breath test for exhaustion. Instead, you need solid evidence — and an attorney who knows how to get it.

A knowledgeable Jackson truck accident lawyer can uncover this evidence, even when trucking companies attempt to cover their tracks.

How a Jackson Truck Accident Attorney Proves Fatigue

1. Hours-of-Service Logs and ELD Data

Federal law limits how many hours a truck driver can operate without rest. These rules are tracked through electronic logging devices (ELDs). If the logs show a violation — like skipping a break or exceeding drive-time limits — this is critical evidence of fatigue.

Learn more about FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations.

2. Black Box (EDR) Data

Most commercial trucks are equipped with event data recorders that track engine hours, speed, braking, and more. This data can show if a driver was behind the wheel for an unsafe period of time before the crash.

3. Dispatch and Employer Communications

Sometimes, it’s not just the driver. Trucking companies may pressure drivers to meet unreasonable schedules. Internal emails, dispatch logs, and delivery records can reveal if a company encouraged or ignored fatigue risks.

4. Eyewitness Accounts and Police Reports

Witnesses may report that the truck was swerving or the driver looked disoriented. Police officers might note signs of drowsiness in the accident report. This can help support your claim of fatigue-related negligence.

5. Dashcam or Surveillance Footage

Traffic or dashcam footage may show the driver drifting between lanes, missing brake cues, or failing to respond to traffic — all signs of fatigue.

6. Expert Witnesses

Your attorney may call in sleep experts, accident reconstructionists, or trucking safety specialists to help explain how fatigue played a role in the crash — and why it should result in full compensation.

Why Time Is Critical in Truck Crash Cases

Trucking companies only have to retain logs and electronic data for six months. Video footage may be deleted in a matter of days. If you wait too long, critical evidence may disappear — making it harder to prove the truck driver was fatigued.

Hiring a Jackson truck accident lawyer early gives you the best chance to secure and preserve this time-sensitive data.

What to Do If You Suspect Fatigue Caused the Crash

• Seek immediate medical attention
• Avoid talking to insurance adjusters alone
• Take notes on what you remember about the crash
• Call a truck accident attorney in Jackson right away

The Diaz Law Firm – Legal Help After a Truck Accident

If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, The Diaz Law Firm is ready to stand by your side. Our experienced attorneys offer a free case evaluation to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (601) 607-3456 or toll-free at (800) 459-2222, or connect with us online to schedule your no-cost consultation.