Tracy Morgan Injured By Tired Trucker Shines Light On Drowsy Driving Problem

For years drowsy driving by truck drivers has been a concern. Due to accident statistics, it’s no secret among federal authorities that many truck drivers are sleep deprived. This is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration set new rules and stricter hours-of-service limits last year—hoping to keep motorists safe and reduce the number of drowsy driving truck accidents.

Although new rules were put in place, a recent truck crash shines the light on trucker hours and whether or not truck drivers get enough sleep. After an accident on June 7, 2014 killed a comedian and left “30 Rock” star Tracy Morgan injured, trucker drowsy driving has become a hot topic again as it seems like many truck drivers still aren’t getting adequate rest. According to numerous media reports, comedian and television star Tracy Morgan was riding in a limo bus with others when their vehicle was struck by a semi truck.

Tracy Morgan suffered broken bones and other serious injuries, and three others in the limo were injured. Sadly, Morgan’s friend and fellow comedian James “Uncle Jimmy Mack” McNair, 62, died as a result of the truck crash. After an investigation into the accident, it was determined that the truck driver hadn’t slept in over 24 hours. Kevin Roper, 35, a truck driver for Walmart, has been charged with vehicular homicide and assault following this wreck.
According to the new federal rules, Roper should have slept seven or eight hours but instead ignored federal laws and continued driving. Because more miles of driving often means more money for truckers, many truck drivers have an incentive to keep driving instead of getting the proper amount of rest.

While this crash took place south of New York City, drowsy driving truck accidents occur all over this nation and Florida is no exception. Florida truck accidents are frequently caused by drowsy drivers. If you or a loved one has been hurt as a result of a drowsy truck driver, you need to seek justice and hold that negligent driver responsible.

For help holding a drowsy driving accountable for his actions, contact the Law Office of David Benenfeld to speak with a knowledgeable South Florida accident attorney. Simply dial 954-677-0155 or contact us online for your free, private consultation today.