There are labor laws set that govern the number of hours an employee in Massachusetts can work on any given shift. One of the reasons for this is to ensure that workers are being treated fairly. Another reason is to protect employees from accidents that can occur from overworking and being tired. One area where this is particularly important is the trucking industry. Because trucks come into contact with a high number of automobiles on the road, it is vitally important that drivers get the rest they need. This is why federal laws have been set that mandate drivers work no more than 14 hours a day, 11 of which can be spent driving.
A 35-year-old driver that may have been awake for 24 hours caused a fatal truck accident recently. He was charged with vehicular homicide and four counts of assault by automobile. The man was driving a Walmart truck when he crashed into a vehicle carrying comedian Tracy Morgan. Morgan was hospitalized and listed in critical condition after suffering a broken nose, femur and a number of broken ribs. Another comedian, James McNair, was riding in the same vehicle and was killed in the accident.
Although Walmart has released a statement saying they will assume full responsibility for the accident if it is determined that their driver caused it, those who were involved may wish to consult with a personal injury attorney. They may wish to pursue legal action in order to be fully compensated for their pain and suffering and medical expenses.
Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “Walmart says driver in Morgan crash was within federal limits,” Alexis Stevens, June 9, 2014