On June 9, tbo.com reported a fatal semi truck accident that occurred recently in New Jersey. The incident occurred when a sleep-deprived semi truck driver crashed into the back of a limo, killing comedian James “Jimmy Mack” McNair and injuring comedian Tracy Morgan who suffered a broken femur, a broken nose and broken ribs. Morgan underwent surgery for his leg and is reported to be in critical condition at the time of this posting.


The TBO report also states that the semi truck driver, 35-year-old Kevin Roper, is accused of going more than 24 hours without sleep. Roper is being charged with death by auto and four counts of assault by auto, and is accused of violating federal hours of service regulations which, among other policies, require drivers to go off duty for a minimum of 10 hours after a 14-hour shift.

Sleep Deprived Driver Charged in Fatal Semi Truck Accident

These regulations are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, to help prevent driver fatigue and to make the roads safer. Sadly, however, these regulations are routinely violated and truck drivers drive well past the legal limit and well past their ability to drive safely.

There is no doubt that drowsy driving is dangerous and causes serious and sometimes deadly semi truck accidents. A lack of sleep not only causes slowed reaction times, but may cause drivers to fall asleep at the wheel. Some drivers may even fall asleep involuntarily for a few seconds and not even realize it, a phenomenon called microsleep.

Truck drivers in particular are notorious for trying to “power through” to make a delivery, to make more money, or to get home sooner, but this is a dangerous and illegal trend that needs to stop. Drivers put themselves and innocent victims at great risk.

Contact a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer in Tampa

If you or a family member has been injured or killed in a semi truck accident in Tampa, contact the Capaz Law firm to speak with an experienced semi truck accident lawyer. We know just how devastating an accident can be and will fight aggressively to hold the negligent party accountable and get you the compensation you need to recover. Call for your free consultation.

Original story source information

View original article here: http://tbo.com/ap/prosecutor-trucker-in-tracy-morgan-crash-lacked-sleep-20140609/