The Recorder recently published an article showing how one semi truck driver tried to illegally push his limits and was caught and arrested by Massachusetts police. The truck driver reportedly drove without rest from Washington State, across the entire country, to Massachusetts-a nearly 3,000 mile distance! The semi truck driver was allegedly under the influence of crystal meth, LSD, and cocaine to keep him awake and functioning for the dangerous journey.
“It appeared the driver didn’t rest, only used drugs, and he drove from Seattle, Wash., to Deerfield, with a destination on the East Coast.”
Deerfield, Massachusetts Police officer Adam Sokoloski commented that the driver, Garry Robbins "was clearly a danger to himself and others." Luckily however, there were no reports of the truck driver causing any auto accidents along his journey. In fact, the driver somehow actually delivered his shipment despite the condition he was in when he was arrested. It should be noted that his driver's license was suspended after he was arrested by local police. Also, the semi truck was impounded and he was charged with several drug and motor vehicle violations, turning the matter over to the court system.
While cross country trucking is a difficult job, it is important to take breaks and rest when needed when driving thousand of miles. According to The Automobile Association (AA), "1 in 5 accidents on major roads are caused by tiredness." In an effort to prevent such accident, The AA gives the following safety trips for long distance driving:
Long Distance Driving Safety Tips
- Don't drive for more than 8 hours in a day.
- Take regular fifteen minute breaks in journeys over three hours.
- Aim to stop every two hours or so, especially if you're not used to driving long distances.
- If you feel at all sleepy, stop in a safe place. Don’t stop on a motorway hard shoulder.
- The best way to counter sleepiness is to drink two cups of caffeinated coffee and to take a short nap of at least 15 minutes - check for parking restrictions before you do so.
- Plan journeys so that you can take breaks, allowing for an overnight stay if necessary. Even experienced HGV drivers are prevented from driving more than 9 hours in a day or working for over 13 hours in a day. Most car drivers are nowhere near as used to driving for this long.
- Don't start a long journey if you’re tired.
- Heavy meals can make you sleepy.
- Driving at times when you would normally be asleep brings extra risk, particularly the early morning.
- Strenuous exercise before driving can also have a bad effect - especially for older people.
Most importantly, drivers should never consume alcohol or drugs when they know that they will be driving. Though motor vehicle collisions are very common, hopefully by following these tips, some unnecessary and preventable car accidents can be avoided.
Distracted driving and drunk driving are dangerous and in many causes can lead to truck accidents. Though these types of accidents are highly avoidable, they do happen. If you or someone you care about has been involved in a Michigan truck accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Speak to a Michigan injury lawyer today at 844.464.3476. Our Metro Detroit law firm offers free consultations.