How Can Driver Fatigue Contribute to Catastrophic Truck Crashes on I-10 and I-35?

 Posted on July 07, 2025 in Truck accidents

Interstate 10 and Interstate 35 are vital shipping routes in and around Comal County, but they are also among the most dangerous roads in Texas. Every day, thousands of commercial trucks travel through New Braunfels and nearby areas, and unfortunately, not all of them are operated by well-rested drivers.

Driver fatigue is a leading cause of catastrophic truck crashes on these highways. When a truck driver is too tired to safely operate their rig, the consequences can be devastating. At highway speeds, a single moment of drowsiness can mean the difference between a close call and a fatal wreck. If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident, speak with a qualified Texas personal injury lawyer to understand your options for compensation.

Why Is Fatigue So Dangerous for Truck Drivers?

Truck drivers often work long hours, face tight delivery deadlines, and drive through the night. Even though federal regulations limit how many hours a truck driver can operate, these rules are not always followed or enforced. Some drivers feel pressured to skip rest breaks or falsify their logs to keep moving.

Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Studies show that a driver awake for more than 18 hours may drive as poorly as someone with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent. Drowsy drivers can also suffer from delayed reaction times, poor judgment, and even "microsleeps," which are brief periods of sleep that last a few seconds while the driver’s eyes are still open. When a fatigued truck driver is behind the wheel of a fully loaded 80,000-pound vehicle, every second matters.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Illinois Truck Crash?

When a truck accident is caused by driver fatigue, multiple parties may be responsible:

• The truck driver, for violating rest requirements

• The trucking company, for encouraging unsafe schedules or failing to monitor logs

• A third-party dispatcher or broker, if they created unrealistic delivery timelines

• A vehicle maintenance company, if mechanical failure contributed to the crash

At The Bettersworth Law Firm, we have handled commercial vehicle accident cases for over 25 years. We know how to investigate logbook violations, GPS records, camera footage, and maintenance logs to uncover the truth and hold the right parties accountable.

Contact a New Braunfels, TX Truck Wreck Attorney Today

If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck crash on I-10 or I-35, do not wait to get legal help. Contact a Gonzalez, TX truck accident lawyer to understand your options.

At The Bettersworth Law Firm, we handle a limited number of cases at a time, by design. We are committed to giving every client the attention they deserve. When you work with us, you will not be passed off or overlooked. You will have direct, regular contact with the attorney handling your case.

We are known for being aggressive in the courtroom and compassionate with our clients. Our team has recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for people seriously injured in truck accidents. We are also proud members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, reserved for top trial lawyers across the country. Call us at 830-606-0404 to schedule a free consultation.