In West Virginia and across the country, daily life is drastically different than it was just a few short weeks ago. Most places have new regulations that require residents to spend a lot of time at home, and only go out to purchase essential goods or to seek medical attention. While a large number of businesses are closed or employees are working from home, the truck drivers responsible for restocking shelves and delivering crucial supplies are busier than ever, and some recent changes may lead to a higher likelihood of truck accidents. 

One truck driver shared his recent experiences. He spoke about being out on the road for more than a month at a time, with little human contact. Many hotels and restaurants are closed, and it can be difficult for a truck driver to stay well-rested or get a healthy meal. He explained that even when he reaches a destination with goods, it is no longer unusual for a company or store to request a contactless drop-off, or even take a driver’s temperature to ensure he or she is not running a fever, which can be an indicator of potential illness. 

West Virginia recently relaxed regulations on size and weight restrictions for the loads big trucks carry. This is an effort to restock store shelves that many have found sparse in recent weeks, but these regulations are otherwise meant to keep roads safe for truck drivers and other motorists alike. Hungry, exhausted drivers may now be responsible for hauling loads much larger than they are used to pulling. This may spell danger for the drivers and other people on the roads.

When truck accidents cause serious injury to a victim, financial suffering may accompany physical pain and permanent injury. Medical bills, loss of wages due to inability to work, and lasting physical and mental injury may be overwhelming. In such cases, a victim can contact a trusted local attorney to take legal action against the party or parties believed to have been at fault, allowing a victim to focus on recovering both physically and financially.