The dangers of distracted truck drivers

The dangers of distracted truck drivers
Jul 13 2022

When distracted driving is combined with a commercial truck, the consequences can be catastrophic. It is important for victims of distracted driving-related truck accidents to know when and how distracted truck drivers, and the companies they work for, may be held liable for the harm suffered.

Distracted truck drivers can be a danger on the roadway

Truck drivers should avoid driver distractions including:

  • Texting while driving: It is illegal for drivers of commercial vehicles to text while driving. Texting takes the driver’s mind, hands and eyes off of the task of driving. A study from 2009 found that texting while driving increases the chances of a safety-critical incident occurring by 23 times.
  • Using a dispatching device while driving: For the same reasons that texting while driving is so dangerous, truck drivers should not use dispatching devices while driving.
  • Holding a phone while driving: It is illegal for truck drivers to hold a phone while driving. They should only use hands-free devices. A study from 2010 revealed that dialing a handheld cell phone while driving increased the chances of a crash or near-crash by 3 times.
  • Outside distractions: Drivers should not let potential distractions outside of the cab of their truck distract them. A study from 2006 found that driver inattention was a leading factor in both crashes and near crashes.
  • Eating and drinking while driving: As much as possible, truck drivers should not eat or drink while driving.

In addition, truck drivers should avoid writing, reading or using paper maps while driving. Fiddling with a navigation device while driving is another distraction danger to avoid.

Legal action

If you are a truck accident victim who has been injured by a distracted truck driver, it is essential to be familiar with your legal options. A personal injury claim for damages can help protect you from the fallout of a truck accident and may help with your physical, financial and emotional damages that arose out of the truck accident.

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