Truck Drivers and Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a perilous issue affecting all motorists, but it takes on heightened significance when it involves commercial truck drivers. Their vehicles’ sheer size and weight can lead to catastrophic damage and severe injuries when driven negligently. If you’ve been a victim of a truck accident caused by distracted driving, you deserve to have a competent and experienced attorney to represent your interests in court.
The truck accident team at Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci is ready to fight for your rights. Our attorneys have represented injured victims, and their families get compensation from drivers who ignored the rules of the road due to distractions. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What is Distracted Driving?
Some people may think that the term “distracted driving” only refers to texting or using a mobile phone while behind the wheel. However, this is not the case. Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. This includes actions like fiddling with the radio or navigation system, eating, or even talking with passengers. These distractions can be categorized into three main types: visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), and cognitive (taking your mind off driving). Any one of these distractions can significantly increase the risk of a crash, especially when operating massive vehicles such as commercial trucks. Therefore, understanding and addressing distracted driving is essential for the safety of all road users.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a pervasive issue that has far-reaching consequences. It is crucial to understand the common causes that lead to distracted driving, as this knowledge can help in prevention and awareness campaigns. Here are some of the most frequent culprits:
Cell Phone Use: This is perhaps the most common cause of distracted driving accidents. Texting, calling, or browsing social media while driving diverts attention from the road and significantly increases the risk of an accident.
Eating and Drinking: Many drivers try to save time by eating or drinking while driving. This can cause drivers to remove their hands from the wheel or their eyes from the road.
Navigation Systems: While useful, fiddling with the GPS or looking at directions can take attention away from the driving task.
Adjusting Controls or Entertainment Systems: Changing the radio station, adjusting the air conditioning, or manipulating other controls in the vehicle can cause distractions.
Passenger Interactions: Engaging in discussions with passengers or dealing with children in the back seat can also distract a driver.
Remember, driving requires your full attention. Any activity that diverts your focus can lead to severe consequences.
The Impact of Technology on Truck Drivers
Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet strict deadlines, which can lead to them relying on technology while driving. While safety features such as lane departure warning systems and collision avoidance technology are beneficial, they can also create a false sense of security for drivers. This reliance on technology can cause complacency and lead to distracted driving.
Furthermore, trucking companies may equip their vehicles with GPS trackers or other monitoring systems to track drivers’ locations and performance. These devices can be a significant source of distraction, as the driver may feel pressure to constantly check them while driving.
What Technology Do Truck Drivers Have To Use While Driving?
Truck drivers often use various forms of technology to assist with their job duties. Some of these include:
GPS Navigation Systems: These devices provide drivers with real-time updates on their routes, ensuring that they reach their destinations in the most efficient manner.
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): By law, truck drivers are required to record their working hours. ELDs automate this process, ensuring compliance with regulations on working hours and rest periods.
Communication Devices: These allow drivers to maintain contact with their dispatch centers or other drivers. This can include CB radios, mobile phones, and satellite communication systems.
On-board Diagnostics Systems: These systems monitor various aspects of the truck’s performance, including fuel consumption, engine temperature, and tire pressure, allowing drivers to address potential issues before they become serious problems.
Collision Avoidance Systems: These systems use radar technology to alert drivers to potential hazards, helping to prevent accidents.
Lane Departure Warning Systems: These devices alert drivers if their vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by inattention or fatigue.
Rearview Cameras: These devices provide drivers with a clear view of the area behind their trucks, reducing the risk of backing accidents.
Telematics Systems: These devices track a truck’s location, speed, and other performance metrics, providing valuable data to fleet managers.
It’s important to note that while these technologies can greatly aid truck drivers in their duties, they should not replace the driver’s attention and judgment while on the road.
Prevalence of Distracted Driving among Truck Drivers
Distracted driving is a widespread problem among truck drivers, largely due to the long hours and monotonous nature of their work. According to a study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 71% of large-truck accidents occurred when the truck driver was doing something besides driving the truck. A distracted driver is a dangerous one, and truck driver distraction is a significant issue that must be addressed.
Holding Negligent Truck Drivers Accountable
When commercial truck drivers engage in distracted driving, they pose an immense risk to themselves and others on the road. If you have been injured in a truck accident caused by a distracted truck driver, you have the right to seek compensation. Our attorneys at Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions and helping you receive the compensation you deserve.
In addition to compensating victims for their injuries and damages, holding these drivers accountable can also bring awareness to the dangers of distracted driving. By taking legal action, you may help prevent future accidents and potentially save lives.
Who Can Be Held Liable For An Accident Caused By Distracted Truck Drivers?
The Truck Driver: The individual who was behind the wheel when the accident occurred is often the first party considered for liability. If it can be proven that they were engaged in distracted driving, they could be held responsible.
The Trucking Company: If the truck driver was operating the truck in the scope of his employment, the trucking company can be held liable under the doctrine of respondeat superior.
The Truck Manufacturer: If the distraction was caused by a faulty piece of equipment in the truck, the manufacturer of the truck or that particular piece of equipment could potentially be held liable. These are very difficult claims to prosecute.
Other Drivers: If another driver’s actions contributed to the truck driver’s distraction or inability to avoid the accident, they could also be held partially liable.
Remember, liability in a truck accident case is often complex and requires thorough investigation. It’s recommended to seek legal counsel if you believe you have a claim.
How Can Our Lawyers Help With Distracted Driving Truck Accidents?
Thorough Investigation
Our team at Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering all necessary evidence to substantiate your claim. This can include police reports, witness statements, and, crucially, data from the truck’s on-board systems that may reveal the driver’s distracted behavior at the time of the crash.
Navigating Complex Trucking Regulations
Commercial trucking is subject to myriad complex regulations. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in these laws, enabling us to identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident. This can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize their payouts. Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who will tirelessly advocate for your interests, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Aggressive Representation in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached out of court, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators who will aggressively represent your interests in the courtroom, fighting for justice and the maximum compensation possible.
You Deserve Expert Legal Representation
You deserve an experienced truck accident attorney on your side. Truck accidents caused by distracted driving can result in devastating injuries and even fatalities. Contact Cantor Grana Buckner Bucci today for a free consultation and to learn how we can help you seek justice.
