We have all heard about the dangers of distracted drivers but what about distracted truck drivers? Distracted truck drivers can cause catastrophic or fatal accidents. Truckers drive for a living, so they are behind the wheel for many hours at a time. Truck drivers are often under tight pressure to drive so many miles or make so many deliveries in a fairly limited amount of time. Truck drivers often drive while fatigued and/or distracted. When a truck driver is driving while distracted, they place themselves and others at risk of a tragic preventable accident. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), external distractions cause about 8% of large truck crashes and internal distractions cause about 2% of all large truck crashes.
Common Truck Driver Distractions:
Truck drivers become distracted from the following:
- Talking to passengers
- Using navigation systems
- Reading a text message
- Sending a text message
- Eating
- Drinking
- Smoking
- Changing radio stations
- Adjusting mirrors
The FMCSA prohibits drivers from using cell phones while operating commercial vehicles. A driver who breaks this rule can face civil penalties up to $2,750.00 and they can also face disqualification.
Injuries from Distracted Truck Driving Accidents:
A distracted trucking accident can lead to catastrophic injuries including;
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
Liability for Truck Accidents:
Determining liability for a truck accident can be difficult because of the number of different parties involves. There is the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck and/or various other third parties.
Tips for Avoiding Accidents with Large Trucks:
- Look out for blind spots: Trucks have very large blind spots and a good rule is: If you cannot see the driver in the truck's mirrors, the truck driver does not see you.
- Keep a safe distance: When you're behind a large truck, try to maintain a distance of 20 to 25 car lengths.
- Always use your turn signals when changing lanes.
- Adjust your speed to weather conditions: Rain and/or snow can make driving a truck more dangerous. Allow more time for braking.
Sarasota and Bradenton Truck Accident Attorneys:
If you have been injured in a Sarasota or Bradenton truck accident, please contact the Michael L. Morgan Law Group, P.A. We will do our best to recover compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, future medical expenses & pain, and suffering. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there is no cost to you unless we recover on your behalf. Please call (941) 218-8220 to schedule a free consultation.
