The Dangers of Distracted Driving for Commercial Truck Drivers

There is no one for whom distracted driving is safe—but commercial truck drivers are at even greater risk of severe accidents than other drivers. The outcome of a crash caused by a distracted truck driver is far more likely to result in severe or fatal injuries than those caused by distracted passenger vehicle drivers. It’s important for everyone to be aware of these dangers and take steps to make the roads as safe as possible.

Have you been injured in a truck accident in Chatom? The team at Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell is here to help you. Call us at 251-847-2237 to set up a consultation now.

Common Distractions for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers have access to a wide range of distractions that can take their hands off the steering wheel, their minds off of the demands of driving, and their eyes off the road. Potential distractions that may lead to truck accidents include:

• Cell phones: Cell phones are one of the most common sources of distraction for all drivers, not just truck drivers. Currently, cell phone technology makes it easier than ever to find anything you want in just a few seconds. That type of temptation is hard to avoid when you’re stuck in the truck for hours at a time and looking for something to keep your mind engaged. Texting, using social media, or watching videos can all lead to serious accidents.

• In-cab technology: Today’s tractor-trailers have lots of technology meant to make driving safer and less stressful. GPS systems and infotainment screens aim to make driving easier, but in some cases, they make it easier for drivers to focus on something other than the road.

• Food and beverage: This is a particularly severe risk for truck drivers—they are busier now than ever before, with more companies pushing drivers to skip breaks to save time and make deadlines. This forces them to eat and drink on the road, which can greatly increase their risk of an accident.

• Fatigue: Truck drivers are prone to fatigue, thanks to their long hours, irregular shifts, and the inherent isolation of this field. Fatigue makes it very hard to pay attention and stay focused, and it’s common for truck drivers to become distracted by anything they see or even their own thoughts.

Why Distracted Driving is So Dangerous

Distracted driving is widely considered one of the most severe dangers on American roads. Looking down at your phone for just a few seconds is the same as driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. That’s incredibly risky for a passenger vehicle driver, but when you’re talking about a tractor-trailer driver in charge of the largest vehicle on the road, the fallout could be fatal.

Commercial trucks take longer to come to a complete stop, which already puts them at heightened risk of collisions. When you throw in distractions that delay a driver’s reaction time, you’re taking a dangerous situation and making it even worse for everyone on the road.

Regulations Affecting Truck Drivers

The FMCSA imposes strict regulations on truck drivers, including those focused on distracted driving. This regulation bars CMV drivers from reaching for or holding a mobile phone. They are required to use a hands-free phone while talking or using their phone for other allowed purposes, such as driving directions.

Drivers who are found to be in violation of these laws can be hit with heavy penalties. They may face civil penalties as high as $2,750. Those who have multiple violations may be disqualified from driving commercial vehicles entirely. If a company requires its drivers to text or use their mobile phones while driving, they too can be penalized and pay fines as high as $11,000.

Injured in a Truck Accident? Call Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell Now

The consequences of distracted driving can follow victims for a lifetime. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, our team of truck accident attorneys is here to help you. Find out what you should do next and if you are entitled to compensation. To set up a free consultation, just call us at 251-847-2237 or send us a message online.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving for Commercial Truck Drivers

Discover the grave dangers of distracted driving for commercial truck drivers and how it leads to severe truck accidents. Learn about common distractions, FMCSA regulations, and how to stay safe. If you've been injured in a truck accident, contact Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell at 251-847-2237 for expert legal help.

Service Type: Truck accident attorney