Distracted driving isn’t good for any driver, but it can be especially destructive when truck drivers do it. When truck drivers aren’t paying attention to the road, their 80,000 pound vehicle can crash into other vehicles, causing devastating injuries and fatalities. Despite all the warning against distracted driving, many truck drivers still continue to succumb to distractions when behind the wheel. A personal injury lawyer shares some of the common distractions for truck drivers:
Cellphones
Cellphones are one of the major distractions for truck drivers. Whether they send a text message or call somebody, using a phone takes a truck driver’s eyes and mind off the road, increasing the risk of an accident. When a truck driver is carrying on a conversation with someone over the phone, he or she won’t be able to pay close enough attention to all the other vehicles on the road. To prevent accidents, it is important for truck drivers to avoid using their cellphones until they have parked their truck in a safe spot.
Checking a Map
If a truck driver is unfamiliar with a route, he or she may take a few seconds to look at a map while driving. Unfortunately, this can take his or her eyes off the road and lead to an accident. To avoid this, truck drivers should map out their routes far in advance.
Eating
Many truck drivers to choose to eat behind the wheel so that they can save time and make their routes on time. However, eating food can take their hands off the wheel and make them look away from the road more frequently. That is why truck drivers should always stop their vehicles before they eat.
Reaching for Objects
Whether it is a water bottle or pad of paper, truck drivers can become distracted when they reach for random object in the bed of their truck. They should avoid searching for any of these items while behind the wheel.
Smoking
Some truck drivers smoke out of habit or to reduce some stress. However, if they do this while behind the wheel, they have to take at least one hand off the wheel, which can be distracting.
Filing a Lawsuit Against a Distracted Truck Driver
If you were injured by a distracted truck driver, you may be eligible for compensation. The compensation may be used to cover your medical bills, lost wages and other damages that resulted from the accident. However, you only have so much time to file a lawsuit, so it is important to talk to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. He or she may review your case for free and advise you the best way to proceed.
A skilled lawyer, like a trucking accident lawyer turns to, understands how devastating it is to be the victim of a truck accident. Contact an attorney today to seek the compensation you deserve
