While most people think of distracted driving as being a problem that affects passenger vehicle drivers, commercial truck drivers are also guilty of driving while their attention is divided between the road and a cell phone or other device. While federal law prohibits the use of hand-held devices by commercial truck drivers, cell phones continue to be a significant factor in large-truck accidents. Those who have been injured in crashes with these big rigs may benefit from the assistance of an Orlando Truck Accident Attorney.
Federal Law Restricts Truck Driver Cell Phone Use
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA, notes that there are two important rules about hand-held devices that affect those who operate large vehicles. The first is Title 49, Section 392.82 of the Federal Code, which states that no driver may use a hand-held mobile telephone while operating a commercial motor vehicle or CMV. Section 392.80 of Title 49 also states that no driver shall engage in texting while driving a commercial vehicle. Both prohibitions are lifted if it is necessary to contact law enforcement in the event of an emergency.
The Scope of the Problem
While federal regulations are very clear, trucks and commercial bus drivers continue to talk and text while behind the wheel. Studies indicate that commercial drivers who text are 23 times as likely to be involved in a crash as those who do not, and that not only texting but reaching for the phone, dialing a number or engaging in conversation can distract a driver to the point that a crash is likely. One study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that distracted drivers are responsible for 15 percent of large-vehicle crashes in the United States. With more than 2 million commercial truck drivers on American roads, this means that there is a significant risk of injury and death to innocent victims.
What Should I Do If I Am The Victim of a Commercial Truck Accident?
If you have been injured in an accident with a large truck, it is very important that you seek the help of a personal injury attorney. Along with the federal laws regarding texting, large truck drivers and the companies for which they work are also subject to many other rules and regulations regarding the amount of time they can spend behind the wheel, how often they must inspect their vehicles and lights and how much they can carry. Truck drivers are required to keep detailed logs of their trips for these purposes, and this information can be very useful in finding support for a personal injury claim.
The victim of a large truck accident may be entitled to compensation including payment of medical bills, lost wages and other expenses associated with the crash as well as permanent disability, pain and suffering and other costs. The truck accident attorneys at David & Philpot, P.L. have extensive experience in semi-truck accident cases and may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Our live chat operators are standing by 24×7 to discuss your case. You can also contact our office at 800.360.7015 or fill out a free case evaluation form and we will get right back with you. We are here to help!
Comments are closed.