Commercial trucks like 18 wheelers and delivery trucks present significant dangers to cars and their passengers. Not only do truck drivers need to be aware of the hazards presented by their size, but also the cargo that they haul. Driver errors, such as failing to signal before passing, can result in catastrophe when an eighteen-wheeler is involved. As a result, drivers must be vigilant and properly trained in order to avoid a commercial vehicle accident.
Common causes of commercial vehicle accidents caused by truck drivers
In addition to the dangers inherent in the size and weight of the trucks used in commercial transportation and shipping, a number acts of negligence by commercial employers can contribute to traffic accidents. These include:
In addition, the risk associated with distracted driving is exaggerated in these commercial vehicles. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA), recent research shows that the odds of being involved in a crash or potential crash are 23.2 times greater for commercial motor vehicle drivers who text while driving. The FMCSA further reports that texting drivers took their eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, this equates to a driver traveling the length of a football field without looking at the road.
The Federal Motor Carrier Administration New texting and mobile phone restrictions for commercial motor vehicle drivers
The FMCSA and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) have published rules specifically prohibiting interstate truck and bus drivers, together with drivers who transport hazardous materials, from texting or using hand-held mobile phones while driving.
These rules also restrict an 18 wheeler driver from reaching for or holding a mobile phone to talk, as well as dialing by pressing more than a single button. The FMCSA rules prohibit unsafely reaching for a device, holding a mobile phone, or pressing multiple buttons on a mobile device.
If you have been involved in an accident with an 18 wheeler or other commercial vehicle, Chelsie King Garza can help. Contact a skilled attorney now to ensure that your harms and losses are fully compensated.
