Common Sources of Commercial Driver Distraction

            The law requires all drivers (not just commercial drivers) to be aware of their own vehicle and their surroundings while driving.  However, drivers of 18-wheelers or tractor trailers must use extra attention when driving because the vehicles that they are driving weigh considerably more than the average passenger car and when involved in an accident can cause catastrophic injuries and death. 

            Distracted driving is now the most common cause of accidents in the United States.  Truck drivers are no different when it comes to being distracted while driving.  Many commercial trucks or 18-wheelers have on-board computers that the truckers use while driving.  Other common distractions are reading while driving, talking on the phone, texting or surfing the web while driving, eating, or trying to fill out paperwork while driving. 

            Luckily, if you have been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, the aspects of what might have caused the accident could be captured on the truck’s onboard “black box.”  These data devices capture important data from an accident such as speed, direction of travel, etc.  However, these devices (depending on the company that maintains the data) are often “wiped” every 30 day (or sooner).  Thus if you have been involved with an 18-wheeler it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible so that the data from the black box can be preserved as evidence in your case.

            If you have been injured because of a distracted 18-wheeler driver there may be legal options available to help cover your car damage, medical bills lost wages, and pain and suffering.  To learn more about your rights after an accident with an 18-wheeler, please contact us today for a free consultation – 800-554-9260.