Distracted driving has always been a danger on our roadways. From playing with the radio to horsing around in the car, there are all kinds of distractions that can take our eyes off the road just long enough to cause an accident. In recent years, distracted driving has become a more serious issue given how many people have smartphones. All too many of those smartphones end up in a driver’s hands while they are behind the wheel, and with disastrous consequences.
According to distraction.gov, the official government website on distracted driving:
- 424,000 people were injured by distracted drivers in 2014
- 3,179 people lost their lives to distracted drivers in 2014
- Distracted driving is the leading cause of death for drivers aged 18-24
Distracted driving is hazardous when operating any vehicle type, and especially so for commercial trucks. It goes without saying that an accident involving a massive commercial truck has the potential to be more devastating than a collision between two personal-use vehicles. Those commercial trucks you see on our roadways, when fully loaded with cargo, can weigh 25 times more than the average car. When such a huge object slams into a car, the differences in the size and weight of the vehicles can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Laws have been enacted against distracted driving for all vehicle types. Get caught texting when you should be focused on the road, and you’ll end up with a hefty fine. This of course would be a better outcome than causing an accident that destroys property and seriously hurts somebody. The best way to avoid a ticket or a life-changing accident is to keep the phone tucked away until you have arrived at your destination or have pulled over safely.
To further protect the public, special regulations are on the books against distracted driving while operating a commercial truck. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration prohibits commercial truck drivers from texting (§ 392.80) and from using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving (§ 392.82).
The attorneys at Fried Goldberg want to spread the word about the seriousness of distracted driving and encourage better driving habits. We have been fighting for the rights of truck and car accident victims for years, winning countless settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients. If you or a loved one have suffered at the hands of a negligent driver, reach out to our reputable legal team today. We can take the burden of proving your case off of your shoulders, so you can focus on your recovery.