Without truck drivers, grocery store and department store shelves would probably remain empty. Every day, thousands of trucks travel the highways and byways here in Florida and throughout the country delivering goods to fill those shelves. Anyone who has ever driven across the country knows how boring these trips can be.
What do truck drivers do all day while they drive? Hopefully, they are focusing on the traffic and the road, but that isn’t always the case. Distracted truck drivers present a serious, and often fatal, danger to everyone.
Hopefully, a truck driver isn’t focused on something outside the vehicle
Billboards, signs for food, gas and hotels off the roadway and other advertisements may serve a purpose to the establishments, but they are merely a distraction for drivers. During the time a trucker is reading such signs, the traffic pattern could easily change into a dangerous situation.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration conducted a study that revealed these external distractions led to approximately 11,000 crashes in a three-year period.
Hopefully, a truck driver isn’t focused on a cell phone
Cell phones have revolutionized the way people communicate and connect to the world around them. However, the use of such a device while driving presents a significant danger to motorists and their passengers. Texting in particular poses a serious threat because it requires the driver to use his or her hands, eyes and brain. In the few short seconds it takes to send or read a text, your vehicle travels the length of a football field at 55 mph.
As for dialing a phone while driving, many smartphones can utilize apps for hands-free, voice-activated dialing. These devices allow you to keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road. However, having a conversation can also distract you. In fact, using any communication device, including a dispatching device, can be dangerous.
Hopefully, a truck driver didn’t cause a crash because of a distraction
If one did, however, and you suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one, you could be entitled to compensation. In an accident involving a distracted truck driver, you may be able to seek damages from the driver, his or her employer and the insurance company. Understanding your rights in a case like this may require some help.
The trucking company and insurance company will more than likely have at least one attorney advocating for each of them. You may also want to discuss your situation with an attorney to be sure that you receive all of the compensation to which you may be entitled.
