Distracted Driving Is a Primary Cause of Truck Accidents
Distracted driving has become a major problem on U.S. roadways. In particular, we have seen an increase in truck accidents caused by distracted driving. Whether it’s the truck driver or the other vehicle driver, when someone is distracted while operating a vehicle, accidents happen. Unfortunately, truck accidents tend to be very serious and almost always result in injury.
Common distractions that can cause accidents:
- Talking on a cell phone
- Texting while driving
- Looking at a map or map program while driving
- Listening to something on headphones while driving
- Changing the radio
- Talking to a passenger
- Loud noises inside the vehicle
- Pets inside the vehicle
At its simplest, you can help prevent distracted driving accidents by staying focused while driving and removing some of the abovementioned distractions. For example, if you know you will need help from a navigation system or app, make sure you have the system set to speak the directions to you so that you do not have to take your eyes off the road to look at a map. Similarly, never wear headphones while driving; if you need to check a map, send a text, or look something up on your phone, pull over before doing so.
Preventing Truck Accidents
Though distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents, it is not the only one. Other forms of negligence and/or reckless behavior can also lead to serious truck accidents. It is important that both truck drivers and other vehicle operators are aware of what causes truck accidents and what they can do to avoid those circumstances.
Other common causes of truck accidents include:
- Fatigued driving
- Reckless driving
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Improperly or inadequately trained truck drivers
- Overscheduling of truck drivers
- Malfunctioning equipment
- Other drivers failing to see trucks entering or exiting the road
- Other drivers not giving trucks adequate space on the road
- Tailgating or driving in a truck’s blind spots
- Failing to signal when changing lanes or making turns
- Poor road conditions
- Bad weather
One of the most important things you can do as a driver is to remain aware of your surroundings. This is especially important in construction zones where trucks may be entering or exiting the highway. You should also always obey the rules of the road and postage signage. If you are in a situation where the weather is bad, you are tired, or are under the influence of something, do not drive. Either stay where you are, call a friend or family member for a ride, or utilize a cab or ride-sharing service, like Uber or Lyft.
What to Do If You Are Injured in an Accident?
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, you might have grounds to file a personal injury claim. In cases where your accident resulted from someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you might also be able to recover compensation for your injuries. This compensation is crucial to helping those injured receive the care their need and move on from their accident.
It is recommended that you work with an experienced personal injury attorney (like ours at May, Rammell & Wells) after a truck accident. Your attorney can not only help you file a personal injury claim, but they can also negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. Having a strong advocate in your corner after a serious truck accident can help you feel more supported and bring you peace of mind.
To discuss your case with one of our truck accident lawyers, reach out to us online or call our law firm at (208) 623-8021. Our law firm has extensive experience handling truck accident cases in Idaho, and we are prepared to put this experience to work for you.