Distracted driving is inherently dangerous. When truck drivers lose focus, the consequences can be catastrophic. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, even a momentary lapse in attention can result in severe accidents, injuries, and fatalities. This blog discusses the common causes of distracted driving truck accidents, the regulatory controls, and how to prevent such incidents, which are essential for improving road safety.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the primary task of operating their vehicle. For truck drivers, distractions are particularly dangerous due to the challenges of maneuvering large vehicles and the potential for significant damage in a collision.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distractions generally fall into three categories:
- Visual distractions–Taking eyes off the road
- Manual distractions–Taking hands off the wheel
- Cognitive distractions–Taking the mind off driving
Common Causes of Distracted Truck Driving
Several factors contribute to distracted driving in the trucking industry. Some of the most common include:
- Electronic devices–Texting, making calls, or using GPS devices are leading causes of distracted driving. Despite federal regulations prohibiting truck drivers from using handheld devices, these distractions persist and are a major risk factor for accidents.
- Eating and drinking–Long hours on the road often lead truck drivers to eat or drink while driving. Handling food or beverages diverts both attention and hands from driving.
- Fatigue–Truck drivers often work long shifts, which can lead to fatigue. Fatigue reduces reaction times and makes drivers more prone to daydreaming or zoning out.
- Adjusting vehicle controls–Adjusting the radio, climate controls or other vehicle systems can take a driver’s eyes and hands away from the road, even if only for a few seconds.
- External distractions–Truck drivers are exposed to various external distractions, such as roadside billboards, accidents, or construction zones. Looking away from the road to observe these distractions can lead to accidents.
- Stress and multitasking–Tight delivery schedules and pressure to meet deadlines often lead truck drivers to multitask or focus on work-related tasks, such as checking delivery details while driving.
Regulatory Controls of Distracted Driving
Federal and state regulations impose strict rules on commercial truck drivers to address the dangers of distracted driving. Key regulations include:
Ban on Handheld Devices
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) prohibits truck drivers from texting or using handheld phones while driving. Violations can result in hefty fines and disqualification from operating commercial vehicles.
Hours of Service Regulations
The FMCSA enforces hours of service (HOS) rules to combat fatigue, limiting the hours a truck driver can operate without rest. Violating these rules can result in penalties for drivers and their employers.
Employer Accountability
Trucking companies may be liable for distracted driving accidents caused by their drivers, especially if they fail to enforce safety policies or encourage unsafe practices to meet deadlines.
Preventing Distracted Driving Among Truck Drivers
Preventing distracted driving requires efforts from both truck drivers and their employers. Some effective prevention measures include:
- Driver training–Comprehensive training programs can help truck drivers recognize and avoid distractions. Emphasizing the dangers of multitasking and staying focused on the road is critical.
- Technology solutions–Advanced technology, such as lane departure warning systems and driver monitoring systems, can alert truck drivers when their attention strays or when they exhibit signs of fatigue.
- Enforcing safety policies–Trucking companies must establish and enforce clear policies regarding electronic device use and other distractions. Regular audits and accountability measures can ensure compliance.
- Taking breaks–Drivers should be encouraged to take regular breaks to eat, hydrate, and rest. Scheduled breaks are mandated by federal law and can help minimize the risk of distracted driving.
In short, most truck accidents are preventable, and distracted truckers pose serious risks to everyone on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving truck accident, Pringle & Herigstad is here to help.
Our experienced attorneys can investigate the circumstances of the crash, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started with an experienced truck accident attorney.
