Distracted Driving a Major Cause of Commercial Trucking Accidents
It’s far too common for a truck driver to get distracted behind the wheel, even though his or her attention should be focused on the road. When that happens, unfortunately, the consequences can be devastating. With up to 80,000 pounds in tow, even a brief lapse in concentration can lead to loss of control of the vehicle. A single mishap can have far-reaching impact.
The Increase in Commercial Trucking Accidents in the Last Decade
The National Safety Council reports that, while large truck accidents were down for the year, there has been a nearly 10% increase in the number of semi, tractor-trailer, big rig and 18-wheeler accidents in the last decade. While a significant factor in this increase is the larger number of commercial trucks on the nation’s roadways, the fact remains that that likelihood of a collision with a large commercial vehicle is greater than it was 10 years ago.
The Ways that a Commercial Truck Driver May Be Distracted Behind the Wheel
When operating a big rig, drivers typically have three ways that they can lose focus:
- Something takes their eyes off the road
- They take their hands off the wheel
- They take their mind off the details of driving
Visual distractions can often happen subconsciously, as a driver takes in a billboard, a crash scene or a roadside attraction. A driver may also look away from the road to check a map or GPS or look at shipping documents.
The common manual distractions (taking hands off the wheel) include using handheld devices, adjusting the radio, eating or drinking behind the wheel or reaching for any other object.
Mental loss of focus may stem from fatigue, stress or what’s often referred to as “highway hypnosis,” where the driver becomes lulled by the monotony of the road.
Let Us Help Protect Your Rights after a Commercial Truck Accident
At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we have more than 26 years of experience protecting the rights of personal injury victims in Harlingen, McAllen, Brownsville and Houston, across Texas and nationwide, including people who have been hurt in any type of commercial trucking accident. We have a comprehensive understanding of the things that need to be done to help you maximize your recovery. We will use our considerable experience, skill, knowledge and resources to help you get the outcome you want. Free call, text or chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week–https://delapazlaw.com/.
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