Driving when distracted is dangerous for any driver. However, the severity of the accident and injuries that victims suffer can be magnified when the driver of an 80,000 pound truck is distracted and causes a truck wreck. Because of the long hours that truckers drive day after day, distracted driving remains a major cause of wrecks that cause victims to suffer life-altering injuries or deaths.
What Is the FMCSA Rule on Using a Cellphone While Driving a Truck?
Texting or talking on a cellphone are major ways that truckers engage in distracted driving. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a truck driver who is dialing a cellphone is six times more likely to be involved in a crash or near crash. He is 23 times more likely to cause a wreck or near wreck if he is texting. Because of these dangers, the FMCSA prohibits truck drivers from engaging in the following actions while driving a truck:
- Holding a cellphone to make a telephone call
- Dialing on a cellphone, which includes pressing more than one button
- Reaching for a cellphone in a way that results in the trucker not remaining upright while driving
- Texting
- Reading a text or other electronic message
- Drafting or typing a message on a cellphone
Truck drivers are permitted to use hands-free devices only if they are in close proximity to the driver.
What Are Other Ways That Truckers Engage in Distracted Driving?
Truck drivers can also engage in other distracted driving actions that results in them taking their minds and hands off the wheel and causing an accident. Other dangerous practices include:
- Eating and drinking
- Reading a map or a GPS
- Engaging in personal grooming
- Adjusting the radio or other instrument controls
- Watching a video
- Talking to co-drivers
- Searching the Internet
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Truck Accident?
If you've been injured in a truck accident you need to speak with an experienced truck accident injury attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Colleyville office directly at 817.485.8888 to schedule your free consultation.
We help injured victims throughout Texas including Arlington, North Richland, Grapevine, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, Irving and all points in between.
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