Distracted driving is a problem for all kinds of drivers. Many people operating their own vehicles struggle to put down their phones for long enough to reach their destination safely.
Commercial truck drivers are held to a much higher standard in traffic than those in control of standard passenger vehicles. Despite the strict regulations and increased demands of operating a commercial vehicle, distracted driving remains a major safety concern for semi-truck operators and other commercial motorists.
Federal rules prohibit device use
Most states have now adopted distracted driving and hands-free laws. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) adopted a no-text rule that applies in all 50 states. Under the no-text rule, commercial drivers should not manually handle devices while operating a commercial vehicle.
Despite those rules, drivers often have to interact with their dispatch devices provided by their employers. They must respond to messages from clients or employers. Some drivers also use their personal devices while driving, especially if they want to stay connected to loved ones.
A few seconds of distraction can cause devastating crashes even when the vehicle involved is a standard passenger vehicle. The distraction of a commercial driver could lead to them causing a devastating override collision or failing to notice someone in their blind spots.
When there are suspicions of regulatory violations, those affected by commercial collisions may have the right to file an insurance claim or even grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Holding a truck driver or their employer accountable for a semi-truck collision can be beneficial for those affected by unsafe traffic habits.