States across the country continue to adopt statutes and raise awareness about the severe dangers of distracted driving, including the commercial trucking industry. When collisions involve heavy commercial vehicles, such as 18-wheelers, the effects can be catastrophic.
If you were in a truck crash with a distracted trucker, you must hold them responsible for their actions. Call a compassionate and experienced lawyer about distracted driving truck accidents in Henderson to learn more.
The federal government continuously conducts studies to determine the risks associated with driving hazards, such as trucker distractions. According to studies, the likelihood of distracted semi-truck operators making errors—lane deviation and other critical safety events—is nearly six times higher than others.
The rules and guidelines provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration restrict commercial truckers from using hand-held cell phones while driving. That includes holding the device to make phone calls, text, read, or do anything requiring them to press more than one button. Truckers must also refrain from reaching for the phone while driving. They may use the speakerphone function or earpieces with voice-activated dialing.
Penalties for violations under the regulations include fines of up to $2,750 for truckers and as much as $11,000 for employers who allow drivers to use them while operating vehicles. Commercial truck drivers receiving numerous violations are subject to harsh penalties, including disqualification from carrying a commercial driver’s license and losing their jobs. An attorney experienced with distracted driving truck collisions in Henderson could collect the evidence to review and determine compliance with the regulations.
Accidents may happen due to a range of distractions, including eating food, scanning the web, and daydreaming. Therefore, various types of evidence and documentation could help create a strong claim for damages, depending on the case specifics. Some examples of evidence to establish fault include:
After reviewing the case, a skilled Henderson attorney could answer specific questions about building a powerful claim following a truck crash due to distracted driving.
Collisions involving 18-wheelers are often severe, leaving other motorists with severe and life-threatening injuries and potentially permanent disabilities. Therefore, the settlement amount can be substantial. After proving liability, the court may award damages for:
A skilled legal professional in Henderson could determine the value of damages undergone in a truck collision because of distracted driving.
Driver distractions are dangerous for all motorists, but when they involve truckers, the outcome has the potential to be life-altering or deadly. When truckers text or drive with other distractions, they place themselves and everyone around them at risk of severe harm. The size and weight of heavy commercial vehicles make crashes caused by distracted truck operators particularly serious.
Unfortunately, the consequences of entirely avoidable critical safety events can be catastrophic. Schedule an appointment with a dedicated lawyer seasoned in cases resulting from distracted driving truck accidents in Henderson. Call our attorneys to review your case and legal options.