Truck drivers as with all drivers have many distractions behind the wheel including mobile phones, radio, and navigation systems. Truck drivers spend hours at a time on the road, often over the course of several days. Truck drivers may do this to satisfy outrageous schedules or to reach financial goals. The longer a truck driver is on the road, the more exhausted he or she becomes, causing the driver to be a higher risk to distracted driving. In trying to satisfy a busy schedule, drivers may be tempted to eat or drink while driving instead of taking a break. This can take the driver’s eyes off the road and hands off the wheel, increasing their chances of causing a collision.
Spending long hours on the road may tempt a truck driver to use a cell phone without stopping the truck or without using a hands-free device. The FMCSA or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, was established in 2000 within the Department of Transportation with their primary mission to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries. The FMCSA suggests “no reaching, no holding, no dialing, no texting, and no reading” as their way to prevent distracted driving in truck drivers.
If you’ve been injured due to the negligence of a distracted truck driver, contact our West Virginia
attorneys today.
Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.
We offer a free initial consultation at our office in the Manchin Professional Building — our home since 1983 — conveniently located in Fairmont.
If you are unable to visit our firm, we can come to your home or hospital room.
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