Truck Drivers and Distracted Driving: a Deadly Combination

Truck accidents are all too common on the roads of South Carolina and all other states across the country. Because these vehicles are so large, they are much more difficult to stop and are more susceptible to overturning when struck or making turns at high rates of speed. A deadly combination involving truck drivers is when they are distracted when behind the wheel of their rigs.

When a truck driver gets behind the wheel of his or her rig, he or she is responsible for safely operating the vehicle at all times. This stops when they do so while distracted. Distracted driving is defined as any activity that is performed while driving that removes the driver’s focus from the task of driving.

Distracted driving performed by a truck driver can include any of the following activities:

• Talking on or texting using a mobile phone or tablet
• Using a dispatching device installed in the truck
• Reading a map, book, newspaper or any other item
• Changing the radio stations on the truck radio
• Talking with a passenger
• Reading a billboard on the side of the road
• Eating, drinking, shaving or applying makeup
• Getting dressed or changed

When a truck driver becomes distracted, he or she increases the likelihood that he or she will be involved in an accident. They will have less time to make a decision in an emergency or when traffic stops in front of them. They will also have less time to notice obstacles in the roadway. All of this can lead to tragic accidents.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in South Carolina, it is in your best interest to seek medical attention immediately, have everything documented and consult an attorney. This is the best way to protect your rights as the victim involved in the crash.