Distractions are unhealthy in several aspects, including truck driving. In recent times, several truck accidents have been associated with distracted driving. Like other vehicle drivers, truck drivers engage in multitasking, forgetting they driving a huge vehicle that is capable of wrecking significant damage if mishandled. For that reason, they need to be extra careful and responsible when driving these beasts on the road.
Distracted driving is more dangerous and fatal when it involves truck and tractor drivers. There are several types of distractions that result in head-on collisions, leaving some victims dead and others injured in most cases. If you have been involved in a recent truck accident caused by distraction and negligence, it is important to see a traffic collision personal injury lawyer.
Distracted Truck Driving And What Makes It Dangerous
Unlike small vehicles, trucks are huge and quite complex to operate. Hence, a driver has to fully conscious of his movements and coordinations when driving a truck, paying attention to the vehicle’s operable parts and the surrounding environment. More responsibility falls on the driver’s shoulder to keep himself and other people safe when on the road.
Interestingly, an average 18-wheeler has a weight and length of 80,000 pounds and 74 feet, respectively. These specifications can increase, depending on the brand, model, and options. With such immense weight, a truck collision at full speed is always fatal, especially if the other vehicle is smaller.
Truck accidents can have truly devastating consequences, which is why it’s so important to remain alert on the roads—whether you’re driving a truck or simply driving near one. And sleep deprivation can really be a dangerous factor to this. Here’s How To Decrease Sleeping Behind The Wheel
Types Of Truck Driver Distractions
Common truck driver distractions are grouped into three parts: visual distractions, manual distractions, and cognitive distractions.
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Visual Distractions
Do not take your eyes off the road. You can’t foresee what would happen in a split second. Unfortunately, many drivers get distracted by what they see. Being visually distracted while driving can lead to various road accidents. We have seen or heard it happen, and have also watched it in the movies.
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Manual Distractions
In this case, the driver lets go of the steering wheel to attend to something else. Most often, manual distractions go hand in hand with visual distractions. The moment the driver can’t reach for a particular item, he or she takes their eyes off the road.
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Cognitive Distractions
A driver may have his eyes on the road, hand on the steering wheel, but disconnects from reality. It seems like he sees the road; however, he is absent-minded. Inattentional blindness can cause on-head collisions.
Under these three types of distractions, there is a subset that shows various sources of distractions, which include the following:
- Texting and talking while driving
- Use of electronic devices
- Reaching for items or controls
- Interaction with passengers and pets
- Eating, drinking, and smoking while on the road
- Concentrating on people, objects, or events while driving
- Impairment resulting from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue.
Drivers involved in truck accidents must first seek medical attention if they are severely injured. Even when they appear fine, they need a doctor to validate such claims. The next line of action is to contact a truck driver distraction lawyer who will represent them in obtaining compensation.
