How Distracted Driving Increases Baltimore Truck Accident Risks
Tanker trucks, tractor-trailers, and other commercial vehicles are a common sight on I-95, I-70, and other major highways in our area. Operating one of these big rigs is a demanding job that requires the truck driver’s full attention. When they are distracted, even for just a few seconds, it increases the risk of truck accidents in Baltimore.
Distracted driving continues to be one of the top causes of truck crashes, which can have devastating impacts on other motorists. Our experienced Maryland truck accident lawyers explain common types of trucker distractions and your rights in holding trucking companies accountable.
Common Distractions Among Baltimore Truckers That Increase Crash Risks
The Maryland Highway Safety Office reports that distracted driving poses major risks throughout the state. Related crashes and collisions claim the lives of over 200 people each year and leave nearly 25,000 others suffering serious injuries. Unfortunately, it is particularly common and dangerous among truckers.
Operating a tractor-trailer requires the driver’s constant attention, but there are numerous things that can distract drivers. These include:
- Cell phone use, including sending or reading texts, making calls, or checking apps, while driving.
- Onboard computers and dispatch screens, used for route updates or logging hours.
- Making manual adjustments to GPS and navigation systems while on the road.
- Music or entertainment systems, which encourage multitasking behind the wheel.
- Eating or drinking while driving, a frequent cause of distraction during long-haul trips.
Healthline warns that highway hypnosis is another common distraction among truckers that can put everyone on the road at risk. It happens due to fatigue and inattention when driving long distances and on monotonous sections of highway.
Holding Trucking Companies Accountable When Baltimore Distracted Driving Truck Accidents Happen
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) advises that distracted truck drivers pose significant risks on roads throughout the country. When a crash happens, it can prove devastating for motorists nearby.
If you get injured in a distracted driving truck accident in Baltimore, you have the right to seek compensation for your property damages, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and lost income during recovery. However, trucking companies and their insurers often move quickly to protect themselves. They may:
- Delay investigations, hoping crucial data like phone records or black-box logs disappear.
- Deny that the trucker was distracted, despite evidence showing phone or GPS use.
- Hide prior safety violations, including past incidents of distracted driving.
- Blame the victim, citing Maryland’s contributory negligence rule to avoid paying compensation.
Our experienced Baltimore truck accident lawyers can uncover the truth. By requesting phone logs, dash-cam footage, and company communication records, we can prove when a driver wasn’t paying attention and build a strong case for compensation.
Injured Due To A Distracted Trucker? Contact Our Experienced Maryland Truck Accident Lawyers
Distracted driving-related truck accidents pose significant threats to Baltimore drivers. At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we protect your rights when dealing with trucking companies and fight to get you the total amount you need to cover your losses.
Get our experienced Maryland truck accident lawyers on your side. Give us a call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.
Sources:
zerodeathsmd.gov/road-safety/distracted-driving/
healthline.com/health/highway-hypnosis#causes
fmcsa.dot.gov/ourroads/distracted-driving
