Distracted Driving Truck Accidents

Distracted driving truck accidents can result from any action that diverts a truck driver’s focus away from the road. Since trucks are likely the biggest, heaviest vehicles on the road, distracted driving truck accidents can cause serious injuries to other drivers and passengers and extensive damage to other vehicles. If you’re involved in a traffic accident with a truck, call the best distracted driver truck accident attorney at RAM Law in New Jersey.

What Does Distracted Driving Look Like in Trucks?

Driving a truck while engaged in any activity that diverts the driver’s attention from the job of driving is considered distracted truck driving. Big trucks, like the commercial trucks and cement trucks you see daily on the road, are heavier than other vehicles, posing a danger if a distracted driver isn’t able to respond quickly to hazards.

These distracted driving truck accidents can be caused by a variety of seemingly common behaviors, including:

• Using a mobile phone
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the radio
• Using a GPS device or a CB radio

If you’re involved in a truck accident, contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. RAM Law in New Jersey has helped the victims of distracted trucking accidents get compensated fairly for their injuries and damages. Don’t rely just on your insurance company; find an attorney with direct experience for the best outcome.

Why Do Distracted Driving Truck Accidents Happen?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, distracted driving accidents make up 71 percent of all truck accidents. Using a mobile phone while driving multiplies the risk of an accident by four. Driving while distracted impairs a driver’s ability to detect, process and respond to information.

Distracted truck driving accidents can occur anywhere, but they’re more likely to happen on:

• Highways
• City streets
• Construction zones

The causes of distracted trucking accidents vary, but may point to improperly trained truck drivers, which may involve trucking company negligence.

Other factors place the blame squarely on the truck driver, including:

• Negligence. Truck driver negligence is a common cause if the accident occurred due to a distraction.
• Fatigue. Tired drivers find it difficult to concentrate on the road and are more likely to engage in extraneous activities, increasing the risk of distracted driving truck accidents.
• Common distractions. If the driver was using a mobile phone or a GPS, eating or drinking while driving, fault becomes easier to prove for a distracted driver truck accident attorney.
• Aggressive driving. If the distracted truck driver was also speeding or handling his vehicle in an aggressive or reckless manner, the truck driver is usually at fault.
• Passenger distractions. Passengers can divert a truck driver’s attention, especially if they’re involved in distracting activities.

Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Attorney?

You can’t get what’s coming to you if you don’t know where to start. A truck accident attorney ensures that your legal rights are protected and that you receive full compensation. A distracted driving truck accident attorney navigates the complex legal process, analyzing the specifics of your case.

Hire a distracted driver truck accident attorney for their:

• Knowledge. Truck accident lawyers are well-versed in complex trucking regulations in New Jersey.
• Investigative resources. A truck accident lawyer has the means to conduct a comprehensive investigation, creating a compelling argument by working with specialists, gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses.
• Negotiation skills. They bargain with your insurance provider and other parties for a just settlement for you.
• Litigation experience. To make sure you get the compensation you deserve, they argue your case persuasively and defend your rights.
• Support and guidance. A truck accident can be an emotionally draining experience, so having a qualified attorney on your side gives you peace of mind throughout the process.

Your RAM Law attorney reviews all the details of your truck accident to prove that the distracted behavior caused the accident.

Evidence in the case may involve:

• Witness statements. People who saw the driver moments before the accident can often tell whether the driver was paying attention.
• Cell phone records. Cell phone data reveals if the driver was on the phone or if calls or texts were active at the time of the accident.
• Video footage. If the accident was recorded on video, it may determine whether the driver was distracted or driving aggressively at the time of the accident.
• Black box data. The black boxes in commercial trucks capture data about the speed, braking and other aspects of the driver’s behavior, which may show signs of driving distracted.
• Police report. Reports from the police give important details about the accident’s circumstances that were gathered at the scene of the accident.
• Expert testimony. Expert witnesses who have experience with accident reconstructions may testify about the accident’s causes and how the driver’s actions played a role.

What Should I Do After a Distracted Driving Truck Accident?

Being in an accident with a truck may result in damages, injuries, recovery time, lost productivity and court time. While your impulse may tell you to accost the driver, stay calm and stay safe.

The steps to take immediately after your accident include:

1. Call the police. Report the accident immediately. Give the police accurate and comprehensive information about what happened.
2. Get medical attention. If you or anyone else involved in the collision may be hurt, don’t delay medical care.
3. Exchange information. Get the truck driver’s contact and insurance details. Get witness information, if possible.
4. Document the scene. Take pictures and video of the accident scene, the damage and any injuries, if you’re able.
5. Contact a truck accident lawyer. You need legal assistance with your case regarding a truck accident. Call RAM Law.

Discuss your distracted driving truck accident case with an experienced truck accident attorney. A lawyer from RAM Law handles the investigation, negotiations and litigation to make sure you get what you deserve. In the event of a distracted trucking accident, contact RAM Law in New Jersey.