Distracted driving is a hazard and a significant cause of fatal accidents among motorists and truck drivers. Lawmakers nationwide recognize that it is an important issue, and most states have distracted driving laws to prohibit handheld communication devices and other distractions while behind the wheel. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks make accidents particularly deadly.
When you are in a collision caused by a negligent truck driver, you could be eligible to collect compensation to cover your losses. For more information about filing a claim after distracted driving truck accidents in Houston, contact a dedicated attorney.
Common Forms of Truck Driver Distractions
Some of the most common forms of truck driver distractions include the following:
- Eating food or drinking beverages
- Grooming
- Watching videos or accessing web pages
- Reading maps or using a navigation device
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting the radio station
- Using a citizen’s band or CB radio
- Smartphones
Driving distractions fall within three categories: manual, visual, and cognitive. Manual and visual take the driver’s eyes off the road or hands off the wheel, while cognitive distractions cause the trucker’s mind to wander. Any distraction could lead to a truck collision in Houston.
Federal and State Laws Hold Commercial Truck Drivers to a Higher Standard
Federal and state laws hold commercial truck drivers to a higher standard than other motorists because they drive for a living and are professionals. According to the instruction provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, federal law prohibits truckers from sending or reading text messages while operating commercial vehicles.
The regulation also includes accessing web pages or using a device requiring they press more than a single button to initiate or terminate communication or use of the handheld device. A knowledgeable attorney understands distracted driving laws and could apply them to a truck crash case in Houston.
Timeline for Filing a Claim for Damages After a Distracted Driving Truck Accident
The statute of limitations sets the timeline the plaintiff in injury cases has to commence legal action. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, the petitioner has two years to file a civil lawsuit against a negligent truck driver in most cases. There are a few exceptions for juveniles and the discovery rule.
When the injured party is under 18 during the accident, the statute’s clock will not begin until their 18th birthday and expires when they turn 20. When the plaintiff does not know they sustained injuries the day of the accident, the time starts running the day they reasonably discover the damages. A seasoned lawyer could answer questions on tort statutes during a consultation after a distracted driving truck wreck in Houston.
Call a Skilled Attorney with Questions About Distracted Driving Truck Accidents in Houston
A crash with a distracted trucker can leave you traumatized and with severe and life-altering injuries. When there is evidence they caused the accident because of negligence, tort laws could entitle you to collect compensation from the liable party.
A hard-working lawyer experienced in distracted driving truck accidents in Houston could investigate and help collect the evidence needed to establish fault and recover a fair award. If you need help after a wreck with a distracted trucker, call today to schedule a consultation with our firm.
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