Distracted driving is a danger to everyone on the roadways. When a distracted driver is responsible for maneuvering a massive tractor-trailer, the consequences can be catastrophic. Distracted driving diverts a driver’s attention from the road, making it difficult to notice obstacles and slowing reaction time. The size and weight of a large commercial truck make stopping much slower when brakes are applied. The combination of these factors can lead to collisions with life-altering injuries and even fatalities.
Distracted driving truck accidents in Houston are a common cause of severe injury and loss of life. If you or a loved one was injured in a truck crash caused by a distracted driver, a skilled truck accident lawyer could help you get compensation for your injuries.
Examples of Distracted Driving
Commercial truck drivers spend long hours behind the wheel, leading to boredom and fatigue. Distractions inside the vehicle can be a source of relief. While illegal in Texas, texting while driving is one of the most common causes of distracted driving incidents. However, there are many other ways Houston truck drivers can become distracted and cause an accident.
Any activity that draws a truck driver’s attention away from the road is considered distracted driving. Some examples include:
- Interacting with passengers
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Grooming
- Consuming food or beverages
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
- Using in-cabin technologies
Commercial truck drivers have a responsibility to keep their attention on the road and the surrounding environment at all times. Not doing so violates state and federal regulations, making a clear case for negligence that can harm other motorists and passengers.
Liability and Compensation
The size and weight of a large truck can cause catastrophic and often deadly injuries in a crash with an ordinary vehicle. Victims may suffer severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries. Long recovery times and extensive medical care are typically necessary, leading to excessive trauma and hefty medical expenses for injured individuals. Fatal truck accidents leave grieving families facing long-term financial burdens. Fortunately, responsible parties can be held accountable for the damages they cause.
Determining liability is crucial when pursuing compensation for damages in Houston distracted driving truck accidents. An experienced attorney could help injured individuals gather evidence such as driver logs, phone records, witness testimony, and accident scene analysis to determine fault. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, the driver, the trucking company, and manufacturers of defective trucking equipment may be found accountable for injuries.
Compensation in commercial truck accidents caused by an inattentive driver depends on the cause of the crash and the severity of the injuries. Injured individuals may receive compensation for medical costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and necessary lifestyle changes to assist with permanent disabilities. In the event of a fatal truck accident, the victim’s family can pursue compensation for loss of companionship, loss of household income, emotional distress, and funeral and burial expenses. A skilled attorney could negotiate with the trucking company’s insurer to ensure victims receive fair compensation for all damages related to the accident.
Contact a Houston Attorney to Learn About Your Legal Options After a Distracted Driving Truck Accident
Distracted driving truck accidents in Houston result in catastrophic consequences for innocent motorists and passengers. If you or a loved one suffered injuries because a negligent truck driver was not paying attention to the road, you have the right to pursue compensation. An experienced lawyer could help you file a claim to ease your financial stress and hold the at-fault driver accountable for their actions.
The personal injury attorneys at Schechter Shaffer & Harris are prepared to fight for your rights to compensation following an accident. We have substantial experience investigating truck accidents and holding responsible parties liable. If you have been injured, do not hesitate to call our law firm to explore your legal options for pursuing compensation.
