With the number of devices and other things that ask for our attention constantly growing, the problem of distracted driving only seems to worsen. Many drivers in South Carolina are guilty of occasionally not paying attention while behind the wheel, which is a problem unto itself. However, when a commercial truck driver fails to pay attention to the road and causes a truck accident, the consequences can be all the more devastating.
If you were injured or affected by a truck accident caused by distracted driving, you have legal options to hold the responsible person or parties responsible as our South Carolina truck accident lawyer explains.
How South Carolina Truck Drivers Get Distracted![How Truck Drivers Get Distracted]()
Driving a tractor-trailer for a living is a demanding job. It involves a lot more than just sitting in the driver’s seat for a few hours per day. Truck drivers have many things that compete for their attention while on the road, all while piloting a vehicle that can approach 80,000 pounds or more when fully loaded with freight. Some of the most common distractions drivers face include:
- Operating a GPS. Semi drivers often have new routes to manage and may be tempted to operate a navigation system while in motion, which is never a safe thing to do.
- Texting while driving. The temptation to send or receive texts is strong for many drivers. Texting and driving is illegal in most states for everyone, and truck drivers are specifically prohibited to do so by federal law.
- Talking on the phone or radio. Truck drivers are in regular communication with dispatch centers, customers, and other drivers via cell phone, or by radio, but when it takes attention from driving, the risk of an accident is greatly increased.
- Eating and drinking. Long hours behind the wheel and tight deadlines mean many are tempted to eat meals while driving. Drivers may take one hand from the wheel, or even attempt to steer a 40-ton truck at highway speeds with nothing but a knee.
- Reading or writing. 18-wheeler drivers frequently have a significant amount of paperwork to deal with, and the temptation to read over documents or even write and sign things while driving can be strong.
There are countless other distractions that can lead to an 18-wheeler accident. For instance: facing and talking to a passenger, adjusting mirrors, or digging through personal belongings. Again, bear in mind that a semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger vehicle weighs in around 3,500 pounds. When the 18 wheeler driver’s attention wanders, and the truck strikes that passenger vehicle from behind at any speed, the sheer mismatch of force can cause life-altering injuries or loss of life in the blink of an eye.
SC Law Does Not Allow Semi Truck Drivers To Use Cell Phones While Driving
Our courts recognize the danger in using a cell phone while driving, especially when it comes to commercial vehicles. That’s why South Carolina laws prohibit truck drivers from using their cell phones while on the road.
Further, federal regulations restrict the use of hand-held phones by commercial vehicle drivers. While the government imposes fines when these regulations are violated, the fines do not account for the harm done to an injured person or grieving family. That is left to our civil justice system and the various tractor trailer insurance policies that are designed to pay for what the law calls "damages."
Trucking Companies Have a Responsibility to Prevent Distracted Driving
Some trucking companies have policies in place that prohibit truckers from using cell phones altogether. However, having a policy is one thing; enforcing it is another. With multiple interstates running through Columbia SC and the rest of our state, companies that permit their drivers to mix cell phones and 18-wheelers are increasing the risk of harm to thousands of innocent people in much smaller vehicles every day.
If a trucking company fails to enforce a distracted driving policy and ensure its drivers are properly trained and practicing safe driving habits, the company (and its insurance provider) can be held liable for the damage caused in a distracted driving semi-wreck.
Proving a Distracted Driving Accident Case in South Carolina
There are ways to prove the semi-truck operator was driving while distracted at the time of the accident. The best place to gather evidence is often the scene, or from the vehicle itself. We work with a collision reconstructionist to analyze how the crash occurred, what could have been done to prevent it, and whether the truck driver's actions point toward inattention. Likewise, an examination of the commercial vehicle, its "black box," and the cab may provide clues on not only how the accident happened, but why. Cell phone and other electronic device records can similarly give us insight on whether the truck driver's full attention was on the road in the moments leading up to the collision.
In some cases, there will be a witness who saw the driver not minding the road. And in other situations, there will be video from traffic cameras or a nearby business with outdoor cameras that capture the crash, including the driver’s actions.
Get Legal Help After a Car Accident With a Semi-Truck
An accident between a commercial truck and a passenger vehicle or pedestrian can be life-changing for the victims and their families. My law office has handled a number of semi truck accidents across South Carolina, and are here to help you in any way possible. These are serious cases, and it's important to have a truck accident attorney who understands the laws, regulations, and legal strategies unique to trucking cases.
Our job is to help, all while treating you as a member of our own family. To begin receiving answers, and hopefully take some of the burden from your shoulders. Our offices are conveniently located in Columbia and Myrtle Beach, and we have been proudly servicing clients throughout the surrounding areas. Contact us online today or call us at 803-790-2800 (Columbia, SC) / 843-427-2800 (Myrtle Beach, SC).
