Texting Truckers: Police Struggling to Crack Down

by | Dec 3, 2015

Many people are aware that texting and driving is a recipe for disaster, especially when it comes to commercial trucks that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Because tractor-trailers can cause devastating damage in an accident, commercial drivers are held to a higher standard and face tougher laws. However, many truckers continue to drive with dangerous distractions, and police are finding that it is not easy to stop them.

Washington, D.C. Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial trucks weighing up to 40 tons take a longer time to come to a stop than conventional vehicles, which is why drivers must be alert and prepared to brake at all times. This means they are not allowed to call, text, or do anything that takes their visual, cognitive, and manual attention off the road. Unfortunately, state police are aware that truckers violate these rules all the time. The difficulty is spotting it.

Since truck drivers are seated much higher up than other vehicles, they have an easier time concealing their phones by holding them down low. This makes it difficult for police to see whether an infraction is taking place. Another challenge police face is radio communication. Because truck drivers can pick up police chatter on their radios, they know when troopers are nearby and can curb their behavior.

Despite the difficulties troopers face, they remain committed to cracking down on texting and driving. In 2011, 1.3 million collisions occurred involving cell phone usage. Thousands of fatalities are recorded every year, along with more than 400,000 injuries.

In District of Columbia, the use of handheld cell phones, including texting, is banned for drivers of all ages. This ban includes bus drivers and commercial truck drivers.

To learn more about highway safety laws in Washington, D.C., please visit the Governors Highway Safety Association® online.

Truck Accident Attorneys in Washington, D.C.

Texting and driving is against the law for all motorists, including truck drivers. If you have been injured in a collision with a distracted driver, or suffered the loss of a loved one in a preventable accident, we urge you to consult with the legal team at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, Siegel, P.C. Our Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyers may be able to help you obtain compensation for costs related to your accident, ensuring that negligent drivers are held responsible for their illegal and unsafe behavior.

To request a free consultation with our firm today, contact us today!

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