Charles J Argento, Accident and Injury Attorney
Charles J Argento, accident and injury attorney

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Big fines for distracted big rig drivers

On Behalf of | May 1, 2019 | blog

Tractor trailer trucks line Texas highways as they deliver goods ranging from produce to cars. Even when unloaded, big rigs can weigh more than 20 times as much as your passenger vehicle. Devastating injuries often result when 18-wheelers and cars collide. At Charles J. Argento, we understand that big truck accidents are different from regular car crashes and fight to get clients the compensation needed to pay for medical bills and long-term expenses.

Trucking Truth reports that distracted drivers are more than 23 percent more likely to become involved in an accident than if they remain focused on the road. The FMCSA prohibits reaching for, holding, dialing texting and reading mobile devices while driving. Hands-free use means that dialing must not require more than a single button press. Although truck drivers must keep in touch with their employers, texting on dispatch devices is not distinguished from other texting devices, which makes it prohibited.

Drivers caught driving while distracted can receive fines up to $2,750 and their employers up to $11,000 if they allow or require hand-held device use while driving. These are serious violations and can negatively affect the company’s Safety Measurement System ratings. Several states have no bans regarding the use of hand-held devices while driving. However, drivers engaged in interstate commerce must obey the FMCSA distracted driving rules, regardless of their location.

Drivers and trucking companies must adhere to many of the same road rules as everyone else. Disregarding them can result in catastrophic, multi-car accidents. If you or a loved one sustained injuries as a result of a distracted big rig driver, you might have grounds for a claim. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.