Distracted driving is a factor that contributes to a significant percentage of truck accidents. A 2009 study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that 71% of large-truck crashes occurred when a driver was engaging in another activity while behind the wheel.
So, how do truck drivers get distracted?
The use of technology
Drivers rely on several in-cab technological devices when operating a truck. These include the GPS/navigation systems that provide route optimization, Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that automatically record driving time and Hours of Service (HOS) and smartphones to manage logistics and stay connected.
These devices are advantageous, as they eliminate the need of using physicl maps or drivers manually calculating and filling out paper logbooks. Besides, they significantly reduce fuel expenses and ensure drivers comply with FMCSA regulations.
However, they can also be a form of distraction. For instance, when a driver interacts with a dispatching device while driving, they take their eyes off the road, hand off the wheel and mind away from the task of driving.
Companies often have strict rules that prohibit interacting with devices when in motion, for example, by using mobile blocking devices and driver-facing dash cams. But some don’t, resulting in drivers texting, reading emails, checking dispatch routes or even scrolling social media when driving.
Eating and drinking
Many truck drivers, especially those with unrealistic deadlines, eat and drink while driving. Although this is viewed as a way of saving time, it’s dangerous. Eating and drinking manually, visually and cognitively distract a driver.
Anything can happen in the few seconds a driver is unwrapping food, looking down to dip fries in sauce or cleaning crumbs.
A truck driver who is not paying attention to driving can cause an accident. If you sustained an injury in a truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover your losses.
