Operating a truck is much different than operating a smaller passenger vehicle. Trucks often come equipped with several gears and numerous blind spots throughout the vehicle. Therefore, extensive training often comes with any trucking or hauling service, to attempt to curb the number of accidents which occur. However, any type of training will not prevent all accidents from occurring, especially given outside distractions, such as cell phones. While most companies completely ban cell phone use while operating a truck, this use can still happen. If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident caused by cell phone use, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries.

The evolution of the mobile phone has offered a new way to do business, communicate, and stay connected to the world at the press of a button. However, along with this ease of connectivity also comes the potential for disaster while driving. If you drive down any major highway in Texas, you likely view dozens of drivers who are on the phone – whether it be chatting via Bluetooth, handheld, or unfortunately even texting while driving. This need to be constantly attached to our phone has transcended most safety measures, especially while driving.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration recently published rules which specifically prohibit interstate truck drivers, and drivers who transport certain hazardous materials from texting or using hand-held mobile phones while operating their vehicles. The research completed by these groups, indicates that the odds of being involved in a “safety-critical event” are 23.2 times greater for commercial motor vehicle drivers who are texting (as compared to those who are not). Taking your eyes off the road for just 4 seconds to type in a name, even if you are just pulling up the name to make a call, can lead to devastating results.

The victims of truck accidents caused by cell phone use often had little chance to prevent the accident from occurring, and may be forced to deal with lifelong injuries. Trucks weigh several times more than ordinary motor vehicles, and any accident could lead to crippling injuries. A claim for truck accident injuries should include the following:

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation expenses
• Lost wages
• Future earnings
• Pain and suffering

An experienced personal injury attorney will help you in projecting out these costs and calculating the full amount of your claim.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck accident caused by cell phone use, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in handling truck accidents and will work tirelessly to ensure the negligent party is held liable for any injuries they caused. Distracted driving is dangerous for the operator of any vehicle, but even more so for truck operators who are in charge of large vehicles which may inflict tremendous damage. Contact our Beaumont office today for your initial free consultation.