In New Jersey and elsewhere, distracted driving is a major, dangerous problem. The problem only seems to be getting worse as more drivers have access to smartphones and in-vehicle technology, such as the internet and apps. While many drivers, including truck drivers, do not believe that using their smartphones while driving is dangerous, drivers who are distracted are more likely to cause accidents.
Distracted driving accidents exact a high cost due to the fact that people may not focused on the road in front of them. Even drunk or impaired drivers often at least try to steer or brake in order to avoid accidents, though their reaction times may be too slow. Essentially, this means that a distracted driver may strike another vehicle while going full speed. When it comes to trucks, a distracted driving accident could cause major delays for the employer, the employer’s client and the fleet itself.
Many businesses recognize that distracted driving is a huge problem. As a result, they are working to prevent the behavior. There are apps that can help assess a driver’s risk factor using a variety of factors, such as a change in routine, whether the driver has had enough sleep and if he or she is driving during high-traffic times. Other in-vehicle technology can help alert employers to high-risk situations as they occur.
While accidents involving passenger vehicles can result in serious injuries and fatalities, truck accidents have the potential to be even more severe due to the weight and size of the vehicle. This means that the occupants of the passenger vehicles are at an increased risk for fatal injuries while the truck driver may suffer only minor injuries. A personal injury attorney may help an injured person or family members who lost a loved one to a fatal truck accident seek compensation for medical costs and other damages.