Truck drivers are held to a high standard, but they still often engage in distracted driving. Just like other drivers, truck drivers have cellphones, GPS navigation systems, as well as other technology. In addition, many truck drivers multi-task while driving. This often includes eating and drinking, and filling out paperwork in order to save time.
Due to the sheer size and weight of large commercial trucks, a single distracted driving crash can be devastating to others on the road.
Significant increase in distracted truck drivers
According to data from Truce Software, there has been a 20 percent increase in text messages sent by transportation industry drivers (including commercial truck drivers) since the time the pandemic started in March.
Since the Truce Software blocked incoming text messages, truck drivers didn't receive any text messages. The technology did show the number of texts, phone calls, cellphone notifications and app usage that would have occurred if it wasn't installed.
The average increase in cellphone use for all transportation industry drivers per 100 miles was:
- 26.4% in inbound texts
- 30.8% in inbound calls
- 26.5% in the number of times drivers tried to use apps while driving
The reason for the increase in distracted driving during the COVID-19 pandemic may be due to the lack of face-to-face communication. This could be leading more people (including truck drivers) to communicate with cellphones.
In addition, many administrators and office workers in the trucking industry are working remotely. They may be relying on mobile communication with truck drivers more than usual.
It isn't clear how many fleets are equipped with Truce Software. The data analysis only shows an increase in distracted driving among drivers of 120,000 unique vehicles. Fleets that use the technology have the authority to set and control mobile phone policies for drivers.
The technology can also take control of a driver's personal cellphone or other electronic devices inside the vehicle. It can disable functions that can cause distraction.
What should I do if I'm in a crash with a distracted truck driver?
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash with a distracted truck driver, contact a Fort Worth truck accident attorney at Coby L. Wooten, Attorney At Law, P.C.
Award-winning Texas attorney Coby L. Wooten has the legal knowledge and experience to take on negligent truck drivers, the companies that employ them and the insurance companies. He'll investigate your distracted driving truck crash. He'll obtain cellphone records, speak to witnesses, obtain surveillance footage (if available) and check social media posts of the driver who hit you.
To learn more about how attorney Wooten can help you and your family get justice and compensation, schedule your free and confidential case evaluation.