Everyone knows that distracted driving can have dangerous repercussions. It is even more dangerous when someone is distracted while driving a truck. The size of the truck can result in severe injuries for everyone involved, especially the occupants of nearby vehicles, and cause significant property damage.
An experienced attorney could assist you when you have experienced a distracted driving truck accident in Metairie. The effects can be severe and result in a mountain of unexpected bills. Cases like yours are frequent, and a knowledgeable truck accident attorney could represent you and argue for the compensation you deserve.
The Facts of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving includes any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. Examples include using a phone, eating, talking to passengers, or adjusting the stereo. Any distraction for a truck driver can result in catastrophic injuries, and in some cases, it could even be fatal for surrounding drivers.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Brain trauma
- Nerve damage
- Spinal injuries
- Loss of limbs
- Death
The value of your case depends on the amount of harm you sustained. There are two main types of compensation in personal injury lawsuits. Economic damages are considered “tangible” because they usually involve receipts or monetary amounts documenting the costs of their losses. Some examples include medical bills, loss of income, and repair costs.
Another type of damages is non-economic, which is subjective. These damages include concepts like mental anguish, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life. An attorney in Metairie could help you analyze the damages you can successfully claim due to your accident with a distracted truck driver.
Legal Provisions for Distracted Truck Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking. It controls the safety rules of commercial trucking, such as driver qualifications, safety procedures, equipment inspection and maintenance, and distracted driving. CMV drivers, interstate truck and bus drivers, and drivers transporting hazardous materials are prohibited from texting or using handheld mobile phones while operating their vehicles. Violations can result in fines and driver disqualifications.
Cell phones are the most common distraction when someone is behind the wheel of any motor vehicle, including trucks. Reading, writing, or sending a text while driving any vehicle is also illegal. Drivers are forbidden from using wireless communication devices to send or receive messages while behind the wheel. Fines range from $500 for a first-time offense to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Consequences can be severe due to strict local law enforcement cracking down on drivers texting while on the road. A lawyer in Metairie who is well acquainted with local and federal laws regulating truck accidents that result from distracted driving could prove the cause of the crash.
Consult an Attorney in Metairie About a Distracted Driving Truck Accident
Seeking justice after suffering from a truck driver’s negligence is important. Distracted driving truck accidents in Metairie can lead to life-changing consequences. Choose a legal advocate dedicated to fighting for your rights and financial recovery. Contact us today and schedule a confidential consultation.
