Picture this: a commercial truck barrels down the highway, the driver momentarily glancing at their phone. In that brief distraction, lives can change forever. Distracted driving significantly impacts commercial vehicle accident claims because it directly influences liability. Proving that distraction played a role in the accident can strengthen your case, as it highlights the negligence of the commercial driver or their employer.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident due to distracted driving, Hollis Law Firm can help. Our experienced team understands the complexities of these cases and is committed to helping clients pursue the compensation they deserve. Contact us for personalized legal support tailored to your situation.
The Role of Distracted Driving in Determining Liability
Distracted driving is a leading cause of commercial vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone. In commercial vehicle accidents, establishing that a driver was distracted can significantly influence liability. When a driver fails to maintain focus, it often leads to rear-end collisions, lane departures, or missed traffic signals—clear indicators of negligence.
In these cases, liability doesn’t just rest on the driver. Employers may also be held accountable if they failed to enforce proper safety protocols or encouraged behaviors that led to distraction. This shared responsibility can affect the outcome of a claim, making it essential to gather strong evidence of distracted driving.
Types of Distractions That Impact Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Distractions aren’t limited to just texting while driving. They fall into three main categories:
- Visual distractions: Taking eyes off the road, like checking a GPS or reading a message
- Manual distractions: Removing hands from the wheel, such as eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio
- Cognitive distractions: Taking the mind off driving, like daydreaming or engaging in deep conversations
Recognizing these distractions helps build a strong case by identifying specific negligent behaviors. Proving that any of these distractions contributed to an accident can significantly impact the claim’s outcome.
How Evidence of Distracted Driving Strengthens Your Claim
Evidence is key in commercial vehicle accident claims. Proving distracted driving often involves:
- Cell phone records: To show calls, texts, or data usage at the time of the accident
- Dashcam footage: Capturing real-time driver behavior
- Witness testimonies: Statements from those who saw the driver distracted
- Accident reconstruction reports: Expert analyses to demonstrate how distraction caused the crash
Gathering this evidence can make a substantial difference in your case. It helps establish negligence, making it easier to hold the responsible parties accountable.
The Impact of Distracted Driving on Compensation
Distracted driving doesn’t just affect liability; it also influences the compensation you may receive. If it’s proven that the commercial driver was distracted, you might be entitled to:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for current and future healthcare costs
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to the accident
- Pain and suffering: Acknowledgment of emotional and physical distress
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence, courts may award additional damages to punish the responsible party
The stronger your evidence of distracted driving, the higher your chances of securing fair compensation.
Why Commercial Vehicle Distracted Driving Cases Are More Complex
Claims involving commercial vehicles are often more complicated than standard car accidents. This complexity arises from factors like:
- Multiple parties involved: Including the driver, employer, and insurance companies
- Federal regulations: Commercial drivers must adhere to strict safety rules, and violations can influence your claim
- Higher insurance limits: Commercial policies often have larger coverage amounts, leading to more aggressive defense tactics
These factors make it essential to have legal representation that understands the intricacies of commercial vehicle accident claims.
Contact a Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney
Accidents involving commercial vehicles can result in severe injuries and life-altering consequences. If distracted driving played a role in your accident, you deserve to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek compensation for your losses.
At Hollis Law Firm, our team is dedicated to representing clients with integrity and determination. We understand the complexities of commercial vehicle accident claims and are committed to helping you pursue justice. Contact us today at (800) 701-3672 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney.
