 |
| Photo Credit |
Truck
drivers have dangerous and difficult jobs. They maneuver through
traffic constantly and often create dangers on their own account.
They can be particularly dangerous on the open highway, as many of
them are on short deadlines for just-in-time delivery or attempting
to earn an early delivery bonus. Additionally, many trucks have blind
spots for vehicles that are trailing them and can often lose track of
a vehicle that is following too closely. These situations can easily
be the reason for dangerous lane swapping while in transit, many
times at illegal speeds. This is a list of the various problems for
over-the-road truckers.
Dangerous Tractor Trailer Rigs
Dangerous Tractor Trailer Rigs
Semis are a real danger
for other vehicle operators negotiating traffic, especially those in
compact cars. It really does not take a major distraction to cause a
truck driver to lose focus. The mere size of a big rig makes them the
most dangerous vehicle on the road. When this is coupled with other
extenuating circumstances the result can be deadly. The highway is
full of constant distractions that are occurring at high speeds.
Truckers that do not drive defensively or generally operate the
vehicle in an inconsiderate manner are jeopardizing the lives of
everyone on the highway, including themselves.
Deadlines and the Dog Law
Deadlines and the Dog Law
The dog law is the
Department of Transportation (DOT) limiting of the number of hours
per day that a truck driver can operate the commercial vehicle. The
limit is set at 11 hours and 59 minutes and the driver's registry log
must accurately reflect the time schedule. This danger of
over-working the driver is not quite as bad as it once was, as many
transportation companies have installed computerized governors on the
trucks and can shut the truck down from the dispatcher's office.Regardless
of whether you ask one of the lawyers in your area or a truck
accident lawyer Atlanta based, they will undoubtedly agree that
accidents caused by lack of sleep is a common problem for big rig
drivers.
Exploiting Technology and the Log Book
Modern technology allows
the dispatcher to maintain the location of all truck drivers in real
time. However, many companies do not use the technology for safety's
sake, opting to exploit the system for more profit. Truck drivers
have routinely kept two log books for many years, so one is for the
company and the other doctored book is for the DOT. This is an
illegal system, but it has been a trick of the trade for many years.
The end result is a lack of sleep, which affects alertness.
Cell Phones and Radios
Cell Phones and Radios
Many contemporary big
rigs are essentially a home on wheels for the driver. They can
contain laptop computers and fully customized entertainment systems
along with sleeping quarters. Many drivers routinely eat while
driving, which is also a serious driving hazard. Even smoking
cigarettes while driving can be dangerous. The popularity of cell
phones has practically eliminated the need for CB radios, though they
are still utilized. Of course, texting while driving is never a good
practice and illegal in many locations. Regardless, most drivers have
at least one cell phone in the truck at all times for contacting the
home office or other drivers. Drivers still network while in transit
in an effort to dodge radar checkpoints, which can also be a
distraction.
Drivers that are determined negligent in an accident could be charged for any violation that is provable. Many distractions are not necessarily illegal, but can contribute to fault in a wreck. The real problem with big rigs is they are often involved in tragic and deadly accidents with multiple cars. The inability to stop in a short distance creates another potential hazard for distraction. Accidents involving trucks can be very complicated cases and the transportation and insurance companies will defend most cases strongly to limit the possibility of punitive damages. Additionally, the driver is also subject to civil tort claims in some instances.
Drivers that are determined negligent in an accident could be charged for any violation that is provable. Many distractions are not necessarily illegal, but can contribute to fault in a wreck. The real problem with big rigs is they are often involved in tragic and deadly accidents with multiple cars. The inability to stop in a short distance creates another potential hazard for distraction. Accidents involving trucks can be very complicated cases and the transportation and insurance companies will defend most cases strongly to limit the possibility of punitive damages. Additionally, the driver is also subject to civil tort claims in some instances.
Author Bio:
As a blogger, Jeanetta
Champion, shares this article to promote defensive driving. Stokes &
Kopitsky, P.A., who provide truck
accident lawyer Atlanta based, is
a recognized leader in personal injury law. The firm has successfully
tried many types of cases involving tractor-trailer collisions,
recovering upwards of 10 million dollars in verdicts for clients in
Georgia. Their track record demonstrates their commitment to
assisting victims injured by negligent tractor-trailer drivers
and their employers.