Top 5 truck driver distractions that cause accidents

If you collide with a large commercial truck, the consequences could be devastating. Accidents due to truck driver negligence can cause severe injuries and even death. Truck accidents are often the result of truck driver distractions. 

Truck drivers give into a variety of potential distractions. Below are some of the most common truck driver distractions according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

1. Texting

According to data from the FMCSA, drivers who text are 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident. Texting while driving is illegal for all commercial motor vehicle drivers. Truck drivers who neglect this law put themselves and other drivers, like you, at risk. 

2. Eating and drinking

Semi-truck operators often face tight deadlines and long days of driving. This causes some drivers to only eat and drink behind the wheel instead of stopping for a meal. However, despite busy schedules, this is dangerous behavior. In fact, a recent study revealed that eating while driving can be more dangerous than talking on the phone. 

3. Using dispatch services

Drivers of 18-wheelers often rely on dispatching devices to communicate, keep logs, figure out directions and anticipate weather conditions. While these tools are useful, using them while driving can be risky. Truck drivers who use dispatching devices are 9 times more likely to be involved in a collision. 

4. Reading and writing

Big-rig drivers often take notes, read printed directions or look at maps while on the road. These activities increase the likelihood of a crash. Reading and writing take drivers’ eyes, hands and minds off the task of driving. 

5. Looking at objects outside the vehicle

Truck drivers often travel hundreds of miles per day. They may get bored and start getting distracted by outside objects unrelated to driving, such as buildings or billboards. When drivers take their eyes off of other vehicles and the road in front of them, accidents are bound to happen.