Large trucks are already difficult to control. They’re heavy, slow to stop, and unforgiving in tight spaces. When a driver behind the wheel of a semi-truck gets distracted, those dangers multiply fast. In just a few seconds, a loaded trailer can become a deadly force.
Distractions come in many forms, such as phones, food, or dashboard controls. But on the highway, even one moment of inattention can have long-lasting consequences for everyone nearby.
Delayed Reaction Time in Heavy Vehicles
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, distractions like texting or reaching for something inside the cab reduce a trucker’s ability to react. Unlike a passenger car, an 18-wheeler doesn’t stop on a dime. When a driver isn’t fully focused, they may not notice slowed traffic, lane shifts, or sudden hazards ahead.
That delay matters. At highway speed, a loaded truck may need 200 yards or more to come to a full stop. If a driver looks away at the wrong moment, they may not regain control in time to avoid a crash.
Lane Drift and Situational Awareness
Driving safely means being fully aware of your surroundings. That includes watching blind spots, checking mirrors, and respecting nearby vehicles. A distracted truck driver who is scrolling, talking, or eating may not realize they’re drifting out of their lane or cutting off a turning car.
Some crashes happen when truckers sideswipe smaller vehicles in adjacent lanes. Others result from wide turns taken too casually or without signaling. In almost every case, the root cause is the same: divided attention.
Everyday Actions Become Risky at 70 MPH
Adjusting the air conditioning or changing the radio station might seem harmless. But in a moving truck, small distractions become big risks. A vehicle that size needs constant input and control. Letting go of the wheel, even briefly, can make the difference between maintaining lane position and causing a crash.
Passengers in smaller cars are especially vulnerable. A sideswipe from a semi can crumple a sedan and send its occupants to the hospital with spine or neck trauma.
Texting While Driving: A Common but Dangerous Habit
Typing a message takes the driver’s eyes, hands, and attention off the road. Studies show that at 55 miles per hour, reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road long enough to cover the length of a football field. For a vehicle weighing over 40 tons, that’s a serious hazard.
Federal regulations ban commercial drivers from texting while driving. Still, some do it anyway. Inattention behind the wheel remains one of the top contributors to truck-involved injury crashes in Georgia.
What to Do If You Suspect Distracted Driving Caused a Crash
- Call 911 and report the crash immediately.
- Tell the responding officer what you saw, such as phone use, swerving, or lane drifting.
- Ask witnesses if they noticed any distracted behavior.
- Photograph the truck, the road, and any visible distractions in the cab if it’s safe to do so.
- Get medical attention right away, even for minor symptoms.
- Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in truck accident cases.
If you or someone you know was injured by a distracted commercial driver, speaking with a Truck Accident Attorney in Macon GA can help you understand your rights.
FAQ
How do I prove the truck driver was distracted?
Eyewitness accounts, dashcam footage, and even black box data can support your claim. Phone records may also show if the driver was using their device during the crash.
Is distracted driving considered negligence in a personal injury case?
Yes. If distraction contributed to the crash, the driver or their employer may be held legally responsible for your injuries and losses.
What if the driver denies being distracted?
That’s common. But evidence can speak louder than words. Investigators may look at braking patterns, camera footage, and GPS logs to piece together what really happened.
Can I sue the trucking company too?
Possibly. If the company failed to train the driver properly or ignored safety violations, they may share responsibility.
What types of compensation can I recover?
Medical bills, lost income, vehicle damage, long-term rehabilitation, and pain and suffering are common categories in truck crash claims.
Is texting behind the wheel illegal for truck drivers?
Yes. Federal law prohibits texting while driving for commercial vehicle operators. Violations can support liability in an injury case.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. If you’ve been injured in a truck crash, speak with a licensed attorney in your state.
