Truck accidents caused by cellphone use often occur in Fort Worth. For example, in 2017, a truck driver killed 13 people due to texting while driving. Truck drivers are not allowed to use handheld devices behind the wheel. Truckers are only allowed to use hands-free devices while their vehicle is in motion. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has conducted research that shows that truckers are six times more likely to be involved in a crash if they use a handheld phone.
According to the Texas DOT, distracted driving is a cause in one out of every five car crashes and is the cause of many deadly car crashes. This law helps prevent texting behind the wheel because it creates a fine for texting while driving and an even harsher fine if the texting causes an accident.
If you or a loved one were injured due to a negligent truck driver, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Speak to a skilled truck accident lawyer to learn about the various types of damages you may be eligible to recover, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. It is best to reach out to a knowledgeable lawyer to learn about the nuances of Fort Worth truck accidents involving cellphone cases.
Rules Regulating the Use of Cellphones While Driving
In the State of Texas, disobeying the law is prima facie evidence of liability. The distracted driver is likely responsible for the accident unless they can prove otherwise. Texas law only prohibits the use of handheld phones by novice drivers and for all other drivers in school zones. Adults are otherwise legally allowed to talk on their phones.
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Texting While Driving
Texting while driving became illegal in September of 2017 after a long-fought battle by safety advocates. However, close to a hundred Texas cities have passed ordinances that place stricter regulations on texting, the use of electronic devices, and the use of a cellphone. The stricter of the state or local law prevails. The fact that the driver did not realize the law was more prohibitive or that they were entering another county is not a valid defense. The FMCSA also imposes regulations on the use of handheld phones on commercial truck drivers but allows hands-free phones as long as they do not have to push more than one button or maneuver out of their seat to grab the phone. The FMCSA prohibits texting and using electronic devices while operating a tractor-trailer.
The law does not stop people from using their phones for other activities while operating a vehicle. Drivers can browse their contacts, make calls with a hands-free device, use their cellphone for maps or navigation, use it as a music player, and make 911 calls.
Fort Worth Driver on Cellphone Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Speak With a Fort Worth Truck Accident Attorney
Throughout Texas, texting is prohibited while operating a motor vehicle. This includes not only reading and writing text messages but also reading or writing any other text messages on a phone. That means that posting on social media or checking emails is also illegal while behind the wheel.
If you were injured in a tractor-trailer collision due to a distracted truck driver, you have legal options. Let a knowledgeable truck accident attorney help you recover compensation for your damages. Call today to learn about Fort Worth truck accidents involving cellphones and how the law could affect your case.
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