Truck accidents caused by cellphone use are a serious issue in Fort Worth. Federal rules prohibit truck drivers from using handheld devices while driving, allowing only hands-free use. Research from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows truckers are six times more likely to crash when using a handheld phone. The Texas Department of Transportation also reports that distracted driving contributes to one in five crashes, many of them fatal.
If you or a loved one was injured by a distracted truck driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. Contact a distracted truck accident lawyer in Fort Worth, TX, to understand your rights and the damages you may be able to recover.
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 by all other drivers in school zones. Adults are otherwise legally allowed to talk on their phones.
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 cellphones. 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.
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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 The Texas Law Dog attorneys 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.
