Texting While Driving Truck Accidents in Mansfield
Unfortunately, texting while driving truck accidents in Mansfield are common. Any collision with a truck has the potential to cause injured parties long-lasting injuries or even death.
If a distracted truck driver injured you or someone you know, you might need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced truck accident attorney could explain available options and discuss strategy with you.
Mansfield Texting While Driving Laws
In 2017, Texas made it illegal for Texans to text or email while driving, as established in Texas Transportation Code §545.4251. Additionally, the law states the following:
- Drivers with learner’s permits cannot use handheld cell phones during their first six months of driving
- Minors cannot use wireless devices while driving
- All drivers cannot use any handheld devices in school zones
- School bus drivers cannot use electronic devices when children are present
Despite laws in place to deter distracted driving, some truck drivers continue to use electronic devices. Consequently, many Texans are severely injured or killed in preventable truck accidents every year. A local texting while driving truck accident attorney in Mansfield could fight to protect an injured party’s rights after the crash.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving can include visual, cognitive, or manual distractions. Texting involves all three forms because drivers shift their eyes to read their text, use their hands to type their text, and think about what to write. With the advent of smartphones, distracted driving is not limited to texting and can include:
- Following GPS directions
- Checking social media platforms
- Searching through music playlists
- Reading news articles online
- Watching videos
The above activities could reduce a driver’s awareness and reaction time on the road. Regardless of the distraction, distracted driving often results in severe injuries and fatal accidents. Accordingly, a police officer could pull a driver over for committing any of these acts.
A driver could avoid a penalty for engaging in any of these activities based on their local area’s ordinances. For instance, Austin has prohibited the use of all electronic handheld devices while driving. A prudent attorney experienced in texting while driving truck accidents in Mansfield could help victims harmed in accidents caused by distracted drivers.
Legal Penalties for Truck Collisions
Depending on the driver’s number of offenses, a driver could face a fine between $25 to $200. A driver could face a $4,000 fine and up to seven years behind bars if their negligence resulted in someone else’s injuries or death.
Aside from these criminal penalties, injured parties could file civil claims to demand economic and non-economic damages for the harm they suffered. These damages can include medical costs, pain, and suffering, and lost earnings.
An injured party must seek the compensation they are entitled to better cope with their recovery process. An attorney competent in texting while driving truck accidents in Mansfield could negotiate diligently on an injured party’s behalf during settlement talks.
Speak to a Texting While Driving Truck Accident Attorney in Mansfield Today
Injured parties often face financial difficulties because of mounting medical bills and an inability to work. Nonetheless, insurance companies will often stall the settlement negotiation process to pressure injured parties to settle for low offers.
A skilled texting while driving truck accident lawyer in Mansfield could promptly answer your legal questions and negotiate on your behalf. Contact our firm today to consult with one of our attorneys about how to proceed with your case.