The Real Dangers of Texting and Trucking
While you may have heard of the dangers of texting and driving regular cars, it’s vital we talk about how texting while trucking has led to a huge national rise in truck accidents.
It’s always tempting to look at your cell phone when you’re driving, especially when your commute depends on weather and traffic conditions. On a time constraint? A rainstorm can mean the difference between arriving late and showing up on time. And our phones are second nature, now; we look at them every chance we get. While you may have heard of the dangers of texting and driving regular cars, it’s vital we talk about how texting while trucking has led to a huge national rise in truck accidents. Curious about the risks? Read on.
It’s Illegal
Not only is texting while driving illegal for commercial vehicles, but so is having your phone in your hand at all. This ban was enacted in 2011 by the Department of Transportation. A violation can result in a $2,750 fine, with multiple offenses resulting in a retraction of your license. In some cases, it can even result in a truck company paying $11,000 in fines. It’s possible that you know or work for truck companies that already have this ban in place as a company policy. Everything points to the fact that truck accidents, in most cases, are far more fatal.
It’s Dangerous
When drivers text, they’re 23 times more likely to get into a car accident. In most cases, this results in a minor fender bender. In other cases, though, this can lead to fatalities. This is especially true when it comes to truck accidents, which already have an incredibly high rate of fatalities. 41,000 Americans are killed every year due to car accidents–5,000 of those involve commercial truck drivers. Of course, there are other factors that play into this statistic, like drowsiness and unfamiliar roadways. But texting is certainly not helping the problem. In order to stop fatalities, truck drivers need to put the phone down and pay attention to the road. Lives are at stake!
Make sure your truck fleet is ready for the winter with Middleton & Meads!
At Middleton & Meads, we are ready to help maintain and repair your truck fleet during your season. While many accidents can be prevented, we know that others are unavoidable. We specialize in the following repair and maintenance services:
- Frame Straightening
- Panel and Component Replacement
- Cab and Body Replacement
- Complete Truck Collision Repairs
- Custom Truck Paints
- Dent/Scratch Truck Repairs
- Windshield Replacement
If you feel your business could benefit from Middleton & Meads’ Fleet Management service or if you have any questions, please contact Middleton & Meads by calling 410-752-5588 or click here today!
The Middleton & Meads Company, based out of Baltimore, Maryland, has a long and respected history in the transportation industry. We are a family owned and operated company through four generations, celebrating over 90 years quality of truck, bus and equipment repair and service. We work with you to provide the solutions to your transportation needs!
