A distracted truck driver can cause an accident in seconds. Because of the large size and weight of commercial vehicles, these kinds of wrecks can inflict significant, lasting personal injuries on any motorist involved.

When you or a loved one has been hurt in a distracted driving truck accident in Toledo, you may be unsure of what legal recourse you have. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Charles E. Boyk Law Offices can review your potential claim and help you understand your legal rights. Reach out today to learn more.

Types of Truck Driver Distractions

Distracted driving is an extremely dangerous behavior. When someone is operating a large commercial vehicle, the consequences of a wreck have an even higher likelihood of a catastrophic outcome. Frequently reported injuries in distracted driving truck accidents range from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries and even death.

Several forms of distracted driving can lead to a truck accident. Manual distractions are one type. These involve a trucker removing their hands from the wheel such as when they are changing the dial on the vehicle’s audio system.

Sometimes, visual distractions lead to a truck crash in Toledo. Any distraction that takes a truck driver’s eyes off the road in front of them is a potential hazard, whether that is adjusting the vehicle’s navigation system or looking at something on the side of the roadway.

Cognitive distractions are another leading culprit in serious and deadly truck accidents. Talking on the phone or listening to music that is too loud are just two common examples.

Additionally, certain behaviors like texting involve all three forms of distraction, making these actions particularly dangerous when behind the wheel. Any form of distracted driving will impact the truck driver’s response time, perception, and judgment when operating the vehicle.

Assessing Legal Responsibility for a Distracted Driving Truck Collision

The truck driver is just one of multiple potential parties who could bear legal responsibility for a distracted driving wreck in Toledo. For example, if the trucking company engaged in poor training practices or required its drivers to work for periods beyond the legal limit, the truck driver’s employer may also be on the legal hook for this kind of accident.

If other factors beyond the truck driver’s control contributed to the incident, such as an equipment malfunction in the vehicle, the manufacturer of that component could be liable as well. Our team can investigate the facts and circumstances of the crash to determine who is at fault, collect evidence to support your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company for the settlement you are owed. If the insurance company refuses to play ball, we have the resources and experience to take the case to trial to fight for your rights and maximum compensation in court.

Contributory Fault

It is important to note that Ohio follows the contributory negligence standard. This means that even if an injured motorist is found to be partially responsible for their own accident and injuries, they are still able to collect compensation for their losses as long their percentage of fault is not more than the other parties to the claim.

Call a Toledo Distracted Driving Truck Accident Attorney

When you sustain injuries and losses in a distracted driving truck accident in Toledo, let the attorneys at Charles E. Boyk Law Offices help. We can review the details of your accident in a confidential and free consultation. We have a no-fee promise which means you would not owe us anything unless we successfully win compensation on your behalf. Reach out today.