Do Truck Drivers Really Watch TV While They Are Driving?

Understanding why truck drivers get distracted can help us tackle the issue and promote safer driving in the trucking industry. Distractions often come from long hours on the road, the repetitive nature of driving, and the ease of accessing technology. These factors put the driver and everyone else sharing the road in danger.

Reasons Behind Distracted Driving Among Truck Drivers

Truck drivers often spend long hours behind the steering wheel, covering hundreds of miles each day. This can lead to monotonous conditions, particularly at night or when driving through remote areas with little variation in scenery. The mental fatigue of a trucking job can be extreme, and from these extended hours, some truck drivers seek out distractions to break up the monotony.

Hours of service regulations are designed to limit the time a truck driver can spend on the road without rest, reducing the hazard of fatigued driving. However, these regulations don’t completely eliminate the dangers of long hauls. In some cases, drivers may resort to streaming services, watching their favorite shows, or other forms of entertainment on their cell phones during their journey to stay alert and fend off boredom, which poses serious safety concerns and increases the chance of accidents. How is this possible without wifi? Some truck drivers use a satellite TV rigged to a satellite dome to pick up signals despite the dangers it poses to their driving and road safety.

This practice poses serious safety concerns. When a driver’s attention shifts from the road to a screen, even for a few seconds, the risks increase significantly. A big rig truck covering long distances in a matter of seconds can make critical driving errors, such as failing to respond to sudden changes in road conditions or the actions of other drivers. At highway speeds, taking one’s eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to severe consequences, including an accident involving another motor vehicle. A distracted driver may fail to notice changing traffic conditions or road signs, leading to potential collisions, including single-vehicle accidents if they are looking at their smartphone.

Accessibility of Technology

In today’s world, technology is more accessible than ever, even for truck drivers who spend the majority of their time on the road. Many modern truck cabs are equipped with advanced technology, including GPS systems, audio controls, playlists or music streaming services like Spotify or Pandora, communication devices like cell phones, and, in some cases, even streaming services. While these tools are intended to enhance the driving experience and ensure safety, they can also become sources of distraction.

For example, a truck driver might have a tablet mounted near the steering wheel, providing easy access to navigation tools, communication apps, or entertainment options like movies and TV shows. Although such devices are intended for use during rest periods, the temptation to use them while driving can be strong, especially during long, uneventful stretches of road. There is always a risk that drivers might use them while driving, especially during monotonous stretches of highway where fatigue and boredom become more pronounced.

Moreover, hands-free devices, often perceived as safer, can still pose risks. While a driver’s hands remain on the steering wheel, their mind might be focused on a conversation, audiobook, or podcast, leading to cognitive distractions that impair their ability to react swiftly to sudden changes in road or traffic conditions.

Work Pressure and Fatigue

The trucking industry is notorious for its demanding schedules and the pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Truck drivers are often caught between the need to comply with hours of service regulations and the pressure to deliver goods on time, which can lead to extended hours on the road and insufficient rest.

Fatigue is a considerable liability in the trucking industry, and is often a signiant factor in many driving errors and accidents involving commercial trucks. This is largely due to the fact that fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and respond to critical driving errors. Further, a lack of bright lights or bright street lights can make it easy for truck drivers to doze off while in night driving conditions. A combination with the pressure to meet deadlines, this fatigue can drive some drivers to seek distractions like watching TV as a way to stay awake. Unfortunately, this behavior exacerbates the dangers of fatigue, leading to an increased likelihood of accidents. If a shipper is fatigued it is advised by The Department of Transportation(DOT) they pull into a truck stop to rest, so they do not jeopardize the safety of themselves or others on the road.

Legal and Safety Implications of Distracted Truck Driving

The consequences of fatigue-related distractions could be severe, affecting not only the truck driver but also other road users. A driver distracted by a TV show or video might fail to notice changes in road conditions or the actions of other drivers, resulting in potentially catastrophic outcomes.

During their mandated breaks, truck drivers sometimes visit places to get food or even explore local tourist attractions. While these activities are a welcome respite from the demands of the road, they can also be a source of distraction. For example, a driver might return to the truck cab with thoughts of the tourist attraction they just visited or the meal they had, rather than focusing on the road ahead.

While taking a break is necessary for maintaining focus and reducing fatigue, drivers must fully reorient themselves to the task of driving before getting back on the road.

Types of Distractions

Distracted driving can be categorized into three main types: visual, manual, and cognitive. Each type presents unique challenges and dangers, particularly for truck drivers who must remain vigilant at all times while operating large, heavy vehicles.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. For truck drivers, this could involve checking a phone screen, reading directions, or adjusting a GPS device. Given the size and weight of semi-trucks, even a brief moment of inattention can have severe consequences. Visual distractions are particularly dangerous because they prevent the driver from noticing changes in road conditions, obstacles, or the actions of other drivers, leading to delayed reactions and increased risk of accidents.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. This can happen when a driver reaches for something in the truck cab, adjusts the radio, or uses a mobile device. In the context of watching TV while driving, a manual distraction might involve handling a remote control or adjusting the volume on a streaming service. When a driver’s hands are not on the steering wheel, their ability to control the vehicle diminishes, making it more difficult to respond to sudden changes in traffic conditions or avoid obstacles.

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not fully focused on the task of driving. This type of distraction can be particularly insidious, as it may not be immediately apparent to the driver or others around them. Watching TV or videos while driving is a prime example of a cognitive distraction, as it diverts the driver’s attention away from the road and the task of driving. Even if the driver’s hands remain on the steering wheel and their eyes are on the road, their mind may be preoccupied with what they are watching, reducing their ability to react to potential hazards.

Significant Legal and Safety Implications of Distracted Driving

Due to the size and potential danger of their vehicles, truck drivers are held to higher safety standards than typical motorists. Violations of these standards, such as distracted driving, can lead to severe consequences for both the driver and their employer.

Federal Regulations and Distracted Driving

Federal regulations, particularly those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, strictly prohibit distracted driving practices among commercial drivers. These regulations are designed to ensure that truck drivers maintain focus on the road at all times and do not engage in activities that could divert their attention.

For example, handheld mobile phones are banned while driving a commercial vehicle, and violations can result in costly fines and penalties. In some cases, drivers may lose their commercial driver’s license (CDL), which is essential for their livelihood. Additionally, trucking companies are also held accountable for the actions of their drivers and can face fines or other penalties if their drivers are found to be engaging in distracted driving.

The safety implications of distracted driving extend beyond legal penalties. A distracted driver is more likely to be involved in a collision, which can have devastating consequences. Given the size and weight of trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries or fatalities, particularly for occupants of smaller vehicles involved in the crash.

Moreover, accidents caused by distracted driving can lead to substantial financial costs, including vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and legal fees. For trucking company owners/operators, these incidents can also damage their reputation, leading to a loss of business and increased insurance premiums.

The Role of Pre-Trip Inspections in Preventing Fatigue-Related Distractions

Trucking companies prioritize safe driving practices through monitoring and enforcement strategies. Pre-trip inspections, mandated by federal regulations, are essential for identifying potential mechanical issues that could distract drivers. These inspections cover various components like steering, brakes, and parking systems.

A well-maintained truck reduces the risk of unexpected failures, allowing drivers to focus on the road and traffic signs. This practice enhances safety, reduces mental strain, and promotes a more attentive driving experience by minimizing distractions caused by vehicle concerns.

How Do Trucking Companies Monitor and Enforce Safe Driving Practices?

Commercial truck drivers may be required to attend specialized driving schools and pass skills tests to ensure competence. Many trucking companies use telematics systems to monitor driver behavior, tracking metrics like speed, braking, and mobile device use. These systems can provide real-time alerts for unsafe maneuvers and help companies identify and address risky behaviors.

Some companies also use in-cab cameras to monitor the road and the driver, capturing footage of distractions or unsafe practices. While potentially seen as invasive, these cameras are crucial for promoting safety.

Regular training sessions and safety briefings are conducted to educate drivers on the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of following hours of service regulations.

Injured by a Distracted Truck Driver?

If you or someone you know has been involved in a trucking accident as a result of negligent or fatigued truck driving, call Munley law. Our law firm has been handling personal injury claims since 1959. We have received national recognition from respected legal organizations and our peers for the work we have done in personal injury and truck accident litigation. And, we get results – our lawyers have achieved numerous multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts.

The personal injury lawyers at Munley Law care very deeply about our clients. Our compassionate truck crash attorneys and our entire staff will do everything in our power to help you during this time of need.

We know you have questions but may be nervous to contact a lawyer. That’s why our law firm offers FREE, no-obligation case evaluations to all accident victims. You can reach someone from our staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter how complicated or difficult your case may be, we will review the facts and explain what legal options are available to you. Chat live, email us, or call today.