Call Us atTruck drivers are responsible for their large, heavy, and fast-moving vehicles, and have a legal duty to drive with reasonable care, following all traffic laws. When they do not, you or a family member could be severely injured or even killed. Their decision to focus on something other than the road can lead to disastrous consequences. A personal injury claim may help win compensation to help you recover.
Distracted driving truck accidents in Anchorage require an experienced legal team to help you fight for your rights. Speak with a seasoned truck accident attorney for the help you require.
Truck Drivers and Distractions
Truck drivers spend a lot of time on the road, which explains why it is so easy for them to get distracted. The long hours are boring and tedious, and many drivers seek to entertain themselves in ways that take their eyes off of the highway. These distractions can turn deadly if they are not careful. Distractions common in the trucking industry include:
- Eating or drinking while behind the wheel
- Drinking alcohol or doing drugs
- Using a GPS device or map to figure out where they are going
- Using a phone, including to send text messages
- Watching videos or selecting music to listen to
- Handling a pet or a passenger
- Paying attention to roadside distraction or even another crash
Of course, there are countless other distractions that may have caused the truck accident in Anchorage. A proper investigation of the case may help reveal exactly why the crash happened and why it was the driver’s fault.
Determining Liability for a Distracted Truck Driving Collision
A distracted truck driving accident may lead to liability for more than one party. The main culprit is the truck driver themselves. It is usually their actions that precipitate a distracted driving truck accident. For the most part, choosing to get on social media or watching videos while driving is the driver’s fault, without question. The driver may be individually liable for the accident.
If the driver is self-employed or an independent contractor, the claim may be against the driver and their insurance company. Insurance companies will fight back hard to avoid paying out a claim. Experienced legal counsel knows how to help with this situation.
Employer Liability
For truck drivers who are employed by a company, the company is also potentially liable. The legal concept of vicarious liability holds employers responsible for the negligent actions of their employees. This helps ensure there are sufficient assets to help compensate the injured party.
Time Limits for Filing a Distracted Driving Case
Alaska Statutes § 09.10.070 sets a two-year limitations period for personal injury cases. Distracted truck driving accidents in Anchorage will be subject to this two-year span but shorter spans may also apply against special parties.
To avoid any problems with late filing, contact an experienced attorney right away after an accident. A late filing will be permanently barred—even if it would otherwise have won substantial compensation.
Speak to an Anchorage Distracted Driving Truck Accident Attorney
Distracted driving truck accidents in Anchorage can leave you seriously injured and dealing with major financial trouble. You need a legal team that understands how to investigate these unique cases to determine the best path forward. Distracted drivers should not be allowed to hurt you and get away with it. An experienced lawyer is available to set things right.
