Staying Focused for the Long Haul

Getting into an accident is never fun for any driver, but truck drivers have even more complex circumstances to consider. Whether you are driving in Longview or other parts of East Texas, or especially if you take your rig nationwide, you have a lot more you need to be aware of. While some accidents are unavoidable and could happen no matter how careful the driver is, one of the most common causes of accidents is distracted drivers. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that, in 2011, 3331 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver. And before you dismiss that number as small, you should note that in the same year, almost 400,000 people were injured in accidents that involved a distracted driver. As a result of this new anti-distracted driving regulations were announced in September 2010. These regulations are imposed against all drivers who are transporting hazardous materials, drive a commercial truck, or operate buses and rail vehicles.

Many companies that employ drivers are creating special internal policies to discourage employees from driving while distracted. These rules and regulations include banning drivers from driving while texting and restricting them from using electronic devices—like cell phones—while driving.

The goal is to reduce distraction-related accidents and fatalities as anti-drinking laws and regulations have reduced fatalities resulting from alcohol use. But the only way these regulations will work is if drivers commit to making a difference. So next time you are on Interstate 20 and you hear your cell phone alert you to a message, remember that message can wait.

If you have any questions about Texas Trucking Insurance, give Shipman Insurance a call at 866-515-7007. We will help make sure you and your rig are protected no matter where you are driving.

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