Is it Illegal for Truck Drivers to Text from Behind the Wheel in New Mexico?
Several years ago, our New Mexico Legislators enacted a law making it illegal to type on a mobile device, view text messages on a mobile device, or talk on a mobile device without using hands-free technology while operating a motor vehicle. That law also applies to all drivers, including truck drivers.
The dangers of texting while driving are well known, with the facts pointing to the practice being even more dangerous than operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol. But it continues to happen each day. And when someone is driving an 80,000-pound semi-truck that is 53’ long, the consequences of this illegal activity can be devastating.
At the Law Office of Samuel I. Kane, P.A., our Las Cruces, New Mexico truck accident attorneys help our clients hold the negligent 18-wheeler operators accountable for the collisions and injuries they cause by pursuing the best financial outcome available for each unique case our office represents.
Commercial Truck Drivers Are Banned from Texting and Driving Nationwide
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation commercial truck drivers are banned from texting while driving. Not unlike passenger car drivers, the ban that is in effect may not be stopping them from the practice.
And the only thing that can be more terrifying than witnessing a car’s driver text from behind the wheel is watching a truck driver take their eyes off the road to do the same.
Semi-truck accidents are very different from passenger vehicle crashes. Because of the truck’s size and weight, the injuries are often much more severe and can lead to catastrophic changes in the lives of everyone involved.
Common life-changing injuries can include, but are not limited to:
- Burn injuries
- Neck injuries
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic head injuries
- Wrongful death
Our Doña Ana County truck accident lawyers are focused on providing the solutions our clients need to hold the negligent party responsible for their injuries, so they can seek medical care and time away from work they deserve to get their lives back.
What Should I Do If I Notice a Commercial Truck Driver Texting in New Mexico?
Trucking companies and carriers often print their contact information on the actual truck, which allows other drivers to clearly identify it and report the driver for unsafe driving. Do not put yourself in jeopardy to retrieve this information. If it is readily available, record it to memory and contact the company once you have reached your destination. If you have hands-free dialing capabilities available in your vehicle, use it to contact the proper parties. There may be a formal report process you have to follow, but it will be worth it to know you the complaint is on file.
If a truck driver is recklessly operating their large vehicle, pull over and dial 911 or contact the police using your hands-free device. Tell the dispatcher where you are and provide details that will help law enforcement identify the truck. 911 is reserved for emergencies, so it is important to only call if you feel this driver is putting other drivers in real danger by recklessly operating their vehicle.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, contact our experienced truck accident lawyers New Maxico right away by calling (575) 222-0472, so we can begin researching your claim before the truck driver, trucking company, or another third-party has the opportunity to interfere with a proper investigation. Our truck accident attorneys provide free consultations and are available to speak with you today.
