A recent study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute showed that a truck driver is more than 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident if the driver is texting while driving. Perhaps in light of this study, and other recent studies showing the dangers of distracted driving, the U.S. Department of Transportation has officially banned texting by commercial drivers. The ban applies to all interstate drivers who carry cargo and/or passengers for hire, and also to interstate bus drivers who transport individuals for any purpose.
At the same time, more and more employers are giving their employees smart phones and expecting them to stay connected to the office at all times, even while in transit.
The blurring of work and personal time raises questions of liability when an individual is involved in an accident. If a driver crashes while texting or checking email for work purposes, should the crash be treated as an on-the-job accident? Is the employer potentially liable to third parties injured by their employees' distracted driving? Texas law and Texas courts are just beginning to grapple with these new, complicated areas. If you have been injured while texting or emailing for work, or if you were injured by someone who may have been texting or emailing on behalf of their employer, contact the personal injury attorneys of Fears | Nachawati today to receive free legal assistance. To speak with one of our Texas work accident lawyers, email us or phone us toll free at 1.866.705.7584.