Traffic Violation Lawyer

Let’s explore five examples or factors that can cause traffic violations, including reckless driving: 

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving comes in many forms but is commonly associated with using a phone while driving. Drivers are only human, and it’s possible that they may engage in distracted driving. Besides texting and driving, other forms of distracted driving can include actions like eating or drinking while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, it can be hard to tell if a truck driver is engaging in this behavior, and often this behavior may only lead to an accident at the last moment. 

2. Driving While Under the Influence

Driving while drinking or doing drugs is very dangerous, but unfortunately, many drivers engage in this type of behavior. Driving while under the influence can slow a driver’s reaction time or make them exhibit driving behaviors they would otherwise avoid while sober. If you notice a driver swerving on the road, then they might be engaging in this behavior. You should give the driver a lot more space or even pull off to the side of the road. You may even want to call the police if their behavior seems suspicious.

3. Drowsy Driving 

Any job can be tiring after a while, but many jobs can’t compare to operating a heavy truck for 8+ hours with hardly any breaks. Unfortunately, truck drivers are often overworked and can work ten hours or more a day with very few to any breaks in between. Furthermore, driving a truck takes a lot of hard work and can be very repetitive. Even closing your eyes for less than a second on the road can lead to a deadly crash. These factors can lead to a driver violating traffic laws even if they don’t intend to. 

4. Weather or Road Conditions 

When it’s raining or snowing, it’s best to avoid the road if possible. Unfortunately, many drivers won’t have this privilege. Furthermore, not every road is made alike. For example, while most accidents happen in urban areas, the most fatal accidents will happen in rural communities, and bad road conditions are one factor why. When combined with behaviors like speeding, poor weather or road conditions can easily lead to crashes. 

5. Road Rage

Every driver can be susceptible to road rage, including truck drivers. Road rage can include anything from honking a horn, tailgating a driver, shouting profanities, and more. It’s best to give a driver plenty of room, even if it forces you to reach your destination later than expected. If a driver does exhibit road rage, then do your best not to retaliate. If necessary, you may want to pull off to the side of the road or into a parking lot, but only if there are plenty of witnesses around. Otherwise, a better strategy is to wait until cops are nearby. It’s always within your legal rights to call the police if you believe another truck is threatening your well-being. If a driver does exhibit violations, you may want to talk to a traffic violation lawyer from our friends at the May Law, LLP.