Distracted Driving Truck Accident Lawyers in Rochester, NY 
When Seconds of Distraction Lead to a Lifetime of Pain 
Distracted driving is a huge problem these days, but when a truck driver takes their eyes off the road—even for just a moment—it can lead to a nightmare. 

Trucks are already dangerous because of their sheer size and weight. Add distracted driving into the mix, and the risks go through the roof. In a city like ours where major routes, like I-490 and Route 104, are packed with heavy truck traffic every day, these accidents happen more often than you’d think.

Rochester truck accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP have been providing expert legal services to commercial vehicle crash victims for decades. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by distracted driving, we can be your biggest advocates. 

What Is Distracted Driving? 

Let’s get clear on what we mean by "distracted driving." It’s any time a driver’s attention drifts away from the road. But not all distractions are the same. They usually fall into one of three categories: 

• Manual distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel. This could mean grabbing a drink, eating a sandwich, or fiddling with a GPS. Even adjusting those massive control panels can be a big deal. 
• Visual distractions: Taking your eyes off the road. Whether it’s reading a text, glancing at directions, or looking for something in the truck cab, these moments of distraction are dangerous. 
• Cognitive distractions: Letting your mind wander. Maybe it’s thinking about delivery deadlines or zoning out after hours on the road. Either way, the driver isn’t fully focused. 

Truck drivers are especially prone to distractions. They spend long hours behind the wheel, often under pressure to meet tight schedules. Texting and checking GPS devices are common culprits, but even things like reaching for a cup of coffee or changing the radio station can have deadly consequences. 

Why Truck Drivers Get Distracted 

Why do truck drivers get distracted? It’s not always as simple as texting while driving. Long hours that go past what is allowed, demanding schedules, and even the boredom of endless highways can lead to dangerous habits, like: 

• Using smartphones or electronic logging devices: Truck drivers aren’t supposed to text while driving, but some still sneak a glance at their phones. Even entering information into ELDs can be a serious distraction. 
• Eating meals on the go: When drivers are on tight deadlines, they often eat while driving to save time. Handling food might seem harmless, but it’s enough to take their attention off the road. 
• Fatigue and zoning out: Truckers work long shifts, and fatigue can creep in. When a driver’s mentally checked out, their reaction time slows. 
• Adjusting onboard systems: Tweaking the GPS, changing the radio station, or messing with the temperature controls might not sound risky, but at highway speeds, even a split second of inattention can be catastrophic. 

Here in Rochester, local traffic and road conditions add to the danger. Busy highways like I-490 and intersections near Monroe Avenue see constant congestion. And during our infamous winters, slippery roads only make things worse. 

A distracted truck driver in these conditions isn’t just putting themselves at risk—they’re endangering everyone around them. The personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, have helped countless truck accident victims fight for the compensation they deserve after a crash. 

Massive Trucks, Split-Second Mistakes, Catastrophic Consequences 

We all know trucks are massive. But what you might not realize is just how dangerous that size can be.

A fully-loaded tractor-trailer needs way more distance to stop than a car—up to 40% more, and even longer on icy roads. When a truck driver gets distracted, their reaction time slows. And that delay can lead to serious consequences. 

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is one of the leading causes of truck accidents across the country, claiming 3,308 lives in 2022. Here in New York, these crashes result in countless injuries and far too many lives lost every year. 

Breaking the Law and Shattering Lives 

Distracted driving isn’t just reckless—it’s illegal. 

New York has strict laws banning texting while driving, and commercial drivers are held to even higher standards. The FMCSA prohibits truckers from using handheld devices while driving, with hefty fines and potential license suspension for violations. 

The stakes are even higher for accident victims. Medical bills, lost wages you’re hoping to recover, and emotional trauma can add up fast. Proving that a distracted driver caused your crash is crucial. That’s where an experienced attorney comes in. 

From obtaining cellphone records to analyzing dashcam footage, our legal team at Horn Wright, LLP, will build a strong case to hold the parties responsible accountable. 

Your Next Steps Could Change Everything 

After an accident, it’s hard to think straight. But taking the right steps can make all the difference:

• Get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show up right away. Don’t take chances with your health. Get an MRI for clarity. 
• Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Get the truck driver’s license and insurance details, and don’t forget to collect witness contact info. 
• Call the police. A police report is vital for your case. It can include details about whether the driver was distracted or broke any laws. Securing a copy can help with your case. 
• Contact an attorney. Truck accident cases are complicated. An experienced Rochester personal injury lawyer will help you gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

In New York, you’ve got a limited window to file a personal injury claim. Don’t wait too long. Act quickly to protect your rights. 

We Fight for You So You Can Focus on Recovery 

Our Rochester truck accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, specialize in handling truck accident cases, including those caused by distracted driving. We’ll dig into every detail to make sure you’re treated fairly. With one of the best law firms in America by your side, you can focus on getting your life back on track. 

Contact our Rochester office today for a FREE consultation with our truck accident lawyers. You’re a step away from finding an ally that truly cares.