Commercial truck accidents caused by distracted driving pose severe risks on Harrisonburg's busy corridors, particularly along I-81 and Route 11 where heavy truck traffic intersects with local commuters. When truck drivers engage in activities like texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems while operating their 80,000-pound vehicles, the consequences can be catastrophic. These accidents often result in complex liability scenarios involving multiple parties - from the truck driver and trucking company to insurance providers and equipment manufacturers. Personal injury claims stemming from distracted driving truck accidents typically require extensive documentation, including electronic logging device (ELD) data, cell phone records, and dashcam footage to establish negligence. The severity of injuries in these cases, which commonly include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fatal injuries, often leads to substantial compensation claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs.

Legal Rights and Considerations: Virginia Code § 46.2-341.20:5 prohibits commercial drivers from using handheld devices while operating their vehicles, with federal regulations imposing additional restrictions through 49 CFR § 392.80. Claims must be filed within Virginia's two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. The state's modified comparative negligence system allows recovery if the plaintiff is 50% or less at fault. Commercial truck insurance typically provides minimum coverage of $750,000, though cases often involve multiple insurance policies. Compensation may include economic damages (medical expenses, lost income) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering), with punitive damages available in cases of gross negligence. An experienced Harrisonburg 18-wheeler accident lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Good accident attorneys can help with distracted driving accident claims caused by all kinds of accidents - click the links below to get information from a:

• Harrisonburg car accident attorney;
• Harrisonburg pedestrian accident attorney;
• Harrisonburg motorcycle accident lawyer;
• Harrisonburg aggressive driver accident lawyer;
• Harrisonburg bicycle accident attorney;
• Harrisonburg drunk driving accident lawyer;

Related Resources:

• Rockingham County Circuit Court
• Virginia State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement
• Sentara RMH Medical Center Trauma Services
• Virginia DMV Commercial Driver's Manual
• Virginia Trucking Association Safety Guidelines
• Harrisonburg Victim Witness Program
• Code of Virginia Transportation Title 46.2
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations

Return to the Harrisonburg 18-wheeler accident information page