DOT Bans Texting for Truckers

Everyone who has passed the commercial driver’s license test knows that large trucks should always be operated with caution. Unfortunately, studies show that truck driver error remains a common cause of major trucking accidents. One increasingly common hazard is truckers who use cell phones, PDAs, or other handheld devices while on the road. The Department of Transportation has decided to take action by announcing an immediate ban on this practice.

The DOT Texting Ban

The new texting ban is an extension of Section 390.17 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. While this section does not specifically mention cell phones or other devices, it does prohibit the use of potentially dangerous machinery or equipment while operating a commercial truck or bus. Rather than changing the law or passing new litigation, the DOT has simply announced that this regulation extends to text messaging based on their interpretation of it.

From January 26, 2010 on, truckers and bus drivers who are caught texting while driving may be fined up to $2,750. Many public safety officials have voiced approval for this measure, expressing hope that it will decrease the hazardous practice. When sending text messages or using cell phones, drivers must remove their eyes from the road, greatly increasing their chances of collisions or other accidents.

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