Putting an End to Distracted Driving
The stakes for fleet drivers using hand-held cell phone devices while driving just got higher. This article outlines the regulations and implications from a Department of Transportation (DOT) final rule on distracted driving. Ray LaHood, U.S. Transportation Secretary, has announced a final rule that will hopefully put an end to distracted driving in fleet-based industries. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA ) have issued a joint bill that will prohibit interstate truck drivers and bus drivers from using hand-held cell phones while operating their vehicles.
As a result of this final rule, drivers who violate the rules will face a $2,750 penalty for each offense and disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for multiple offenses. It is not just drivers that will face hefty penalties for violating the hand-held cell phone ban: commercial truck and bus companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000.
According to Norm Littler, VP, regulatory & industry affairs, for the American Bus Association, the best way for carriers to protect themselves in the event of an incident is by having a clear and concise written rule in place which states the use of hand-held cell phones and texting is against company policy and make sure all drivers have read and signed off on this policy. Also, Littler recommends that carriers frequently revisit and adjust existing policies.
You can access the final hand-held cell phone ban rule from the DOT here. To learn more about technology options to prevent distracted driving, click here.
