Everyone is generally aware that texting while driving isn’t a wise decision, but studies show even more shocking results. Truckers who drive distracted are over 23 times more likely to be involved in a critical accident.
The Trucking Truth blog recently shared that stat along with the new distracted driving regulations (and penalties) released by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
As Brett Aquila writes, the FMCSA defines “distracted driving” very simply: no dialing, no texting, no reading, even no holding or reaching.
Use of any device (including dispatcher radios) must be hands-free. Penalties for truckers who drive distracted exist not only for the driver, but for the employer as well. Employers who know or allow a driver to use a device that requires hands receive a fine over $10,000. Drivers receive a fined for thousands, and disqualified for a time.
While the financial penalties are significant, hurting yourself or another person is much worse. So as hard as it can be to keep the phone down, it’s safe to say it’s an all-around better decision for everyone on the road.
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