US Department of Transportation Bans Truck Drivers Using Cell Phones

The US Department of Transportation (US DoT) ruled that interstate commercial truck drivers may no longer use cell phones or handheld devices of any kind, according to sources. Violators can face up to $2,750 fines for each instance, and repeat offenders risk losing their commercial vehicle licenses. Companies who fail to enforce the regulation for drivers face fines up to $11,000.

US DoT research shows that drivers reaching for an object—such as a phone—are three times more likely to cause a truck accident. When using the phone, the chances increase to 6 times as likely.

“This final rule represents a giant leap for safety,” said US DoT administrator Anne Ferro. “It’s just too dangerous for drivers to use a hand-held cell phone while operating a commercial vehicle. Lives are at stake.”

Now that the rule is final, we can all agree that it is a step in the right direction.

Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego wrongful death attorney.