Defensive driving may mean no cell phones for truck operators

Over the past few years, drivers have been urged to avoid talking on their cell phones or texting when they are operating a vehicle. Now, legislators are suggesting that using these devices should be illegal for commercial operators.

Last week, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a series of suggested regulations called a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). This document outlined new proposals for drivers' working hour limitations, which have been met with some resistance from members of the industry.

However, one of the provisions that has received less attention is a rule that would forbid drivers from using cell phones - even when they are equipped with hands-free devices, Land Line reports.

Although the proposed rule outlines a ban on hand-held phone usage while driving, the agency is accepting public comment on the possibility of outlawing communication over hands-free devices. Presently, truck drivers are not permitted to compose and send text messages while they are on the road, according to the news source.

A total of 30 states were enforcing a ban on text messaging while driving for all vehicle operators as of July, according to Hands-Free Info. Professionals who have completed online driver training courses may be more likely to know state laws and avoid the consequences that can result from unsafe practices. 

Defensive driving may mean no cell phones for truck operators

Thursday, December 30th, 2010