One hot topic of discussion these days is cell phone use while driving. There have been many laws proposed and passed in an effort to combat the issue and prevent Houston truck accidents. Recently, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) proposed a ban to prohibit the use of cellular phones by all commercial drivers while operating a commercial vehicle.
This topic seems to get people on both sides heated up. On one side, supporters believe it’s important to keep people safe and free from possible injury. This would include prohibiting the use of mobile phones. On the truck driver’s side, however, this proposed law could greatly affect the trucker’s psychological health. Truck drivers spend a great deal of time out on the road with no one around to talk to or interact with. They rely on cell phones to talk to loved ones back home while they are away. If the drivers were forced to withhold their phone calls, it could make any long distance drive very difficult.
It’s very important for a driver to keep their concentration on the road and to pay attention to possible changes of the road conditions. However, prohibiting a driver from making a phone call to a sick child or other important matter back home could possibly take away a large portion of their much-needed concentration. This could put other drivers at risk of a serious accident.
Several people have voiced their opinions on this matter – both for commercial drivers and other motorists. There have been several studies that indicate the dangers of using cell phones while driving, including comparing it to the effect of being under the influence. Only time will tell how far the issue will be taken and enforced.
Being injured by a careless driver who was too busy texting to drive can be very painful and frustrating. Contact a Houston truck accident attorney today to see how you can get the help you need during this trying time.