In January 2010, the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that it was implementing a ban that would prohibit commercial truckers from texting behind the wheel. The DOT considers texting while driving a dangerous type of distracted driving that puts others on the road in danger. The purpose of the ban is to make the roads safe for travel.
The Danger of Texting While Driving
Research conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that the average driver takes his or her eyes off the road for approximately 4.6 seconds out of every 6 seconds while sending or receiving a text message. The FMCSA estimates that if a driver is traveling at 55 miles per hour, the distance traveled without looking is equivalent to the length of a football field. Because a driver who texts while driving must take their eyes off the road, their chance of getting into an accident is 20 times greater than for a non-distracted driver.
What Happens Next?
After imposing an interim texting ban on truckers for two months, the DOT announced in March 2010 that it planned to make the rule permanent. Besides texting, the rule would apply to updating phone contacts, adding appointments, and using an electronic calculator. The rule would not ban other behaviors, such as using a global positioning system or a navigation system, or entering a telephone number in order to make a call.
State and local law enforcement agencies would be responsible for enforcing the federal texting ban on commercial truckers. Within three years of its enactment, every state would be required to begin enforcing the ban. The rule would apply to drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles for purposes of interstate commerce. A violation could result in a federal fine and a temporary suspension of the operator’s commercial-vehicle license.
Who Can Help?
Preventing truckers from texting while driving will make the roads safer. Because commercial trucks are bigger and heavier than passenger vehicles, a collision with a truck can result in serious injuries, or even death. If you or a loved one have been involved in a Texas truck wreck, it is important to find out whether you have a legal claim. Contact an experienced Houston truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Call the Law Office of Denena & Points at 713-807-9500 or at 877-307-9500 for a free consultation.