The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has formally banned Texting while operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle ( CMV ). The FMCSA estimates that CMV drivers who ‘text’ while driving are over 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash, near-crash or lane deviation.
Cell Phone, Mobile Phone An electronic device used for full duplex two-way radio communications over a network of towers known as cell sites. Low-end or entry level cell phones are often referred to as ‘basic cell phones’. These are primarily used to make and receive telephone calls and send SMS messages. The device may have other functions, such as cameras, but in general are specifically communications devices. The more sophisticated ‘smartphones’ offer all of the features which are part of the ‘basic cell phone’, plus advanced computing, camera, music, Internet browsing, GPS navigation and many other applications.
The FMCSA rule expands what is normally called Texting (sending text messages between cell phones or other mobile devices) to include (but is not limited to):
Short Message Services (SMS) text messages between devices.
Creating, Sending or Reading E-mail
Browsing the Internet using a mobile or other device.
Pressing more than a single button to initiate or terminate a call using a cell phone
Engaging in any other form of electronic text entry or retrieval, for present or future communication.
The penalties for violating the rule can be up to $2,750 for drivers and up to $11,000 for employers who allow or require drivers to use a mobile device for texting while driving. Multiple convictions for violating the rule can result in disqualification of the driver and a negative impact on the company’s Safety Measurement System Results.
The message to drivers from the FMCSA: “No Call, No Text, No Ticket!”
