Breaking News for Culpeper and Warrenton Accident Victims

Trucking Association Voices Strong Support for Ban on Cell Phone Use

Posted on Dec 05, 2011

Last week, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued their final ruling prohibiting interstate truck and bus drivers from using handheld cell phones behind the wheel. Drivers hauling hazardous products within the state are also subject to the ban.

Studies have shown that, while the use of a cell phone increases the risk of causing an accident, reaching for a cell phone, searching for a contact, or dialing a number are even more risky.

In a recent statement, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) President and CEO Bill Graves said,”ATA’s progressive agenda includes support for bans on texting and using handheld cell phones for all drivers.”

ATA is the largest national trade association of motor carriers and a federation representing 50 affiliated state trucking associations. ATA organizes industry-related conferences and councils and is a powerful channel to express the industry’s concerns.

Graves further urged all drivers, “whether it is illegal or not,” to refrain from using their phones while driving. The commercial vehicle accident attorneys of Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas have been supporting a ban on cell phone use in trucks and buses for a long time, and we applaud the latest rules implemented by the Department of Transportation’s FMCSA.