According to news sources, a ban on truckers using hand-held cell phone devices while behind the wheel, initiated by The U.S. Department of Transportation, is about to begin next week and truckers can expect heavy fines if found in violation of the new ban.
Truckers can expect steep fines if they are found in violation of the new ban, with federal civil penalties expected to average about $2,750 for each offense. Although hand-free devices such as bluetooth enabled head sets will continue to be allowed, the ban covers everything from dialing, holding or even reaching out for cellphones.
Truckers may also risk losing their commercial license if they are found to have multiple offenses, while companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held devices while driving could potentially face an $11,000 fine.
As a personal injury lawyer Riverside, I have seen many instances of distracted driving cause severe devastation both to those who participate in activities such as texting while driving, as well as those who are victims of crashes caused by distracted drivers. As a Riverside car accident attorney, I encourage you to put away your phone when you drive, or invest in a hands-free device that will allow you to communicate legally.