Texting Ban for Truckers and Bus Drivers

Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia

Drivers of trucks, buses, and tractor-trailers can no longer text while driving. The Department of Transportation has enacted a law prohibiting texting for trucks and buses in an attempt to curb distracted driving and improve highway safety.

The law carries stiff penalties for noncompliance. Truck and bus drivers who are caught texting while driving may face civil or criminal penalties which include a $2,750 fine. So far, the new law has generated a great deal of support from the general population as well as the trucking industry.

The Dangers of Texting while Driving

As we become increasingly reliant on hand-held electronic devices in our daily lives, distracted driving has emerged as one of the leading causes of auto and truck accidents on our nation’s roads. Research from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration indicates that texting while driving results in a 20 times greater likelihood of getting into an accident.

According to the study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, drivers take their eyes off the road for approximately 4.6 out of every 6 seconds while texting. When driving at 55 mph, this equates to driving the length of a football field without looking at the road.

Furthermore, texting while driving often results in other unsafe driving practices, such as drivers steering with their knees in order to free up their hands to text. The end result is a much greater likelihood of an accident. When a vehicle as large as a tractor-trailer is involved, the injuries suffered are often catastrophic.

Experienced Truck Accident Representation

If you have been injured in a tractor-trailer accident caused by a distracted driver, the Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have handled many truck accident claims, and we have a strong grasp on both local and federal trucking laws. Over the years, we have earned several multi-million dollar truck accident settlements for injured victims, helping them move on with their lives.

Please contact our Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyers today to schedule your free initial consultation. We serve clients in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

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