The enactment of a new federal trucking regulation has officially barred truck drivers and other commercial motorists from using handheld mobile devices like cellphones while they are driving. Enacted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) on March 28, 2014, this new ban on handheld devices for truckers is focused on:
- Reducing potential distractions for truck drivers
- Minimizing the possibility of distracted driving-related accidents caused by truckers.
Specifics of the Federal Trucking Regulation Banning Handheld Devices for Truckers
As of March 28, 2014, a new federal trucking regulation has banned truckers from using handheld mobile devices while they drive.
Among the various stipulations outlined by this FMCSA ban include that truckers can no longer:
- Make calls, read or write emails or text using handheld devices while driving
- Initiate any communications that require them to push more than one button to do so
- Use handheld devices to access the internet
- Unlatch their seatbelts or get out of their seats to reach for these devices if they are driving.
In effect, this means that commercial drivers can now only use the following to make calls or otherwise engage in mobile communications:
- Headsets and Bluetooth devices
- One-touch systems
- Voice-activated systems.
Failing to comply with this new federal trucking regulation can result in expensive penalties for both truck drivers and trucking companies.
| Noncompliant Parties | First Offense | Multiple Offenses |
| Truck drivers | Fines up to $2,750 | Suspension or revocation of a commercial driver’s license |
| Trucking companies | Fines up to $11,000 | Marks on the companies’ safety records (which can have impacts on their insurance, among other things) |
Contact a Boulder Truck Accident Lawyer at Cederberg Law
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident – or if you have lost a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, contact a Boulder truck accident lawyer at Cederberg Law by calling us at 303-499-0449 or emailing us using the contact form at the side of the screen.
Since 2011, our esteemed legal professionals have been successful at securing results and compensation for people who have been seriously injured in car accidents and other types of traffic accidents. Having handled countless cases, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the law, as well as the legal experience you need, and we can fiercely defend your rights in any legal setting. In fact, while we are aggressive litigators in court, we are also skilled negotiators outside of court. This makes our trusted lawyers a formidable force that will not back down until you secure the maximum possible compensation for your injuries, expenses and losses.
At Cederberg Law, you will not be handed off to a paralegal or assistant. You will receive personal attention and professional service from an experienced lawyer who cares about you and who is dedicated to providing you with superior legal services at every stage of your case. In addition to offering free initial consults and contingency fee options, our lawyers make hospital visits to ensure that you have access to the legal support you need – whenever you need it.
