What Rules Govern Cell Phone Use While Driving a Big Rig?
While there are laws in many states addressing the use of cell phones by motorists while driving, there are even more specific truck driver cell phone rules, both at the state and federal levels. What are the basic rules? How does a violation of those rules affect your right to recover compensation for injuries suffered in a trucking accident?
Distracted Driving a Significant Problem in Texas and Across the Country
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that distracted driving was a contributing factor in more than 3,200 traffic fatalities in 2024, as well as more than 300,000 traffic-related injuries. One of the most common distractions for drivers, including long-distance truckers, is a handheld device, such as a cell phone.
The Basic Rules Governing Cell Phone Use by Truck Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued regulations that prevent certain types of activity by truck drivers while behind the wheel:
- They may not have a mobile phone or device in their hand with the intent to make a call
- They may not dial a number that requires pressing more than one button (one-touch dialing may be permitted, as well as pushing a single button to enable voice-activated dialing)
- They cannot even reach for a cell phone if it involves moving out of or leaving a seated and belted driving position
- They cannot enter, send or read any type of text message while behind the wheel
The use of Bluetooth technology, speakerphones or ear buds is permitted, but the driver’s phone must be close enough that it can be reached without leaving the seat or unbuckling the seatbelt.
What Are the Consequences of Violating the Truck Driver Cell Phone Rules?
A driver faces serious sanctions for illegal use of a handheld device, including fines of up to $2,750 and potential loss of his or her CDL. The trucking company faces fines in excess of $10,000 as well. In addition, the violation of the cell phone rules can be introduced as evidence in a civil trial to prove negligence.
Let Us Help Protect Your Rights after a Lumber or Logging Truck Accident
At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we have more than 26 years of experience protecting the rights of personal injury victims in Harlingen, McAllen, Brownsville and Houston, across Texas and nationwide, including people who have been hurt in any type of commercial trucking accident. We have a comprehensive understanding of the things that need to be done to help you maximize your recovery. We will use our considerable experience, skill, knowledge and resources to help you get the outcome you want. Free call, text or chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week–https://delapazlaw.com/.
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