New Rule Protects Against Truck Accidents

Just a few days ago on November 23, 2011, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced a final rule prohibiting interstate truck and bus drivers from using cell phones while operating their vehicles. “When drivers of large trucks, buses and hazardous materials take their eyes off the road for even a few seconds, the outcome can be deadly,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “I hope that this rule will save lives by helping commercial drivers stay laser-focused on safety at all times while behind the wheel.” Hopefully this new rule will cut down on truck accidents that are caused by drivers chatting on their mobile devices.

This new regulation does not allow commercial drivers to use a hand-held mobile telephone while operating a commercial truck or bus. Drivers who break this new law will face federal civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each offense. States will suspend a driver’s commercial driver’s license after two or more significant traffic violations. Commercial truck and bus companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000. Approximately four million commercial drivers would be affected by this final rule.

This follows a 2010 resolution banning text messaging while driving a commercial truck or bus. Distracted driving has been proven to be just as dangerous, if not more, than drinking and driving. The statistics are horrifying and this is a wonderful new step in the right direction to protect people in California from truck accidents.

Truck accidents are a serious matter, and anyone involved in a truck accident who has sustained serious injuries in California should contact the California truck accident attorneys today. With a 97.5% success rate, Bisnar Chase has had much experience over 30 years of service helping victims of truck accidents regain justice and their livelihood. Call us today for a free consultation.