CMV texting while driving can be tempting as drivers often have to communicate with dispatchers or other drivers while on the road. However, CMV driving while texting can occur hefty fines because it is dangerous and can distract drivers while on the road.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) has implemented rules that “restricts the use of all hand-held mobile devices by drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs)”. This rule restricts CMV drivers both from holding a mobile device to make calls and to text by pressing more than one button, instead, CMV drivers are required to use hands-free devices for communication while driving. This is because the FMCSA found that the risk of being in a crash or an unsafe condition (driving over the yellow line or nearly getting into a crash) is six times greater for CMV drivers using a mobile device.
Fines and Penalties
Violations of the FMCSA rule that restricts CMV drivers from calling or texting with more than one dial can result in penalties of up to $2,750 for drivers and up to $11,000 for employees who require or even allow drivers to use handheld devices while driving their vehicle.
Furthermore, multiple violations of this rule can result in driver disqualification by the FMSCA. Because this is a serious violation of state traffic laws, multiple violations can result in a complete disqualification of CMV Commercial Drivers License. So for the sake of safety, and your business, follow the rules and replace your hand-held mobile devices. Fortunately, there are hands-free, one-touch functionality devices that are easy to use and comply with the FMCSA rules.
How Does it Work?
In order to comply with this rule, all communication devices must be located where the driver can initiate, answer, or end a call by pressing only one button. Luckily, Peak PTT radios Over Cellular (POC) have single-touch access for group-wide communication across the country.
- POC provides DOT-complaint solutions to prevent distracted driving while allowing dispatchers and individuals to communicate and send safety alerts, route changes, and other important information with the press of just one button.
- Drivers can initiate two-way phone calls with the press of a single button, making the roads much safer for them and everyone else on the road.
Non-compliance with the FMSCA policy isn’t just breaking the rules, it violates state driving laws, and puts everyone at a higher risk on the road. It’s in the interest of your business to follow comply with these rules and keep your employees, along with other drivers, as safe as possible.
Look to Peak PTT for the highest quality and durable FMSCA compliant push to talk two way radio devices for the sake of your business, and everyone else on the road.